film: review

> CONSTANTINE (2005)
Keanu Reeves has another franchise!

By John C. Lyons
Film Critic

Constantine

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz

Directed by: Francis Lawrence

Written by: Jamie Delano and Garth Ennis (comic book Hellblazer), Kevin Brodbin and Frank A. Cappello (screenplay)

Genre: Action

Our Rating: 8.5/10
Say what you will about Keanu Reeves or his acting abilities, but you have to hand it to the guy, he has a knack for picking and starting movie franchises! And I believe he has another one here with Constantine, based on the comic book “Hellblazer”. The Matrix, Bill & Ted, hell even Speed, the man knows how to pick projects that are going to get people in their seats.

Keanu plays anti-hero John Constantine, a detective of all things demonic. We first meet him in Mexico and the tone of the film is set pretty early. The man smokes like a fiend and he’s not looking to make any friends. Without actually ever reading the comic, the character seems almost perfect for Keanu. He was a little overly stiff, but I am thinking if he gets to play him again Keanu will fit perfectly. He’s been to hell and back (no really, he has) and when a demon tries to make its way out of a little girl and onto Earth John gets the sneaking suspicion that Los Angeles is going to get a lot more dark and dreary.

Constantine isn’t going to be for everyone. The story is strongly religion-based and I even missed a few references and lines here and there. But if you’re looking for a very stylized action flick with a dark twist, this is your film. Apparently there is an added treat after the end credits. Unfortunately I didn’t find this out until after I saw the movie, so stay for the credits. Nice job Keanu! There are characters out there you are definitely made for. And thanks for getting my ass back in the theater!

I saw this film at Cinemark’s Tinseltown 17 Theatres on Peach Street in Erie, PA.

 

(05-0305)

related links:
Constantine - official site

MPAA rating: R
for violence and demonic images.

length: 121 minutes
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