Review of Elektra (2013) by Richard L — 30 Aug 2014

Jennifer Garner's instructions appear to have included "swing your hips more" and "purse your lips." It is not that she is bad as Elektra, but I think the writers and director failed her by trying to create a complex character by simply combining stereotypical roles such as "mother," "lingerie model," "protector," and "ice queen." Is the theme that it take a man and a daughter to turn a woman into a warmer person?

"Elektra" inexplicably adds magic to the "Daredevil" universe. The villains come across as mutant rejects from "X-Men" and the inclusion of a woman-on-woman kiss makes sure to bring both danger and titillation for the movie's male gaze. I think that is what makes this movie fail: it ostensibly is about mothers and daughters, but it written and directed by men and aimed toward men. Adding billowing fabrics does not make this a film for women.

Terrence Stamp is wasted as Stick. The action is often compelling, but consists (as do most action movies these days) mostly of close-up shots and quick edits. Action scenes filmed at medium distance tend to including billowing fabrics like sheets and curtains.