I've read several other reviews of this movie and I had to stop and ask myself "Why did I enjoy this so much?"

I looked at all the critisisms of this movie, and there are tons of them out there. But it was a surprise to me that there were. Not that they are wrong. As I read each review and they pointed out the faults in the movie, I had to agree with each and every one of them. Yet, I had walked out of the theater (granted, my butt was numb, it's 125 minutes long!) and thought what fun it was.

Let's start with the movie details. It has a cast that was really interesting. Hugh Jackman (yum) plays a monster killer, Van Helsing, with his strings pulled by the Vatican. They send him out on Holy Quests to rid the world of a large variety of monsters, including Mr. Hyde. His latest quest is to rid the world of Count Vladislaus Dracula. This time the church has decided that Van Helsing needs some help, so they send along a rather comic sidekick - Carl (played by David Wenham). Inventor and Friar, he adds much to the comedic tone of the movie. Kinda like an old world version of Q from Bond flicks.

The Count is played very well by Richard Roxburgh. In a very dramatic, campy way this new way of looking at Dracula was amusing but still interesting. But along the way, Van Helsing also is attempting to save the last of the Valerious family. All that is left is a brother (played by Will Kemp) and sister (played by Kate Beckinsale) who, due to family history, are sworn to kill Dracula. Add in Frankenstein, Dracula's brides and some werewolves and that's allotta monsters.

With Van Helsing trying to find out about his forgotten past, Anna Valerious trying to save her family, Dracula trying to bring his children to life, Frankenstein trying to fit into the world, Carl trying to get laid and a large amount of CGI, this movie shouldn't work. It's scattered, campy, at times stilted and over blown. With some interesting accents and a poorly written script this movie should really suck. But it doesn't.

Why did I like this movie? I'm back to my original question. Why did I walk out of what should have been a poorly done movie with a sadly lacking plot feeling so good? I finally figured it out. It was entertaining! It was Fun! And isn't that what it's all about after all? Why do we go to movies? Do we go to learn? Not usually. Do we go to tear it apart on Ciao? Not often. I go to have fun. And this movie is fun. From the black and white start to the melodramatic end, I laughed, I jumped, I cheered the good guys, I amazed at the scenery. All in all, it filled the time I spent there with entertainment. Never once did I look at my watch and think, is it over yet?

So, after looking at the other reviews and seeing this movie knocked about and torn apart, I still have to say I really liked this movie. Yes, all the flaws listed in other reviews are true. And if you are into all of that - don't go see it. If you are going to be convinced, looking for a good plot, wanting to tear apart every CGI error you can find - don't go see it. If you are looking for a fun romp with familiar bad guys, a bit of campy comedy and cool weapons - go see this. I would watch it again, I would own it and most of all, I will enjoy it for what it is - pure entertainment.

Peace


Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Good for Groups
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older