Review of Ultramarines: A Warhammer 40,000 Movie (2010) by Marcus H — 24 Feb 2012

The sci-fi universe of Warhammer 40k has existed since the early 1980s (created by British-based company Games Workshop), but has remained relegated to books, board-based wargaming, and video games (Dawn of War). With this strong initial entry into the broader entertainment realm, the possibility exists for even wider following to begin supporting the franchise. This, in turn, may lead to further movies, hopefully with the quality and depth improving with each one.

The lore of the Warhammer 40k universe is deep and rich. One of my chief complaints after my first viewing of the movie was how little it delved into the nuances of the universe. After watching it a second time though, I realized that there was subtle depth, though only a serious W40k'er would see it. I suppose the makers had to keep it simple for the "un-initiated", as a deeper story would be harder to follow for someone unfamiliar with the universe.

All things considered, the movie was well-made. The plot was decent (written by star W40k author, Dan Abnett) and though the action was rather short and limited (by lore standards, anyway), it was good to finally have visuals to attach to what has been written for so long.

While many fans decried the use of the Ultramarine's chapter (in the lore, there are thousands of chapters of the Emperor's "Angels of Death", or Space Marines; each one is different in appearance, techniques for prosecuting war, and even in motivations for fighting) for an initial movie debut--and usually argued in favor of their own favorite chapter--I think the makers made the right choice. The Ultramarine's are, even in the lore, an unchanging, unflinching chapter. They stand firm in their resolve to slay the enemies of the Imperium, even willing to die for their beliefs and principles. They see the universe as black and white, and possess high standards of morality. The typical heroes, in essence. For getting a foot in the door of the wider entertainment market, it is essential for the makers to cater to the widest audience possible.

In summary, this is a movie that any fan of Warhammer 40k should see, and those who enjoy a good sci-fi flick might even discover a new hobby in serving the Emperor and his loyal minions at Games Workshop!