I enjoyed the movie very much

Rating: Null/10 (28 August 1999)

The movie was a different type of action film - more credible than most. It seemed to capture the Viking lifestyle and beliefs quite well. It had a down to earth feel, you could believe that what was depicted could have happened.
As for originality, Crighton's retelling of the oldest piece of written English literature, Beowulf and his twelve companions, and their struggle against the monster Graendel, puts the myth to rest, painting a vivid picture of a hero that really may have existed. I found it inspiring, and Buliwif's brand of courage and fortitude was better for our time than Beowulf's bare handed slaying of an invincible monster, simply because it was an act capable by anyone. People of today don't require larger than life heros. They only need to be shown the way to their own small acts of greatness.
I agree that Banderas did not steal the show, but he played a great part in a larger whole. I do not think that anyone should attend this film with the idea that he carries it. He does not. But he is still the movie's main charater, and presents himself believably and strongly in the role. That he is not the main character of the story simply adds to the flavour of the film.
Definately a worthwhile watch.