A supernatural mystery with Roman Polanski's apparent inability at showing anything overtly supernatural while constantly suggesting same. If you're looking for something where the demons break loose and people turn into hideous creatures then don't waste your money. I'll put it this way: the actual gate doesn't even open until the very last moment before end credits roll.

As a mystery it's rather good, though I think two hours of the dirtier areas of Europe is quite enough for me; makes me glad I live in the USA. A mystery revolving around a book, with the clues there for the viewer to find along with johnny Depp's character. Watch for little things that are suggested but not overtly pointed to as the hunt goes on for a book that could,... well, they don't really say what does happen if the book is used.

In Fact, much is left unabswered and unexplained at the end, the parts I would be most interested in start just when the film leaves off. What's beyond the Ninth Gate, what does one get, who exactly is the mysterious young woman? Don't look for answers in this film, you won't get them.

Thought provoking? Perhaps, especially since you have to provide the final answers yourself. Annoying? Definitely, at least at the end. worth your matinee money? Maybe; this one's a borderline call here.