it may not be perfect, but this is one entertaining retelling of one of our nation's most recognizable figures

Rating: 6/10 (1 July 2012)

There are many options that can result from trying to write a fictional story that contains actual historical characters. Whether it is changing the death of Hitler, the events of the Cold War, or the history of an ancient empire, there are many risks that can come from rewriting history. It can be far-fetched, ridiculous, and stupid to watch, especially for someone who has a strong love for history. But, there is something great that can come from a new story about famous events and figures: the stories can be extremely entertaining.
And no matter how ridiculous or far-fetched it is, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is an incredibly entertaining film.
Rewriting possibly the greatest leader in American history and one of the most recognizable figures ever, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is exactly as titled: the behind the scenes story of Abraham Lincoln as not only our 16th president, but as an axe wielding, monster slaying hunter as well. And while this idea could get exceedingly out of hand, the film is surprisingly well constructed around the actual life of Abraham Lincoln and incorporates the vampires in a smart manner rather than a stupid sideshow.
Originally written as a novel by Seth Grahame-Smith (the writer also behind Pride and Prejudice and Zombies), Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter starts off in Lincoln's youth, when his mother is murdered by a vampire his father had crossed. The film then moves through his training as a young adult with another experienced hunter to his relationship with Mary Todd and other friends all the way to being elected president of the United States of America where he would lead the Union against the Confederate south and the allied vampires.
I know what you may be thinking: "Allied Confederate vampires? That's a little much." But it really isn't. Even though the vampires are incorporated throughout the legacy of Lincoln and placed into some of the major moments of his presidency, it never seems stupid. Unrealistic duh. Ridiculoussure. But it is always more fun than stupid. Taking an extremely respected figure and leader and changing his memory to a vampire slaying, ruthless hunter? Yeah, there is plenty of entertainment there.
To read the rest of the review (IMDb form too short) visit: http://custodianfilmcritic.com/abraham-lincoln-vampire-hunter/