A fresh take on ‘The Crow’: A dreamy yet bloody fantasy thriller
Reviving a cult classic
Lionsgate has been keen to ensure that the latest iteration of “The Crow” isn’t labeled as a mere remake or reboot. While it does breathe new life into a dormant franchise, it stands apart from its predecessors. This version takes even more creative liberties with J. O’Barr’s original comics than the 1994 adaptation, which is etched in our memories largely due to the tragic on-set death of Brandon Lee. His untimely demise turned what could have been a career-defining role into a poignant memorial.
A new vision for a beloved story
Comparisons driven by nostalgia rarely do justice to new adaptations, so it’s understandable that the studio wanted to distance this film from its predecessors. The project has faced numerous challenges, cycling through various directors, writers, and stars over the past decade. Despite some fans and early reviewers sharpening their knives, Rupert Sanders‘ direction offers a fresh perspective. Known for “Snow White and the Huntsman”, Sanders crafts a dreamy fantasy thriller that is both bloody and oddly inviting.
A slower, more elegant pace
Unlike the fast-paced, action-packed superhero films we’re accustomed to, this version of “The Crow” takes its time. It offers a more elegant, dislocated revenge-slash-love story that stands in contrast to the pop-Gothic and martial-arts tones of previous entries. This reinvention may not be a slam dunk, but it is far from an unwatchable dud.
A tale of grief and revenge
J. O’Barr originally conceived the comic book series to channel his grief and rage after his fiancée’s tragic death. In both the graphic novel and Alex Proyas’ film, the villains are urban lowlifes. However, in this new adaptation, the script by Zach Baylin and William Schneider introduces kinky, rich evildoers who are too well-connected to face consequences for their crimes.
In an unnamed city, Shelly (played by Brit pop star FKA Twigs) is a rising singer drawn into the hedonistic world of shadowy tycoon Vincent Roeg (Danny Huston). Roeg, who has literally sold his soul to the devil, lures innocent souls into corruption. When Shelly’s friends record evidence of his misdeeds, they find themselves in grave danger.
A love story amidst chaos
Shelly gets herself arrested to escape Roeg’s goons and ends up in a state rehab facility where she meets Eric (Bill Skarsgard). With his mullet, tattoos, and sardonic air, Eric is a compelling character. Their connection deepens as they realize that even rehab isn’t safe from Roeg’s reach.
The film takes its time to develop their relationship, unlike previous installments that relegated happy moments to flashbacks. However, villainy eventually catches up with them, leading to their deaths. Eric then wakes up in a Limbo where an entity named Kronos (Sami Bouajila) informs him that he can return to the mortal plane to seek revenge.
A journey of vengeance
Guided by a crow, Eric embarks on a mission to avenge Shelly’s death. Protected by the purity of his grieving love, he can bounce back from any punishment Roeg’s enforcers dish out. The film’s second half is a bloody journey up the chain of command, culminating in a spectacular one-man-versus-private-army confrontation intercut with an operatic performance.
A unique visual and auditory experience
The film’s visual style, crafted by DP Steve Annis, features widescreen compositions and well-chosen locations in Prague and Germany. The production design by Robin Brown and playful costumes by Kurt and Bart add to the film’s sleek, airy look. Special visual effects are restrained, apart from the omnipresent crow.
The soundtrack leans towards ’80s cuts by Joy Division and Gary Numan, offering a different flavor from the grunge-era vision of the original film. The performances are effective, avoiding overly broad strokes despite the thin character writing.
A satisfying re-imagining
While there may not be a clamor for more sequels, this 2024 re-imagining of “The Crow” has enough personality and panache to stand on its own. It may not surpass the original, but it offers a fresh, satisfying take on a beloved story.
For more details and to watch the trailer, visit The Crow.
For music enthusiasts, check out the soundtrack on Spotify.