A superhero film with substance beneath the surface

Rating: 9/10 (9 May 2019)

Typically if you go and watch a Marvel film you'll get bright colours, a superficial plot, and a predictable ending. Watchmen does not conform to these stereotypes, which is exactly what makes this film stand out in a cluttered market. As with the Dark Knight trilogy, having a storyline that actually challenges the audience makes for far improved viewing. Watchmen's story of an alternate world where superheroes are now defunct changes the dynamic from the start, along with the imminent threat of nuclear war. The vulnerability of these (mostly) human superheroes adds an element of suspense not often found with Marvel/DC films.
The acting in Watchmen is good, but really the devotion to the source material is what elevates the entire film. The comics were so well written (as indicated by their success) that no deviation is required, beautifully set amongst the grime of 1980s Manhattan. Rorschach (Jackie Earle Haley) plays narrator for the majority of the film, a pessimistic ex-hero longing for a return to the glory days; his pursuit of the truth is relentless, but personally Dr Manhattan (Billy Crudup) is the undoubted draw. Crudup doesn't have to display much range, but his brutal honestly provides an amazing contrast to the selfishness of human empathy throughout the movie. Visually and musically, Watchmen is also elite - the score samples the best of 80s music, whilst the palette of vivid yellows and blues cuts through the darkness emulating the film's tone.
It's sad that Zack Snyder failed to replicate Watchmen in any of the films he's directed since (Man of Steel, Batman vs. Superman etc.) - if he could find this formula again, DC would be in far safer hands. Watchmen cuts itself a niche in a crowded superhero genre, and superheroes are all the better for it.