The 1994 movie “The Crow,” directed by Alex Proyas is a cult classic and achieved cult status not only because the film is a masterpiece but Brandon Lee’s portrayal as Eric Draven has been set in stone and the reimagining of the cult classic, is not only a risky idea as a new idea or retelling needs to hit all the notes correctly in order to honor the lore, comics and the performances of the original that most people will remember and to be honest, this one missed the mark.
Now this film has its moments but a reimagining of Eric Draven and Shelly Webster was always going to be a contentious decision and for me after a 30-year-old classic, even though Bill Skarsgård and FKA Twigs did a very good job in their portrayal of what was given to them but it is difficult to shake off the feeling that Brandon Lee’s portrayal was and should have been the last.
The Crow tries to separate itself from the original 1994 film by focusing more on a full-on romance and horror, but ultimately misses the mark. The Crow lacks in terms of soul and connection. Parts of the film look rushed and some parts are drawn out a little too long. Once Eric fully takes on the Crow persona, however, the film does offer up a pleasantly violent third act that is suitably bloody and relentless, and I wish they had started off earlier, showing Eric being this violent person on a violent revenge mission as well as giving us a sense of the healing powers.
How did he obtain it without a drawn-out conversation with the man in purgatory who, to be honest, is there to explain how things work and if you have never seen the original or read the comics then this part might interest you but the majority of us who understand that the “crows” are what should guide you and the link between life and death.
This could have been the alternate version of Eric and if they had made the movie 70% of just a revenge-toting rendition, making this a Kill Bill / John Wick style film that maybe would have made it its own, but it comes too little, too late and what we have in the end is a missed opportunity
This version of The Crow proves that not all films or comic stories need to be resurrected.
The Crow is now playing in cinemas. Get your tickets at Numetro
Pre-Screening Spectacle
We got the chance to see the movie at a pre-screening at Nu Metro – A full-on fan experience that brought true Crow fans together. The authentic cosplayers brought the cult classic to the cinema, and watching the film with true fans made the experience less mediocre.
Are you in Johannesburg and looking to be part of the next pre-screening?
We’re not just hosting screenings; we’re cultivating a community of fans who share a passion for movies, games, and all things geek. With Nu Metro’s support, we aim to deliver one-of-a-kind experiences that leave a lasting impression. Engage with us on social media, share your excitement, and join our growing community.
Future screening announcements and chances to be invited can be found in our growing Whatsapp group.
Based By: The Crow by James O’Barr
Directors: Rupert Sanders
Cast: Bill Skarsgård, FKA Twigs, Danny Huston
Rating: 18 D H L N P PPS S V
Genres: Action, Sci-fi, Superhero, Adventure
Distributor(s): Lionsgate
Screenplay: Zach Baylin, William Schneider
Get Your Tickets Below:
The Review
The Crow
This version of The Crow proves that not all films or comic stories need to be resurrected.
