Released in 2010, The Tourist stands as a captivating blend of romance, thriller, and comedy, featuring the magnetic pairing of Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie. Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, known for his Oscar-winning The Lives of Others, this film offers a visually stunning journey through Paris and Venice, anchored by the undeniable star power of its leads. Despite mixed critical reception, The Tourist has earned a cult following for its charm, picturesque settings, and the unique chemistry between Depp and Jolie. As of June 24, 2025, this movie remains a compelling watch, especially for fans eager to see two Hollywood icons share the screen in a lighthearted yet suspenseful narrative. With a budget of $100 million and a global gross of $278 million, it’s a cinematic experience that deserves at least one viewing.

The Plot Unfolds

The Tourist follows Elise Clifton-Ward (Angelina Jolie), a enigmatic British woman under surveillance by Scotland Yard and French police due to her connection with Alexander Pearce, a fugitive who owes £744 million in taxes and stole $2.3 billion from a mobster, Reginald Shaw. Pearce, believed to have altered his appearance with plastic surgery, sends Elise a letter instructing her to board a train to Venice, select a man matching his height and build, and convince authorities he is Pearce. On the train, she chooses Frank Tupelo (Johnny Depp), a mild-mannered American math teacher from Wisconsin vacationing in Europe to heal from a personal loss. What begins as a playful flirtation spirals into a dangerous game as Frank becomes the target of police, Interpol, and Shaw’s Russian thugs, who all mistake him for Pearce.

The story unfolds with Elise and Frank evading capture across Venice’s canals and rooftops, blending romance with thrilling chases. A twist reveals Frank is Pearce, having undergone surgery to reunite with Elise, though the resolution—where he settles his debts with a check—has drawn criticism for its simplicity. This narrative, a remake of the 2005 French film Anthony Zimmer, combines Hitchcockian intrigue with a glossy Hollywood sheen, making it a unique entry in the spy-comedy genre.

The Stellar Cast

Jolie’s portrayal of Elise is a masterclass in elegance and mystery. With her poised demeanor and stunning wardrobe, she commands every scene, embodying a femme fatale who navigates danger with grace. Her performance earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy, reflecting her ability to balance allure with depth. Depp, meanwhile, steps into the role of Frank with a departure from his eccentric characters like Captain Jack Sparrow. Playing an unassuming everyman, he brings subtle humor and charm, earning a Best Actor nomination at the same awards. Their on-screen dynamic, though not always fiery, offers a refreshing contrast to their usual dramatic roles.

Supporting actors enhance the film’s appeal. Paul Bettany shines as Inspector John Acheson, the relentless Scotland Yard officer, while Timothy Dalton adds gravitas as Chief Inspector Jones. Steven Berkoff’s menacing Shaw and Rufus Sewell’s cryptic Englishman further enrich the ensemble, though the focus remains on Depp and Jolie. Behind-the-scenes, the project saw a turbulent pre-production with multiple directors and leads, including Lasse Hallström and Tom Cruise, before Henckel von Donnersmarck and Depp finalized the cast, filming in 58 days across Paris and Venice.

Critical Reception and Controversy

The Tourist received a tepid response from critics, holding a 20% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 37/100 on Metacritic, with reviews citing a muddled plot and lack of chemistry between the leads. Roger Ebert gave it two stars, noting the need for “style and grace” that the film missed, while Peter Travers of Rolling Stone called it one of the worst films of 2010. Yet, the German press and some critics, like Stephanie Zacharek, praised its visual beauty and included it among 2010’s best. Audiences, however, were kinder, awarding it a “B” CinemaScore, appreciating its escapist charm.

The film’s Golden Globe nominations—Best Musical or Comedy, Best Actor, and Best Actress—sparked debate, as it was initially pitched as a thriller. Henckel von Donnersmarck insisted it was a “travel romance with thriller elements,” later opting for comedy classification, leading to mockery from host Ricky Gervais. This categorization controversy, coupled with allegations of vote-buying by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, added to the film’s polarizing legacy. Still, its Teen Choice and People’s Choice Awards suggest a public affection that critics overlooked.

Visual Splendor and Production

One of The Tourist’s strongest assets is its cinematography, showcasing Venice’s canals and Paris’s streets with breathtaking detail. Filmed entirely in Europe, the movie doubles as a love letter to these cities, with John Seale’s lush visuals and Colleen Atwood’s glamorous costumes elevating the experience. The production’s short timeline—rewritten and shot in weeks—reflects Henckel von Donnersmarck’s ambition to blend arthouse sensibilities with commercial appeal, though some argue this haste contributed to its narrative flaws.

The film’s score by James Newton Howard complements the romantic and suspenseful tones, while the lavish hotel suites and boat chases offer a glossy escape. Fans on Amazon and other platforms laud the “eye candy” of Jolie’s fashion and Venice’s backdrop, with some calling it a “refreshing” throwback to classic Hollywood. This visual richness makes it a treat for travel and style enthusiasts, even if the plot stumbles.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The Tourist arrived at a pivotal moment for both stars. Jolie, fresh from Salt, and Depp, riding high from Pirates of the Caribbean, brought massive draw, though their collaboration didn’t ignite the expected chemistry. Posts on X highlight nostalgia for their pairing, with fans recalling behind-the-scenes camaraderie and Jolie’s praise of Depp’s humor. The film’s timing, amid Depp’s later legal battles and Jolie’s humanitarian focus, adds a layer of intrigue to their on-screen reunion.

The movie’s legacy is mixed but enduring. It grossed $278 million against its $100 million budget, proving its commercial viability despite critical pans. For some, it’s a “frothy diversion” ideal for unwinding, while others see it as a missed opportunity for a Hitchcockian classic. Its availability on Netflix and Blu-ray keeps it accessible, encouraging repeat viewings where its flaws become forgivable charms.

Why You Should Watch

The Tourist is worth watching for its star power alone. Depp and Jolie, despite uneven chemistry, deliver moments of wit and glamour that shine through the plot’s predictability. The film’s stunning locales offer a virtual tour of Venice, while its lighthearted tone provides a break from heavier cinema. Whether you’re a fan of the leads or curious about a maligned gem, this movie rewards with its visual feast and occasional twists. At 103 minutes, it’s a manageable commitment that promises entertainment, if not perfection.

As of 10:58 AM +07 on June 24, 2025, The Tourist remains a polarizing yet intriguing chapter in Depp and Jolie’s careers. Its blend of romance, suspense, and comedy, framed by Europe’s beauty, makes it a must-watch at least once—a cinematic postcard that lingers despite its imperfections.