Written & Directed By: Tommy Wirkola
Cinematography By: Michael Bonvillain
Editor: Jim Page
Cast: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Famke Janssen, Peter Stormare, Thomas Mann, Derek Mears
Hansel & Gretel are bounty hunters who track and kill witches all over the world. As the fabled Blood Moon approaches, the siblings encounter a new form of evil that might hold a secret to their past.
This is what it seems Like Terry Gillian's movie THE BROTHERS GRIMM should have been at least in spirit. More energetic, playful, fun and inventive. Though doesn’t feel as epic or as rich as Gilliam’s film usually are
Though that film has it's own strengths. This film isn't built so much on character as it is on action.
The film is torso table and the tone is playful as the film at least has a sense of humor about itself. It's like a Sam Raimi film think ARMY OF DARKNESS. while Also feeling like an extended one off episode of the shows he produced XENA: WARRIOR PRINCESS and HERCULES: THE LEGEND CONTINUES.
As the film dons period costume and devices but seems to update them. Just as the recent trend of placing literary classics and making them either more sinister or placing them In a totally Different genre. This one sticks to it's roots only with the characters older and having changed since the classic story. it is a bodice ripper but more from fighting physical action rather than any romance or drama.
The film wisely sidelines a more romantic angle. That easily could have sank the film. Though does involve a younger character as a kind of kindly apprentince that helps bring a younger audience to the film. Which it seems more aimed at, While using it’s premise as a kind of witty wink for the audience and the story
Director Tommy Wirkola brings a sense of wonder and world building to the film which he has done successfully In his previous films the DEAD SNOW films. That mix comedy, and horror though with more a modern sensibility. here he uses a mix of cgi and practical effects that give a more realistic feeling and view when it comes to the fantasy sequences and doesn't take you right out of the film.
The film is better than it has any right to be and believe it is due to the ingenuity and passion of the director who obviously has a vision and creative spark with the material and it shows. As the film is filled with energy even when it has it's weaknesses. The film is something fun to watch as there will be something you hope will throw you off guard.
It always makes a film more fun when you can tell that the filmmaker is sharing his excitement and interest with the audience. It feels like he set up a party just for us to enjoy. As long as you don't study or think too hard about the details you will enjoy yourself.
The film is actually quite gory which only adds to the more other worldly tone as the violence is more cartoonish then Gruesome.
At least the film is more the work of an original idea rather than the films of this type which come from what seem like humor takes on classic tales mixed in with horror or supernatural characters like PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES.
Jeremy Renner does what is required as he plays his role as a less charismatic action hero. Who is all about duty and loyalty and is more the tough as nails part of the duo.
Hansel is diabetic, as a result of his experience in the gingerbread house as a child. In the original script, Gretel was also supposed to have an eating disorder, as a result of the same trauma, but this was not included in the movie.
Gemma Arterton is a joy to watch. Especially after over the years watching her career. It's nice to see her more in a lead and an action film role that allows her to be tough when needed but also be beautiful when needed.
The film is better than it has any right to be and I believe it is due to the ingenuity and passion of the director who obviously has a vision and creative spark with the material and it shows. As the film is filled with energy even when it has it's weaknesses. The film is something fun to watch as there will be something you hope will throw you off guard.
Though the film actually plays off more as an action film with supernatural elements. Using more homemade and classically put together weapons. With rather lethal hand to hand combat skills. That show they are more doing this it seems for revenge than anything else.
It always makes a film more fun when you can tell that the filmmaker is sharing his excitement and interest with the audience. It feels like he set up a party just for us to enjoy. As long as you don't study or think too hard about the details you will enjoy yourself.
The film is surprising while not a classic it is much better the. One would assume. Especially considering it was a film that was dumped into an early release in the year it was released. Usually a dead ground for bad films that are pit out there to make a quick buck. This film is actually decent.
The film could have been a one off, but seems built to become a franchise. One that wouldn't be out of place as this so the type of film VAN HELSING should have been at least in spirit. As it has a goofy charm that reminds one of GHOSTBUSTERS not as funny and not quite the ensemble piece but a mixture of the absurd and practical reasoning in fantasy.
The film keeps you entertained and actually ales you leave with a smile on your face.
Grade: C+
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