Review of Solomon Kane (2009) by Ron D — 30 Sep 2012

This movie was actually made 4 or 5 years ago but only released in the USA this year. In 2009 it was widely advertised but never opened. It is based the graphic stories of pulp writer Robert E. Howard who is best known for the creation of Conan the Barbarian.

None of the Old-Geezers-Who-Go-To-The-Matinee-Alone showed up, but a few of the pale skinned 30 somethings who live in their mom's basement did, along with their own Family Sized Tub of Cheetos Puffs and 16 oz Mountain Dew.

The movie was released in Europe in 2009 and advertised in the USA, but never released here. It is now out in very limited release: I had to drive 45 minute for this one and I felt like I need a passport and shots.

There is a lot of bloody action, but it comes in spurts. Solomon Kane is a bad dude who finds Christ and tries to live a peaceful life; the forces of darkness will have none of that and come after him and mayhem ensues. There is some fine acting by the great British actor Pete Postlethwite in his last role before his death. Alice Krige, the much underrated actress, appears all to briefly as does the legendary Max von Sydow (made young again through CGI).

I liked this movie and would have given it 5 stars if it had been more consistent. I think in wider release it would make money, but given that it's only on a dozen or so screens nationwide, I don't think it'll make it. If you get a chance and like fantasy sword and axe battles and magic and demons and such, take a shot; maybe you'll like it.