Released: 2008 Reviewed: 10.22.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Michael Copon (Mathayus), Karen David (Layla), Simon Quarterman (Ari), Tom Wu (Fong), Randy Couture (Sargon), Natalie Becker (Astarte), Andreas Wisniewski (Pollux).
Mathayus is out for vengence against the evil King Sargon who killed his father and now rules his world. This prequel to The Scorpion King follows his struggle from boy to manhood as he learns about the world and struggles to exact his revenge and eventually become king himself.
This was a prequel to a prequel I believe. Interestingly enough, the further back in time they attempt to take this story the worse it becomes. The plot in this one was decent enough but seems to get bogged down in the end by special effects and an attempt at a dramatic finish that ties in to the next part of the story. The result is a mediocre action sci-fi without much emotional energy.
Acting by Copon was pretty good and he was convincing in his role, as were David and Quarterman. And Wu was just plain hysterical in his part. Couture was the big disappointment and completely miscast. Physically he fit the role perfectly but as soon as he opens his mouth it is obvious he has little to no acting talent. A different person in that role would have made the film so much better.
Camera work, sets and background were all nicely done exhibiting quality filmmaking. Effects were well done but a bit over the top in some scenes. Sound and dialogue were mediocre lacking serious energy. For the budget I expect this film had it didn't come off nearly as well as it should have.
In the end this was a mediocre film worth watching if you want to understand the whole Scorpion King story or maybe for family film night. Advisories warn against sexual content but I really don't recall seeing anything that should limit the viewing audience much. A fair amount of violence as well but teens and above should be fine with this one.
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