Van Helsing: Fun to watch with friends! Purists: run for the hills!

Rating: 9/10 (3 June 2007)

First of all, I'd like to say that I do understand the people who really hate this movie. It's got A LOT of CGI in it and almost more action... and that makes it a great movie for some and trash for others. I myself have now seen it about 7 times, including a time with audio commentary and I just can't get enough of it.
**The following might contain spoilers**
So, the story is a little cliché. A man goes to some country to vanquish a great evil, while that great evil plans to take over the world. But this cliché formula can make a great movie when used in the right way. Sommers and his cast and crew managed to do so. The movie is beautiful, great special effects, wonderful locations and a funny and well-chosen cast. The jokes are good, the accents even better (accept for Kate's, she overacts in my opinion) and Richard Roxburgh is a marvelous Dracula.
Let's take a look at the cast. First there is our monster hunter and all-round evil vanquisher Hugh Jackman. Too bad he left out his Aussie accent. He is a rather boastful hero, but the only steady thing in this story. You know his goal and he seems to know too, so just go for it!
Then up pops David Wenham, with a real funny walk and talk. His hair's funny too and those ears... Poor Daisy... He's still great, despite his strange behavior. I think he should also join the Australian baseball team because he throws almost everything.
They needed a bad-ass girl, so Underworld's leading lady Kate Beckinsale came over... No offense, I just don't like Kate Bacchanal...
Who I did like is Richard Roxburgh. Richard does great, had a really cool accent and even seemed to BE Dracula! His international brides Elena, Silvia and Josie rock and look wonderful accompanying their dark master.
Whatever anyone says, Shuler Hensley played an unforgettable Frankenstein's monster and Will Kemp is adorable as Velkan.
Good cast, no wait, GREAT cast. Anyone who dislikes this movie should see the bloopers, the interviews and making offs. You really start to adore the actors and maybe, with a little good will, you could even start to like the movie too.
I recommend this movie to any person who's open-minded enough to not flip out because there aren't any lengthy conversations and no deep character studies. It's also good to have a strong stomach. More importantly, this movie is best when watched with friends, because making fun of David Wenham's wrong ears and Dracula's pop star-like ponytail is a lovely thing to do on your average Friday night.
There's only one thing that bothers me and that is the way the Wolf man looks. The ears aren't what they should be...
One last thing: Do watch the movie with Richard Roxburh, Shuler Hensley and Will Kemp commenting on it. They have juicy stories about some scenes...