Beowulf

release year: 2007
genre: fantasy
viewing setting: home DVD, 5/9/10

synopsis: Wandering hero Beowulf helps a troubled kingdom with their monster problem, and then sticks around.

impressions: For some reason, I didn't think this movie was that great. It might have been the "motion capture process" that caused people to look halfway animated - I don't understand the purpose of this filming technique. It was different, yes, but it was also distracting. My other gripe is actually with things being too realistic - many of the people in this movie are flawed and do dumb/wrong things, just like in real life. I'm sure that's great and realistic, but for some reason, it detracted from my enjoyment of the film. Anyway, aside from my personal gripes, the movie was entertaining, with plenty of action and gore and special effects.

things to watch for: xxxx

something this movie has that no other movie has: .

acting: Ray Winstone is Beowulf, a mighty but flawed hero. Anthony Hopkins is the old king. Angelina Jolie is the monster's mother.

final word: Probably an accurate portrayal of human nature combined with monsters, but I won't need to watch it again.

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