What a Mess

Rating: Null/10 (14 July 2004)

Van Helsing is a complete mess. I am mystified why they would have two of the most beautiful stars in Hollywood in Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale and not highlight them. The movie throws everything related to 19th Century horror novels against the wall in hopes that something will stick. Most films now a days don't have enough plot but Van Helsing has too much. Battles with Dr. Jekyll, Dracula, Wolfman, Frankenstein's Monster and the immortal lab assistant Igor mostly complete the list. Unfortunately there is zero emotional connection, not even reaching to the depths of Armageddon. This is a pure set design movie with bad CGI monsters; even given the efforts of Hugh and Kate. What a lot of people don't realize is that Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale are GOOD actors. However the director, Stephen Sommers gave them nothing to work with. Too bad, coulda been a contender. Wait for the DVD.