fascinating

Rating: 8/10 (20 February 2005)

I found it an interesting fusion of Catholic theology, folk tradition, and the sort of world-view philosophy most often found in speculative fiction. The cinematography has a gritty film-noir look which, though in color, enhances the morose mood of LA after dark -- plenty of shine,with equal amounts of smoke from the burning ghats. Scenes from Hell were, well, hellish; it was entirely apropos for the very air of Hell to remain in constant swirling motion. The rush and howl of flame and ash evoked the howls of the damned without beating us over the head with it. In keeping with the dark angst of the picture are the little touches of comedy, burnt-embers smuts here and there, and none of them that do not bring forth a round of highly ironic laughter from those in the audience with the wit to understand them. I also liked the dichotomy of the two main characters; cynical Constantine and sincere police detective. Many would have this film operate on firmer, more believable, more familiar ground. Give me the Great Mystery every time -- sometimes it's better to have cinema without complete safety.