Constantine (2005)



Movie Title: Constantine

Year Released: 2005

Rated: R

Runtime: 2h 1min

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Horror, Thriller,

Director: Francis Lawrence

Writer: Kevin Brodbin and Frank A. Cappello

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Shia LaBeouf, Djimon Hounsou, Max Baker, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Gavin Rossdale, Tilda Swinton, Peter Stormare, Jesse Ramirez, José Zúñiga, Francis Guinan, Larry Cedar, April Grace

Review: Based on the DC Comics' Hellblazer comic book series Constantine follows supernatural detective John Constantine (Keanu Reeves) as he helps a policewoman (Rachel Weisz) investigate the strange circumstances surrounding her sister's death. Fans of the comic did not like this interpretation of the chain-smoking demon-battling ant-hero, but I have to say...I rather liked this movie. I have not read the comics, although I did pick up an issue recently, but I do get why the fan-base reacted negatively. Keanu Reeves is rather good as John Constantine. He's dark, cynical, and no-nonsense. Plus, the supporting cast of Rachel Weisz, Shia LaBeouf, Djimon Hounsou, Max Baker, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Gavin Rossdale, Tilda Swinton, and Peter Stormare are all top-notch. And for a movie based on a comic this one is not an origin story. It doesn't over explain itself. It hits the ground running and although it's been stated that some of the story has been taken from existing comics in the long-running series, this movie treats the audiences like intelligent viewers that can follow along and make sense of what's happening without having every character, dialogue scene, prop, and location being explained to them like just about every other movie out these days. Constantine is superhero fare with a macabre sense of humor. The action is exciting. It's scary, weird, creepy, and definitely worth a look. If you like the character of John Constantine you might want to check out the animated version of the character, which is must closer to the comics, in Justice League Dark.

Stars (out of 4):
       

Fun Fact: Keanu Reeves bought the Holy Shotgun prop, and gave it to director Francis Lawrence as a gift.



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