A simplified view...

Rating: 6/10 (25 February 2005)

I have learned long ago not to expect a comic book-turned-movie to be (necessarily) like the comic book. And so, if you are a fan of the Hellblazer rag, you may not find this film as deep or as detailed as you might have become accustomed. This film however, freed of the continuity baggage of the comic, presents a believable glimpse into a man's life of divine sarcasm. You see, he doesn't have faith because he knows the truth about heaven and hell. Yet, without faith, the theological elevator can only go down in the end. This is the dichotomy: he is revered for what he knows about the balance of heaven and hell...but his knowledge ensures he will never reach redemption. With all of the "shocker" films coming out this time of year, Constantine DOES have the depth which will keep audience members talking long after the credits have rolled. And keep an eye on the brief performance of Peter Stormare as Lucifer...brilliant. A perfect movie for people who spent many a night at college discussing religion.