The first 30 minutes of The Promise I was ... dismayed. The CGI effects were ridiculous and poorly executed most especially with the battle with the bulls. The characters didn't even seem connected to the scenery, the dramatic abilities of the main character weren't awe-inspiring but laughable instead. After that rough introduction they integrated the effects with more care and as I grew more accustomed to the abilities they were presenting I was able to settle back into the story and really enjoy it. The Promise lets you down early only to pick you up and carry you to a very beautiful and well-told tale of love and betrayal. Not to mention that the primary characters are very easy on the eyes. ;) Highly recommended for those that are either willing to ignore some early cgi-cheese or change their initial impressions.