Constantine

Rating: 5/10 (31 July 2010)

John Constantine (Keanu Reeves) is a demon-hunter whose job is to find and send half-demons back to Hell when they try to invade the normal world. By doing this he hopes to ultimately save his own soul that has been doomed to Hell due to a suicide attempt many years ago. When he teams up with a female LAPD detective Dodson (Rachel Weisz) he may have a chance to finally redeem himself for good by locating the Spear of Destiny, a powerful magical object that is very dangerous in wrong, demonic hands.
I haven't read the Hellblazer comic book series on which the movie is based, but the film doesn't really stand out much among other modern action-fantasies. The story is quite action-driven and lacks atmosphere despite attempts to make the sets and characters ooze coolness and mystery. Some of the exorcisms and hellish ordeals actually come across as rather comical; I don't think this is all intentional considering the tone of the rest of the film, even though it must be noted that there is clearly some intentional humour too. The visions of Hell and some of the demons look somewhat cool though, but the impact is significantly diminished by very obvious CGI effects like in so many other films that came out before and after it – a shame, really. The cinematography is pretty good throughout though.
Another problem with the movie are the characters. Keanu Reeves has never been the most charismatic of actors but John Constantine is never given much time to develop in the midst of the action anyway, so I'm not sure if there was much anyone could have done with the role. Rachel Weisz in a double role cannot bring her characters to life either and Shia LaBeouf as Constantine's young assistant is just annoying. Nevertheless, I did like Tilda Swinton as the angel Gabriel and Peter Stormare as Lucifer himself.
Unfortunately a few good actors and decent photography cannot carry a whole film alone. Constantine isn't completely useless but doesn't offer much to friends of suspense-driven horror films or kick-ass actioners. It works alright as harmless pastime and can be watched for light entertainment though; perhaps those with an interest in Christian demon mythology will find it more enjoyable.