Review of Defendor (2009) by Michelle B — 19 Feb 2011

The "Canadian" look of this film actually serves it well, as a Hollywood-ized version may have played more like a bad Spider-Man 3 (oh wait... that was redundant). Tons of Canadian actors help to bring life and "normalcy" to this riff on the superhero genre.

There is even a reference to the "Hammer" and "The Spectator" though Hamilton is not mentioned by name. This film got more attention on this side of the border than the other, judging by the box office gross.

I recall it catching my attention - but apparently I was one of the few. It deserved a better fate, as it isn't half bad. Some cheesiness, sure, and I could have done without Kat Dennings' "hooker with a hear of gold" altogether, but overall a well played piece.

Woody Harrelson is perfect, of course, as the socially challenged and delusional hero. It is not a "superhero" film, but more of a "pathetic comedy". Worth catching if you're Canadian and like to cheer for the little guy.