Could have been a Contender

Rating: Null/10 (7 May 2004)

I did not love this movie. But I did not hate it either. I may be biased because I am huge Hugh Jackman fan, but I do not think this movie should be out and out panned. It has some great things going for it....Jackman, cool music, Great CGI scenery, An awesome black and white opening sequence that really grabs you, and a lot of cool action. Of course there are the problems that keep it from being great-cheesy dialouge, overuse of special effects, a way too campy Roxborough as Dracula, and a leading lady wearing way too much makeup and modern clothing to be believable (I am sorry Kate Beckinsale fans-she annoyed me in this.) I would have liked more explanation behind Van Helsing's past and for a little less mindless action at points. I also thought the movie was too long. However I can see where parts of this movie might have been used to make up a really good cinematic experience, so it is kind of a shame to me that some of its potential was wasted. I recommend people see this in the movies....you will not get the same reaction out of it on video, but I do not recommend it for people looking for a great meaningful movie. It is cheesy summer entertainment that could have been something more.