Not as bad as some reviewers make out

Rating: 6/10 (24 October 2012)

When I sat down to watch Abe Vampire Hunter I wasn't expecting much. This may have been the reason I was pleasantly surprised by it. The story of Abraham Lincoln being a vampire hunter seems like an idea that would be so hard to pitch that it would have never have gotten off the ground in the first place. Indeed 20 years ago it would not have. With so many movies being remakes and reboots it's nice to see that the studios do look at new concepts and are willing to take chances. Abraham's story does indeed have flaws. There are times that i was watching it jump from scene to scene like a storyboard concept with all the subtlety of a montage. The characters are fully fledged comic book characters that all have a story to tell but not much heart to go with them. But this was never meant to be a heart warming story of a man and his dog. It's a high concept action/horror film using a historical figure as it's main focus. I do feel that the tongue in cheek title does deceive a little bit as I was hoping for a bit more humour, it's title alone is a eye roller that asks you to just go with it. But sometimes the film actually takes itself too seriously a bit. But once you get over the fact this is an action/horror, you are left with a great piece of Saturday night entertainment. The ideas on show here are very refreshing to see and some of the action sequences are visually stunning. The 3D is also very enjoyable, with the slow motion really giving the pop out effect another little extra treat for you. (Apologies to the 3D haters but I happen to enjoy films that jump out and occasional moments that break the 4th wall). I found myself looking at the scenery and camera angles as they showed off the set designs and props fantastically. It is a piece of eye candy and its very pleasant on the eye.
Possible Spoiler Alert: One scene I found incredibly refreshing was the galloping horses action sequence. Original, brutal and something that makes the film stand out from all the usual hum drum action fare out there. Abe's axe wielding is also another little piece of genius.
It's fair to say that this film is style over substance but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes I want to see great sets, brilliant SFX and intricate action sequences.
Will this movie save your love of cinema? Maybe not but it will keep the bed warm until a film that does comes along.
Abe Lincoln is a great piece of action cinema that will keep you entertained for 2 hours. Give it a go, Timur's vision has to be applauded even if the script is lacking a little X factor.
6 out of 10. Better than average.