Constantine (2005) Review

 

Constantine (2005)

There has been a distinct lack of superhero related titles on here, so I thought I’d try a new one for me, as I’ve been meaning to watching this for years, being a fan of the Hellblazer comics.

Constantine focuses on John Constantine, a man who can see and operate beyond the realm of humanity and is the final line of defense in war between Heaven and Hell. Along his way, he helps a detective as she looks for the truth about her dead sister.

I’ve heard so many mixed views on this, some calling it corny and awful, while others calling it cult masterpiece. And I have to admit, I was shocked and how much I enjoyed this. On top of being another 2000s dark take on the superhero genre, it’s also a neo-noir thriller, that is exciting and a definite precursor to the John Wick films.

The story does get convoluted at times, as they tried to build a world of characters the general public isn’t familiar with, while also move along the main plot. It’s straightforward though and does a good job of, even if confusing you, keeping you focused and engaged with the visuals and acting.  Love the interpretation of Hell here too, where it’s almost like a nuclear blast reimagining of our own world (think Stranger Things upside down). It’s gritty and just super badass, and would’ve loved to have seen it featured more. The CGI, while still in it’s infant stages, isn’t bad for the time but also wasn’t used in excess, thank god.

Keanu Reeves, coming off The Matrix, caught some slack for his portrayal, bur I thoroughly enjoyed it. He put his own gritty spin on it, and I love his “just another day at the office” approach to Constantine, who hates how good he is at his job. The supporting cast is a mixed bag, with Rachel Weisz not leaving much of an impact, say compared to Tilda Swinton as the Angel Gabriel, who is great! As always, Djimon Hounsou and Peter Stormare are brilliant as well.

While the ending leaves you wanting more, this is definitely one of the few nu-antihero films of the 00s that got it right with it’s tone and approach. Constantine is super cool, and Reeves’ spin on the character is what makes the film shine so bright.

7.5/10