The Keeper: The Legend of Omar Khayyam

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The Keeper: The Legend of Omar Khayyam ★★ 2005 (PG)

Account of 11th century poet-astronomer Omar Khayyam and his love triangle in 11th century Persia. First-time director Mashayekh intercuts an autobiographical tale of 12-year-old Kkayyam descendent Kamran (Echahly) in modern Houston. Respectable labor of love is an indie that looks quite epic. Unfortunately, the movie comes off more like an after-school special with a flair for bright costumes. Surprise cameo from Vanessa Redgrave sparks things only for as long as she's on the screen. 95m/C DVD . US Bruno Lastra, Moritz Bleibtreu, Rade Serbedzija, Vanessa Redgrave, C. Thomas Howell, Diane Baker, Christopher Simpson, Adam Echahly, Marie Espinosa; D: Kayvan Mashayekh; W: Kayvan Mashayekh, Belle Avery; C: Dusan Joksimovic, Matt Cantrell; M: Elton Ahi.