Tuesday, January 28, 2014

I, Frankenstein - Review


As a huge fan of the sci-fi/fantasy genre, I'm usually willing to give these kinds of movies a try.  And since it was produced by the same guys who did the Underworld series (which I've thoroughly enjoyed), I was even more pumped.  Filled with awesome action, cool creatures, and the wonderful Aaron Eckhart, this film didn't disappoint.

Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Underworld alum, Kevin Grevioux, I, Frankenstein takes a classic story and presents it to us in a unique way.  It tells the story of Frankenstein's monster, Adam, who, after the death of his creator, wanders the land for over 200 years.  The main part of the story is set in present day, where Adam is caught in the middle of an ancient war between demons and the Gargoyle Order, who were created by the Archangel Michael to battle the demons on Earth.  With the help of a human scientist, Adam searches for answers while trying to stay alive.
Kevin Grevioux's graphic novel

This is Stuart Beattie's second directorial endeavor, the first being Tomorrow, When The War Began. However, he has had plenty of writing experience.  Beattie has written screenplays for films such as Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Collateral, AustraliaG.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra and 30 Days of Night.  Beattie knows how to create interesting characters and creatures and has now shown that he can bring them to life as well.

I really enjoyed this film.  It was a fun, action-packed popcorn flick with cool characters and creatures and some really well-done fight scenes.  There were times when it felt a little over-the-top, but I expected that, since Underworld does the same thing.  I, personally, loved what they did with the Gargoyle Order.  It was a great take on these creatures, which are rarely used in film.  The story did feel very similar to the Underworld series, both in tone and story.  And the fact that both Bill Nighy and Kevin Grevioux were in the film helped push that feeling.
The Gargoyle Order looks pretty awesome

Aaron Eckhart did a great job as Frankenstein's monster, Adam.  He gave personality and emotion to a creature that is normally portrayed without.  Eckhart is a believable badass and was a great fit for this role.  Miranda Otto (Éowyn from the Lord of the Rings trilogy) plays Leonore, an angel sent to lead the Gargoyles in the fight against the demons, and Bill Nighy plays Charles Wessex/Prince Naberius, the head of the Wessex Institute, leader of the demons, and one of the original fallen angels who fell from Heaven with Lucifer.  Nighy's performance was great, even though it did remind me a little of his role in Underworld.

Overall, even though this film didn't have a good opening weekend, I would still recommend it, especially if you're a fan of the Underworld series.  It's got a good story, interesting characters, cool creatures and doesn't drag itself out too long.  So, if you're looking for a fun movie to check out, go see I, Frankenstein.

Josh's Rating:  7.5/10




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