Monday, October 24, 2016

Movie review: The Last Witch Hunter

A powerful coven resurrects their Queen who quickly sets in motion a plan to unleash a plague upon New York City, and eventually the world, ending humanity. An immortal witch hunter, priest, and good young witch are the only things that stand in their way.

Vin Diesel (Kaulder), Rose Leslie (Chloe), Elijah Wood (Dolan 37th), Olafur Olafsson (Belial), Rena Owen (Glaeser), Julie Engelbrecht (Queen), Michael Caine (Dolan 36th), Joseph Gilgun (Ellic), Isaach De Bankole (Schlesinger).

The Last Witch Hunter begins with some good history and character introductions before moving to present day, which serves to help the film connect with the audience. Shifting to the plot, while it is obvious Kaulder is hunting witches some of the important details, and even plot movements, are not explained well. The result is a film that devolves, losing coherence and interest along the way, until it finally winds down with a fairly typical Happy Ever After ending.

Acting was a bit disappointing here. While Diesel may make a decent action hero to look at, his acting chops don't seem to be improving much. Wood was mildly entertaining, as was Olafsson. Leslie was enjoyable, as was Caine who delivered nicely as always. The remainder of the supporting cast was okay.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good and blended heavily with digital effects that only felt over the top a few times. CGI added good depth to this film but also landed it squarely in the fantasy realm. Dialogue was lacking, particularly when it came to plot points and movement. Sound and soundtrack were okay.

Overall this is an entry level action fantasy aimed at younger audiences which will likely enjoy it the most. Adults and strong sci-fi fans may feel this one lacks depth, quality, and consistency.

With violence, some gore, adult situations, and brief mild sexuality, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 10.15.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi Action, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Action Sci-Fi Fantasy, Supernatural Sci-Fi, Action Adventure

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel

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