Review of Solomon Kane (2009) by Patrick E — 14 Jan 2011

There are only two reasons that I can think of as to just how Solomon Kane ended up being such a worldwide flop; lack of a marketing campaign and no big name leading man. One reason it can't be is the films quality as although it's by no means a classic, it's still an entertaining turn your brain off fantasy adventure.

Solomon Kane was an evil man, so evil that he owes his soul to the devil but managed to avoid the demon that came to collect it. He has now changed his ways and has become a man of peace, knowing that should he stray from his peaceful ways that the devil will be back to collect his soul. After becoming friends with a travelling family, a priest turned evil sorcerer named Malachi captures the family's daughter forcing Solomon to take up arms once again and free the Earth from his evil doings and perhaps atone for his previous sins.

Solomon Kane does exactly what it says on the tin; it provides plenty of fantasy action full of swords, demons, sorcerer's and magic. Yes it's your very much your typical fantasy film setup but that is half the fun as you know what you're going to get. With a budget of $45m you expect the effects to be very good and they are, what CGI there is looks very good and the practical sets and costumes all look great. The action is well filmed and comes thick and fast never allowing boredom to set in. James Purefoy is excellent in the lead role of the brooding Kane and proves that he is well capable of being a leading man. The only major downfall with the film is that we have seen it all before leading to a sense or predictability but in all honesty anyone who watches this film will already know what they are letting themselves in for.

It's no masterpiece but Solomon Kane is still an entertaining film full of action and fantasy magic. It's a decent watch, if not spectacular, that is certainly worth your time.