Review of End of Days (1999) by Ilhm — 31 Jan 2013
The devil has returned to Earth to claim his bride and bring about the end of the world, and only one man has the power to stop him in END OF DAYS! END OF DAYS feels like a dumbed down version of ROSEMARY'S BABY or THE OMEN, an opportunistic attempt to cash-in on the turn of the century paranoia that tries to mask its failing script behind big names and explosive special effects.
Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a parody of his former self, having been given more of the worst one-liners of his entire career as he makes a fool of himself on-screen. It is ever-apparent that he is reading the role off of the page, making it impossible for the audience to invest in his character.
Gabriel Byrne, on the other hand, gives an entertaining performance as the devil. He is cunning and manipulative, but playful at the same time, recalling Robert de Niro in ANGEL HEART. It is worth watching for his part, alone.
Peter Hyams' over-budgeted action sequences turn what probably should have been an atmospheric thriller into a flashy light show with no character or mood to show for it. If anything, the title most accurately describes the shape of Arnold's career as we entered the 21st century.
This review of End of Days (1999) was written by Ilhm on 31 Jan 2013.
End of Days has generally received mixed reviews.
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