A Good change of pace from recent comic book movies, A gritty movie that wrestles the question of spirituality.

Rating: 9/10 (22 February 2005)

I had been excited about the movie since I first started seeing previews for it on the internet and in theaters last year. I wasn't overly thrilled , this-is-going-to-be-the-best-movie-ever sort of thing, but I was looking forward to it.
Being an avid reader I picked up the literary adaptation of the movie (aka the Book: Constantine) considering I had nothing to read and the story, the more i had read about it, seemed like a solid one. I had never read the comics, and although not an avid comic reader, I have read a few.
When I went into the theater last night, I already knew the plot line, and understood the characters. Although there was more development in the book (which is understandable), I could easily follow along the story, as could my companions, without any foresight. The world was similar enough to our own (it is set in modern day LA) that you immediately can see the likeness of the world. The existence of demons and angels on Earth helped to describe some of the oddities of everyday life ("insane" people mumbling of the devil and God) which further solidified the setting as believable and probable. With a story paced more upon the discoveries of Angela, a detective who is seemingly surrounded by odd circumstances, it sometimes seemed a bit slow - however I was entertained with the world and the plot line. I could see, however, others become disinterested or bored.
Reeves character, John Constantine, is portrayed as a pessimistic, pragmatic, cynical occult specialist armed with a special 'curse' (or 'gift') to perceive the other-worldly. Having experienced Hell, and aware of his damned soul - he makes his way through life trying to buy his way into heaven. His smoking and drinking habits - along with his negative attitude lead to a very refreshing anti-hero. His 'bad-ass' nature and obvious flaws paint an image of a very normal man with issues dealing with his life. Such a character makes the character development obvious and (perhaps) more meaningful.
The movie portrays a world that is dark, gritty, and (arguably) sacrilegious. Although dealing with a Christian world-view, it is a dark, cultist version. If you are one to be angered or turned-off by such presentations, this movie may not be for you.
All in all, the movie is presented in a realistic and believable world with unique and stylized characters. The plot is intriguing although seems more of a pace-setter for a very character driven story. The sets are well done, and the cinematography is superb - somewhat akin to a comic book, yet not over the top like other recent films have been (Hulk, anyone?).
If you go in dropping *all* expectations, I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised. I was.