Monster Zero x SciFi Japan - Archive Only

You know, I actually liked his Sherlock Holmes. It had that pulp adventure feel, as opposed to a more cerebral or suspenseful one, and that was okay by me. I also liked Downey and Law as a duo. I prefer Downey's Holmes to his Iron Man.

We saw this tonight on a whim. It was actually much better than I expected based on reviews. The editing and cinematography left something to be desired (I'm not a fan of the super quick cuts back and forth between someone describing an even and the actual event as their description continues as a voice over. And this film does that too many times). But that's really my biggest complaint. The story is a pretty solid, if familiar tale of family betrayal along with a classic hero's journey. The characters in general are serviceable while Hunnum makes a good lead and Law is a rather vicious villain .

It's definitely uneven and there are a few ideas/threads that go nowhere or aren't very well explained (exactly how does that sea creature give Jude Law more power...?). But it also has plenty of neat ideas with interesting execution. I really liked how the mage girl used her magic with animals in several scenes. Excalibur was also pretty neat both in design and execution.

If you go in, like me, without any expectations or preconceived notions you might come out pleasantly surprised. It's not a GREAT movie, but I liked it well enough that I'm glad I saw it. I think if they took the exact same story, cast, et al and just slightly tweeked the style (cinematography, editing, music, etc.) to be a little more classic then it would be a really good movie that I'd probably be putting on my blurry wishlist. Even as is I'd be up for a sequel if they can come up with a decent story idea.