/NOT/ a nod to nostalgia . . . and okay with that.

Rating: 9/10 (3 April 2010)

Although this remake has some marked differences from the original, I have the humble opinion that far too many are making their compare and contrast list a little too detailed. Technological advances in the film making industry since Desmond Davis' glory days allow for the monsters to be far more realistic in their appearance. Die hard fans of the original that kicked down doors in the F/X field might complain that it's too "fancy" and the original had more personality but I believe those people fail to see this remake for what it truly aims to be. This is not the movie to put on your rosy colored reminiscing glasses in order to see -- you need to go in without expectations based off the original. Though lacking in major character development and story telling drive if you set aside your expectations for a deep and moving plot Clash of the Titans because exactly what it set out to be -- a fun hack and slash with great visuals. It is unapologetic in its brash visualizations and unerring attempt to grab onto the skirt tails of hack and slash fantasy movies. I feel that the remake included some improvements from the original and paid homage to its predecessor with a polite nod and tip of the hat. It does not strive to outdo Davis' work but seeks to give us what a tale of a burgeoning hero with a sword and an uncertain destiny should. In short, put your nostalgia on the shelf if you have it, set aside your expectations for a duplicated salute to the original and go to see it as it was meant to be seen . . . an engaging action flick with more spunk than Bubo the Owl.