What makes it different from others?

Such a frustrating disappointment

One of the best films i have seen

Absolutely brilliant

I first saw this film on (analog!) satellite TV some 10 to 12 years ago. I distinctly recall at least one scene from that time that is missing in the commercial releases.The one of which I am certain was a courtroom scene where Villefort confronts his son who publicly identifies himself as such. This seems to have been replaced by a brief scene in which Dantes tells V. about the son being in prison at the same time he reveals his true identity.I also recollect a more lengthy scene with the young Dantes in Marseilles and another one containing conversations between Dantes and Faria in Château D'If, although I may be confusing these with other productions of this novel.Has anyone else noticed this? I would very much like to have a copy of the complete production, if one is actually available.

Gérard Depardieu has lavished much care and attention to detail on this production of the famous Dumas story. He is most impressive as Edmund Dantes who is falsely imprisoned by his "friends" in the awful Château d'If for some 18 years, then escapes, finds a vast fortune, and as the mysterious Count takes revenge upon those who betrayed him in a very complex series of intrigues. Bearing in mind the great length of the original novel, simplification of the sub plots are inevitable in any screen version, although the extended running time of this TV series allows much of the text to be brought to the screen faithfully. Using some quite stunning set pieces and beautiful scenes to background the action, the cast perform exceedingly well, dominated by Depardieu's portrayal of Monti Cristo. Although a rather overweight Count, his strength as an actor overcomes this minor flaw, and certainly its unlikely we'll see a better performance of the role for years to come. If you have the patience to view the extended version here, it is a rewarding and finally well crafted adaption of a most difficult subject.

This is not a series about a man working to achieve his revenge - it is the story of what happens to a man as he takes his revenge. The opposition is not his adversaries, but the count's own soul. Combined with the wonderful atmosphere and grandiose acting, it makes for an unusual, fairy-tale-like story. I love it, but you may not.

This movie conforms to the book and manages to capture the true story. Revenge ... Girard Depardieu is wonderful and I have watched it twice (subtitles, no less!!) It is well worth the effort. Reading the book first was definitely helpful.