The Crow is an elusive enigma amidst the superhero genre. I regret to inform that I never sat down to watch until very recently (and that was because the remake is around the corner). I also admit, to great shame, that I was unaware of its troubling production that incurs tragedy and turmoil to the point of mind-numbing irony, given its premise. But the experience of research and subsequent viewing has been very interesting, especially considering the impact of James O’Barr’s work. It’s by no means my favourite superhero movie – even as I’m sniffing around for pre-MCU content – but it is the most fascinating.
Visual Style and Setting
The Crow earned praise for its aesthetic quality that revitalised the goth movement and placed itself as a wholesome time capsule. The 90s roots of the film really are a highlight – it’s a gorgeous, distinct looking experience that captures an aspect of filmmaking I always love: making the city a character in itself, much like the worlds of the living and the dead. Like Blade Runner, the use of prosthetics and the hyper realistic, grizzly portrait of Detroit city immerses you in the surroundings. You want to know more about this universe, how it works and how people survive in it. The beloved soundtrack also helps, using licensed music to complement the characters that populate this shadowy, constantly drenched world.
Pacing and Plot Development
The 90s era works best, at least for me, with its pacing. Within minutes you grasp the situation, and the core plot line is already in motion. Nowadays, the first quarter would be dedicated to set up and then the action, which is what attracted audiences, would occur later (and it seems the remake is doing just that). I’m aware that the way the first 15 minutes are as a result of rewriting from the notorious incident on set, but I appreciate it, especially in light of the legacy left by James O’Barr. It allows Eric to appear allusive and enigmatic. Even though he is our protagonist, he feels positioned at arm’s length, allowing him to be more of a badass killer.
- Action, Crime, Drama
- Brandon Lee, Michael Wincott, Rochelle Davis (Actors)
- Alex Proyas (Director)
- English, Danish, Dutch, Finnish (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Suitable for 18 years and over
Brandon Lee’s Performance and Legacy
Which leads me to Brandon Lee. His death overshadowed much of the experience as the son of Bruce Lee would have been a star (and husband) following completion, a fate that mirrors the tragedy of Shelly. It’s a terrible case of negligence that is still haunting the industry today. Thirty years later since its initial release, the film hits hard with Eric’s journey and some spells of dialogue given Lee’s fate. But, it also provides him, having been robbed of a promising career, a fitting tribute. Not too many scenes where stand-ins and rewrites were used detract from Lee’s otherwise brilliant portrayal. He is front and centre and presents a very chameleon performance where he morphs from spooky and cool to sympathetic and charming and he does so with almost contemptuous ease. He has exceptional chemistry with any one of his fellow cast members and has an otherworldly personality. From a casting standpoint, the stars seemed to line up and Lee Junior’s legacy is forever solidified through this portrayal.
Supporting Characters and Dynamics
Earnie Hutson is always brilliant, and he acts as a stellar Jim Gordon type for Eric; their interactions are my favourite part of the show. Michael Wincott is deliciously devious as the villain with one of the most lustrous voices ever to treat the ears (Clint Eastwood, take a seat!). And Rochelle Davis gives an endearing child performance to guide the audience.
Critique of Narrative and Emotional Depth
The Crow does come with its flaws. Because it’s so speedy in getting into the story, I felt as though the adventure was surface-level emotionally. I understand that the production crew could only work with what they had at hand, but you don’t get any scenes with Eric’s fiancée. While this works for the aura of the Crow vigilante, it lacks the depth needed for his revenge quest. The villains, consequently, are quite dull and are not given enough screen time to make you really relish in their demise. I actually love baddies who are just evil for the sake of it but spacious time with them is a knock on that enjoyment. The cherry on top is that if you’re not a ’90s person, the traits of this era will likely make you laugh – namely the OTT gun action, sound effects, and extra acting, which are all part of the IMDB legacy. All this factors into me not caring as much as I should.
Cultural Significance and Lasting Impact
By the point we arrive at the final boss fight, the core of the emotional struggle seems to dissipate and the only thing keeping the energy flowing is the performances of the actors.
However, one thing The Crow has to its name is its place in culture. The lacklustre reaction to the remake comes from it being a pure time capsule – the Neo-goth movement of the 90s courses through its veins. In today’s world, superhero movies that attempt to be violent to escape the norm are now a dime a dozen, which is what the trailer for the 2024 film is giving. It’s far from my favourite, due to the simplicity of its revenge premise but it is a truly heroic accomplishment to finish the finest work of its lead star. Brandon Lee and the cast help to make the experience worthwhile, along with the immersive cinematography and world-building.
- Action, Crime, Drama
- Brandon Lee, Michael Wincott, Rochelle Davis (Actors)
- Alex Proyas (Director)
- English, Danish, Dutch, Finnish (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Suitable for 18 years and over
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