Who watches the Watchmen?

Rating: 8/10 (13 March 2009)

Who watches the Watchmen? Well, those who want to be taken on a three-hour thrill ride extravaganza, that's who. This movie never lets up. It constantly pummels you with explosive action, twisting plot lines, steamy romance and first-rate special effects. It's a visual orgasm. It's popcorn for the brain. It's the ultimate superhero flick.
But that only scrapes the surface of WATCHMEN. It's also a dark and intricate story that challenges the viewer to care for a world where Nixon is still president, caped crusaders are real, and nuclear war is imminent. Word of caution: THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL COMIC BOOK FLICK! It's far superior in terms of intellect; it may even require a second viewing to catch all the minute details.
The characters are not all that relatable, they're likable - but they're cold and distant. Hell,they're superheroes  what do ya expect? The manner in which each hero views the world is what brings them together, they understand the evil that lurks in the hearts of men.
The story is pretty deep - it may be very entertaining, yet it is no run-of-the-mill blockbuster. It isn't summertime yet, right? Those experienced with WATCHMEN already know it is by far the greatest graphic novel ever conceived. Translating it to the screen is no easy task. However, director Zack Snyder (best known for his film "300"), accomplishes this feat and still stays true to the novel's essence.
Of course, the film has its flaws, there are important pieces missing that only die-hards will notice and a couple cheesy scenes between Nite Owl and his love interest, Silk Specter, but all in all Snyder does the novel justice and presents a thrilling piece of art. Quite an achievement since many would argue the graphic novel is un-filmable, including WATCHMEN scribe Alan Moore.
Those of you who are impressed by the assertive tone of Clint Eastwood and the vigilante anti-hero demeanor of Heath Ledger's "The Joker" will love the soon to be infamous character and Watchman named Rorschach. Expect to see as many Rorschach costumes this October 31st, as there were Jokers last Halloween. Hopefully, no one goes as the Watchman named Dr. Manhattan, it might get a little cold out!
Let's be clear here, the film is not as brilliant as its source material. It doesn't break any new grounds in terms of genre-defining tactics but it manages to up the ante set by the Dark Knight, without following in its footsteps. It's darker, it's more violent, and it's more complex  even to a point where it risks alienating viewers who don't know what to expect. The fact is  some people will leave confused, some will leave frustrated but all with leave smiling :)