Hollywood releases another cult classic we didn’t ask for. Here’s what we thought about the new version of The Crow starring Bill Skarsgård.
What is The Crow about?
After meeting in a rehab facility, soulmates Eric (Bill Skarsgård) and Shelly (FKA twigs) go on the run to due to Shelly’s past. However, her past catches up with them and they are murdered. In the afterlife, Eric is given a chance to make things right. To save his true love, he sacrifices himself and seeks revenge on the people who murdered them. As he straddles the world of the living and the dead, he hunts down those responsible.
It’s based on the the 1994 film of the same name and the comic book series by James O’Barr. After the death of the star Brandon Lee, son of Bruce Lee, the film suffered several rewrites, stunt doubles and digital effects to complete the film. However, the film quickly became a cult classic after its release leading to several sequels.
The Crow Review
When I first saw the original 1994 version, I fell in love with it. The artistic style and the folklore made for a compelling story. Additionally, its unique style makes it hard to reproduce. So when I heard they were remaking it, I was concerned. I understand their intention, but renaming the film would have been an improvement. They could have called it The Crow Revisited or The Crow Awakens. Anything but, The Crow. Due that name, there are some big shoes to fill. Fans have a strong attachment to the story and the characters of the film.
With that said, the new film is almost a completely different story. Much of the folklore is totally different. Previously, after both Shelly and Eric die, a crow resurrects Eric because the engaged couple die of tragic circumstances. This time, an entity from hell is on Earth and causing all kinds of havoc. Since he is the reason for their deaths, the crows resurrect Eric in order for him to defeat the entity and set things right. Although, the two fall head over heals for each other, they barely know each other. But they do a good job of making you believe their connection.
Furthermore, the weaknesses of Eric are drastically different. In the first film, Eric suffers injury when his companion crow is hurt. On the other hand, the new Eric can die simply for doubting his love.
According to the comic book creator, “[We’re] not remaking the movie. We’re re-adapting the book.” Due to this, Crow die hards will not like this movie. On the other hand, those who haven’t seen the original or read the comics will find it okay. It would have been better if they followed the same strategy of Twisters. While it is not a remake of the 1996 Twister, Twisters stood on its own, at the same time paying homage to its predecessor. For us, it didn’t live up to the expectations of the previous film. A new title would have allowed it to stand on its own without alienating those who loved the 1994 film.
As usual, Skarsgård did a good job of bringing the character to life. The action scenes were decent. However, some of the acting from the other actors could have been better. If you haven’t seen the original, you’ll enjoy it far better than those who have.
Currently, you can watch The Crow in theaters. Even though, the digital release date remains unset, expect it to be on digital sometime in September.
Does The Crow have an end-credit scene?
No, there are no mid or post credits at the end of the movie. However, the last line of the film could suggest a sequel.
The Crow Trailer
What is The Crow rated?
The film has a rating of R for strong bloody violence, gore, language, drug use and sexuality and nudity.
