Review of Pathfinder (1987) by Todd L — 03 Dec 2009

Really wanted to cower at this celluloid spectacle's physical presence. The elements were present: marauding, pillaging Vikings displaying brutal, forceful dominance; an indigenous Tribe of Native Americans adoption of one 'forgotten Viking son' as their own; the lone, hybrid Warrior; a battle for existence in the balance.

Yet, it disappoints. A combination of 'The 13th Warrior', 'The Last of the Mohicans' and 'The New World' at best. Karl Urban (Kirill in 'The Bourne Supremacy') plays the brooding Ghost, the adopted Viking.

Russell Means **** in 'The Last of the Mohicans') the Tribal Pathfinder and Clancy Brown (no explanation required) the dastardly head Viking Gunnar. Throw in sexy gal Starfire (Moon Bloodgood, that's the female actors name - honest) and a Director (Marcus Nispel) who cut his teeth doing Pop Promos for the likes of Billy Joel, Janet Jackson and George Michael.

Don't judge, everyone starts somewhere. The direction and lavish visuals are excellent - a treat. But not enough to prevent numb-bum syndrome. At times the line between 'Pathfinder' and 'The Last of the Mohicans' blurs, certain Daniel Day-Lewis was poking around in the woods.

Action sequences are good, but nothing especially new or invigorating. Someone can only be chopped up by sword in so many ways. All that said, go see it or rent it. Can't hurt. If it does, it'll only be your bum.