I know reviews were promised for multiple movies this weekend, so let's start with the one you've seen litter this blog, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. Where does this rest as a film adaptation of a two year-old novel? Depends. For fairness of Grahame-Smith's work as well as audiences in general, I will compose two separate reviews based on certain criteria: one for those who read the book and have seen the film (me) and another for those who only view the film itself.
Trust me on this. Seeing particular films with friends who are unaware of the novel's material really does pay out. Two views of the same movie, yet two completely different opinions come out.
Let's begin, shall we?
Novel First, Movie After:
As you know, I read this book during the previous semester in my American Lit course. A very highly anticipated read, I began two weeks early and eventually composed an eight-page paper over the topic "Does Grahame-Smith preserve history through creativity?" Absolutely. He spared no expense researching Lincoln's life as well as events surrounding his exploits. My understanding of this material became solid and unquestionable.
Viewing Timur Bekmambetov's direction of Grahame-Smith's screenplay can only be summed up in one word: short. The novel, while somewhat lengthy at 300+ pages, never fails to extend certain plot elements. Reading the book offers the fullest experience. Now, to no surprise, Grahame-Smith wrote the screenplay as well as produced his adaptation. This can also be seen with Robert Kirkman's The Walking Dead in which the original author holds a contributing hand in the on-screen version. However, I believe this holds a certain issue. Authors of the base material feel obligated to cut out, add in, or blend scenes together which can dramatically alter the film for those who already know well their material. While I won't reveal any spoilers, be prepared to tilt/scratch your head in confusion if you've read the book. Those age-old questions "Where's this" or "What's this" comes around multiple times.
Acting stands as the film's strongest point. Benjamin Walker as Lincoln shines in the role. Absolutely incredible performance from beginning to end. Filling the shoes of Abraham Lincoln never brings an easy task, but Walker's stature combined with a strong voice gives credit to a prominent figure who's actual nature was somewhat timid.
Dominic Cooper as Henry confused me. In the book (not really a spoiler), his role resided more in the shadows leading Abe through the plot very secretively. From their initial interaction, certain "get-to-know-you" discussions, and throughout the story, Henry's friendship with Abe went through many trials which don't really translate to film well. If you're reading this and not understanding, remember, this review is for those who read the book and know what I mean.
The story, in general, deviates from the novel version almost entirely. Major events that shaped Smith's Lincoln were cut out and hardly to not even mentioned. Ann Rutledge has a "blink-or-you'll-miss-it" cameo during the Battle of Gettysburg scene. Pay very close attention and you'll see.
Overall verdict for book first, movie later: Third quarter- Think about it for a bit on the couch, then go see the damn movie. In more traditional sense: a three of five or six of ten. Adequate for comparisons between the medias, but nowhere near a faithful adaptation. This can be forgiven only when looking at the matter through a production/financial window.
Movie only:
Can't really say much without spoiling the film, so this I will say. Just watch the film, don't read the book, and go about your merry. Most likely, you're part of the bandwagon crowd that loved the AMC version of The Walking Dead rather than take the longer route to read through the entire graphic novel series and find a better, more fulfilling enjoyment.
I will include this. Should you come at an impass, choose one or the other. Enjoy one, ignore the other. I'm a part of a select group capable of discussing both in greater detail. I leave the choice for your sound mind.
As the weekend progresses, more reviews will appear for Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, Moonrise Kingdom, and Brave. Sunday should mark the completion of each review.
Until then, allow me an opportunity to burden your minds with yet another insightful view into what DO you do with a BA in English: #19- Read and/or contribute to the mash-up/mutant genre that is quickly sweeping the globe. It's fun, entertaining, and educational!
Jonesy signing off to hunt down some vampires.
No comments:
Post a Comment