Original Sin (2001) is a romantic mystery about a man named Luis who falls in love with a mysterious woman named Julia. But Julia has secrets—she isn’t who she says! As Luis discovers the truth, danger and passion mix in a thrilling game of love and lies. With twists and surprises, it’s like a puzzle where love might be the biggest trick of all!

Original Sin
Runtime: 1 Hours 52 Minutes
Audience Rating: 6.1/10
Critics Rating: 1.3/10
Genre: Mystery & Thriller, Drama and Romance
Rating: R
Release Date: 03 August 2001
OTT Release Date: 2008-09-16
Original Language: English
Production House: Hyde Park Entertainment, Via Rosa Productions, DiNovi Pictures, Metro Goldwyn Mayer, Intermedia Films and Epsilon Motion Pictures
Distributor: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Page Last Updated On: 27 July 2025
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Movie Review: Original Sin (2001)
Original Sin is a romantic thriller movie released in 2001, starring Angelina Jolie and Antonio Banderas. The story is set in the late 1800s in Cuba and follows a wealthy coffee merchant named Luis Vargas (played by Banderas) who falls in love with a mysterious woman named Julia Russell (played by Jolie). The movie is full of passion, secrets, and danger, making it an exciting watch for those who enjoy love stories with a dark twist.
The Story
Luis Vargas is a successful businessman who has never been married. He decides to find a wife through letters and eventually agrees to marry a woman named Julia, whom he has never met. When Julia arrives in Cuba, Luis is instantly charmed by her beauty and elegance. They quickly fall in love and get married. However, things take a strange turn when Luis discovers that Julia is not who she claims to be.
As the story unfolds, Luis learns shocking truths about Julia’s past. She is involved in dangerous schemes, and her real identity is a mystery. The more Luis tries to uncover the truth, the deeper he gets into trouble. The movie becomes a thrilling chase between love and betrayal, with many unexpected twists.
The Acting
Angelina Jolie and Antonio Banderas deliver strong performances in this movie. Jolie plays Julia with a mix of charm and mystery, making it hard to tell whether she is a victim or a villain. Banderas, as Luis, perfectly portrays a man torn between love and suspicion. Their chemistry on screen is intense, making their love story feel real and dramatic.
The Mood and Setting
The movie is set in Cuba, and the beautiful scenery adds to the romantic yet mysterious atmosphere. The costumes and music also help create a sense of old-world charm. However, beneath the beauty, there is always a feeling of danger, which keeps the audience guessing what will happen next.
What Works and What Doesn’t
The best part of Original Sin is its suspense. The story keeps you wondering who Julia really is and whether Luis can trust her. The romance is passionate, and the thriller elements make it exciting. However, some parts of the movie may feel slow, and the twists can be confusing at times. The ending is surprising, but not everyone may like how things turn out.
Who Should Watch This Movie?
If you enjoy romantic movies with mystery and suspense, Original Sin is worth watching. It has love, betrayal, and thrilling moments that keep you engaged. However, because of some adult themes and intense scenes, it may not be suitable for very young children.
Final Thoughts
Original Sin is a mix of love and danger, with great performances from its lead actors. While it may not be a perfect movie, it is entertaining and keeps you hooked until the end. If you like stories where nothing is as it seems, this movie will not disappoint.

Michael Cristofer
(Screenwriter)

Angelina Jolie
as Julia Russell, Bonny Castle
(Actor)

Thomas Jane
as Billy, Walter Downs, Mephisto
(Actor)

Jack Thompson
as Alan Jordan
(Actor)

Allison Mackie
as Augusta Jordan
(Actor)

Gregory Itzin
as Colonel Worth
(Actor)

Joan Pringle
as Sara
(Actor)
Cordelia Richards
as Emily Russell
(Actor)

James Haven
as Faust, on Stage
(Actor)
Mario Iván Martínez
as Cuban Priest
(Actor)
Harry Porter
as Stage Manager
(Actor)
Fernando Torre Laphame
as Wedding Priest
(Actor)

Shaula Vega
as Dressmaker Girl
(Actor)

Lisa Owen
as Margareta (Stage)
(Actor)
Daniel Martínez
as Rafael
(Actor)

Farnesio de Bernal
as Bank Clerk
(Actor)
Nitzi Arellano
as Prostitute
(Actor)
Roger Cudney
as Ship's Captain
(Actor)

Adrian Makala
as Ship's Waiter
(Actor)
Francis Laboriel
as Ship's Stewardess
(Actor)

Patricio Castillo
as French Dining Steward
(Actor)
Derek Rojo
as Bell Boy
(Actor)
Abraham Stavans
as Mr. Gutiérrez
(Actor)

Roberto Medina
as Card Player
(Actor)
Julian Sedgwick
as Card Player
(Actor)
Alejandro Corp
as Card Player
(Actor)

Alejandro Reza
as Train Station Man
(Actor)

Julio Bracho
as Guard
(Actor)
George Belanger
as Gentleman in Morocco
(Actor)
Osami Kawano
as Gentleman in Morocco
(Actor)
Cornell Woolrich
(Writer)

Sheldon Abend
(Executive Producer)

David Hoberman
(Executive Producer)

Denise Di Novi
(Producer)
Kate Guinzburg
(Producer)
Carol Lees
(Producer)
Michael S. Glick
(Line Producer)

Edward L. McDonnell
(Co-Producer)
Eric A. Sears
(Film Editing)

Terence Blanchard
(Original Music)

David J. Bomba
(Production Design)
John R. Jensen
(Art Director)
Jorge Sainz
(Art Director)
Beth A. Rubino
(Set Decoration)

Donna Zakowska
(Costume Design)
Libby Goldstein
(Casting)
Junie Lowry-Johnson
(Casting)

Antonio Banderas
as Luis Antonio Vargas
(Actor)

Ashok Amritraj
(Executive Producer)

Rodrigo Prieto
(Cinematographer)