As I always try to look for some new way to expand my offerings, I have decided to keep an eye out across the world of entertainment news and try my hand at news reporting/commentary on stories that catch my eye. Obviously, I cannot cover everything. What I will do is catch whatever I can as I can and hope that it delivers something new to you.
The Crow to Fly Again
I am not sure what to think about this bit of news from Variety. It states that director Stephen Norrington is going to bring us a new take on The Crow franchise. On one hand I am excited, while on the other I am extremely skeptical.
When people ask me what my favorite movie is, for years the answer came back: "The Crow." That is usually the title that still escapes my lips although the more movies I watch the more factors come into play such as mood and the last great film I saw. Still, more often than note I come back to Alex Proyas' gothic masterpiece based on the graphic novel created by James O'Barr as a cathartic release to help him recover from the death of his girlfriend many years ago.
The Crow is a film that brings to life a hero driven by revenge and love. Ultimately it is a story of romance. It is tragic, action packed, dark, stylish, and brought to the screen in such singular style so as to become a cult piece of fiction that has gained even more power over the years. Of course, it is also remembered for the tragic accident that took the life of star Brandon Lee (son of martial arts legend Bruce Lee), who gave an incredibly charismatic and emotional performance as Eric Draven.
Now, the idea of a remake is almost unthinkable, but far be it from me to dismiss it out of hand. The original film did give way to three sequels (featuring different lead characters) and a television series based on the Draven story. From the Variety article I am unclear if this is a remake of the Eric Draven story or if it will be a new story using idea of The Crow as a vehicle, which is what the sequels did. I think I would prefer a new story, although I would not be against a new take on the Draven character. How's that for non-committal?
Stephen Norrington is an interesting choice to take on such a project considering his last film was the not so good League of Extraordinary Gentleman. Of course, if you go back a bit further you will see that he acquitted himself well with Blade, and it is that film that gives me some hope that he could do well here. A lot of it will hinge on the story and the casting. It is going to take someone special to lead this film, and I believe that success will need to come from a possibly unexpected source, much like Heath Ledger's intense performance in The Dark Knight.
Article comments
1 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
Thinking of how horrible the last sequel to The Crow was, I hope they can give it a brilliant return. Though, if Mr. Norrington wants this film to lose its comic book qualities then he's going to have to pull a Saving Private Ryan and really blow people's minds. I'm in the same boat...Excited & Highly Skeptical.
As for Spawn, HBO's animated trilogy was the best! They will be hard pressed to beat that with a live-action movie. It's bad enough that Mr. McFarlane ruined his own creation when he had complete control.
2 - Angel
A remake of The Crow shows a complete disrespect to the life and legacy of Brandon Lee.
3 - john
hmm the only good one in the group of crow films was the first. nothing can touch it or brandon. I wld hope they go all new with it but keep it good and not tacky with computer animation, off the wall stunts and bad acting. Depp would be and awsome lead. but leave draven to brandon as his legacy.