Could have been so much better

Rating: 5/10 (8 March 2009)

To start off with, I have not read the graphic novel. I was expecting a visually stunning, and hopefully interesting film. Well at least it was visually stunning. The story and the action left much to be desired.
In all fairness, it is difficult to adapt any book to the screen. Books, by their nature, contain many intricate details that are nearly impossible to replicate on-screen. In addition, mood and characters thoughts are also difficult to convey in film. But this film even failed at the basics of establishing characters and their relationships with each other. The story had flashbacks showing various snippets of each character, but their impact was more of "what the heck is this?" as opposed to an "Aaah, now I see why he is this way!" feel.
The movie was disjointed in the first third and little of any relevance is revealed about each character. When the action does pick up, who cares, you are probably asleep by this point.
Another thing the movies misses the point on, is the point of the movie. Throughout the film the audience is constantly reminded that human nature cannot be changed. Humans are driven to do obscene things in the name of power, greed, and money. And while our "heroes" are supposed to be immune to these things, they are not. The part that disturbs me about the end, however, is that despite the message that is delivered throughout the film, it is completely flipped on its head as this supposed big event radically changes human nature, AND WE ARE JUST SUPPOSED TO ACCEPT THAT PREMISE EVEN THOUGH THERE IS NO EVIDENCE PRESENTED THAT THIS IS THE CASE.
I am trying to be vague about the plot elements in case you have not seen the film yet. But the ending is not supported by anything presented during the previous, arduous 3 hours leading up to the end.
BTW, not for the kiddies at all. With a scene of attempted rape, and the multitude of nudity you will want to keep the kids at home for this one. While you are at it, stay at home yourself and watch something a little better, like the ABC movie of the week!