A MUST SEE

Rating: Null/10 (4 July 2004)

!NO SPOILERS!
Wow. I have not seen an action-movie this good in years! This is a text-book example of what a Hollywood summer blockbuster should be. It is a non-stop, thrill-ride from beginning to end that leaves the audience with a feeling of satisfaction and elation.
PROS

SCORE - The score for this film is epic and memorable. It helps to drive the story forward, maintain it's momentum, and enhances the drama. Danny Elfman is truly a creative genius that knows this medium very well.

ACTING - While the acting is not Academy Award worthy, it is powerful enough to draw the audience closer to the characters and their back-story. The pacing is so well timed that I enjoyed both the action and story sequences equally, which is very rare.

EDITING - This movie literally flows like a roller-coaster. To my surprise, there are NO moments in this film that slow the movie down. Just like when a good roller-coaster ride comes to an end, this movie leaves you wanting more.

DIRECTION - Sam Raimi is a director that is not afraid to experiment and try new things. His distinctive techniques shine through in this film. He has a good sense of pacing. Murawski (EDITOR) and Raimi (DIRECTOR) are a good team.

CONS

C.G. - The C.G. is very good, however, it is evident in this film that the technology is not yet perfected. The fact is, there are moments in this film where it is quite evident that the action is computer generated. Today, Hollywood can get away with it, but as the technology advances, people will someday look back at these sequences and wonder how we were ever so forgiving.

CONCLUSION
This is an incredibly enjoyable film and a MUST SEE. If you have not seen the first SPIDER-MAN movie, then I suggest doing so before watching this one. There is a scene in this film that you will especially enjoy if you like Evil Dead 1, 2, and Army of Darkness. Raimi is a fun director, and I hope we see more of his work very soon.
9.9/10 (loses in C.G. - See CONS)