The name's Helsing, Van Helsing

Rating: Null/10 (6 May 2004)

Spoilers
After the black-and-white prologue (which is quite well done), the movie follows the usual 007 formula: the hero is introduced through an irrelevant opening adventure, goes back to headquarters to get instructions for the next project and collects state-of-the-art hardware from `M'. The difference is that this `M' is a young man who doubles up as the hero's sidekick.
I do not think that a flick of this genre needs a high-quality plot. Such a coherent, integrated plot as seen in Underworld is a rare exception. While Van Helsing's script is not exactly Oscar caliber, it serves its purpose, particularly when it has to string together vampire, werewolf, Frankenstein's monster and other such niceties.
The four principals in this movie all have their attractions. Through X-men, Hugh Jackman has established himself firmly as directors' top pick for this genre, and plays here a strikingly similar role, someone with a lost memory and a tendency to turn wolfish. Similarly Kate Beckinsale, whose transformation from the bewitchingly charming Sara Thomas in Serendipity to the beautiful but deadly vampire Selene in Underworld came as a mild shock, seems to have found a home in this genre. Here, while still aristocratic as in Underworld, Beckinsale does not shun from the earthly elements, getting thrown about and battered in action scenes every five minutes, and uttering quips like `I'll clip off something' when suggested by Van Helsing to clip off one of evil servant Igor's fingers. None of the dainty, gentle charm in Serendipity. But still ravishingly beautiful.
Richard Roxburgh nothing short of being perfect for the role of Count Dracula. He looks a little like the inimitable Peter Cushing who, however, was the vampire-killer rather than a vampire in the best version of Dracula (1958). Both actors however make an admirable Sherlock Holmes. Only through browsing the IMDB message boards did I come to realize that David Wenham (Faramir in Return of the King) is so popular (and deservedly so). Here, he plays Carl, Van Helsing's sidekick, a semi-comical role absolutely different from Faramir, giving us an opportunity to see the talent of this actor.
Cast aside, it all boils down to special effects and action. One comment gives a lengthy list of all the movies Van Helsing reminds the audience of. The only thought I would add is that the army of flying monsters (`children' of the Count), in addition to looking uncannily like the Gremlins, also reminds me of the Wicked Witch of the West' army of flying monkeys.
Many people do not like the ending. I think it is a commercial decision, to strategically place the movie in the best position for a sequel.