Never shall you be bored

Rating: 9/10 (7 May 2004)

If you are a fan of the classic horror films, you will enjoy this film. Van Helsing does its work with its epic soundtrack, lively characters, and jaw-dropping special effects. However, there are things wrong with it. The best way to give it an honest review is to break it up by its characters.

Van Helsing: Well portrayed, but the back story was rather choppy, and made little sense. Anna: Kate Beckinsale makes a viewer fall in love with that face, body, and physicality. The trailer does not give her justice--the accent is much improved. Dracula: Richard Roxburgh had the opportunity to perhaps be ranked in the top 3 Draculas of all time. Though, for what he had (another illogical storyline and at times lackluster lines), he did well. His CGI was above average. Frankenstein's Monster: An overdramatic portrayal by Shuler Hensley. Get past that, and you have another fine character. The Wolfman: Will Kemp is very good in his movements, but reminds the audience that this is his first hack at a big film. Note: The CGI werewolf had me swearing and pounding everytime I saw it. Carl: Whimsical, at times charming fellow. Most would say he stole the show, but I will leave that for the werewolf. The Brides: Sexy... gorgeous... vicious... well done.
If the viewer can get by the director's overdone CGI (save the werewolf, of course), and choppy scripting... then you have a good film. Dracula and Van Helsing's backstories are not well thought out. The Monster was a little over the top. The werewolf will blow your mind. I'd see it twice, thrice... (Note: Dracula-fanatic reviewing the film)
8/10.