The highly anticipated reboot of The Crow, starring Bill Skarsgård and FKA Twigs, has finally hit theatres. Directed by Rupert Sanders, the film aimed to bring a fresh take on the beloved 1994 cult classic. However, despite the hype and a promising cast, the reboot falls short of expectations, leaving audiences disappointed.
The film follows the story of Eric Draven, a rock musician played by Bill Skarsgård, who is brutally murdered alongside his fiancée, Shelly, portrayed by FKA Twigs. A year after their tragic deaths, Eric is mysteriously resurrected by a crow and sets out on a path of vengeance against those responsible for their demise. The original film, featuring Brandon Lee, became iconic for its dark atmosphere, emotional resonance, and captivating performances. In contrast, this new version struggles to capture the same essence, resulting in a muddled and lacklustre experience.
Bill Skarsgård, best known for his role as Pennywise in It, takes on the character of Eric Draven, but his performance lacks the intensity and depth needed to embody the role truly. While Skarsgård possesses the physical presence required for the part, his portrayal feels flat and uninspired, failing to connect with the audience on an emotional level. FKA Twigs, a talented musician and performer, also misses the mark as Shelly. The chemistry between the two leads is virtually non-existent, making it difficult for viewers to invest in their love story or feel the weight of their tragic fate.
Rupert Sanders’s direction is another major stumbling block. The film is unable to establish a clear tone, oscillating awkwardly between paying homage to the original’s gothic roots and incorporating modern elements that feel out of place. This creates a disjointed experience that leaves the audience unsure of what the film is trying to achieve. The pacing is also problematic, with scenes dragging on unnecessarily while essential plot points are rushed through, contributing to a sense of confusion.
Visually, the film is a disappointment as well. The original The Crow was praised for its gritty, rain-soaked cityscape that added to its dark, brooding atmosphere. However, the reboot lacks this atmospheric charm, with bland and uninspired visuals that fail to capture the essence of the story’s setting. The special effects are subpar, and the city, which should feel like a character in itself, comes across as lifeless and dull.
Adding to the film’s woes is its forgettable soundtrack. The 1994 version of The Crow featured a memorable soundtrack that perfectly complemented its gothic tone, enhancing the overall experience. In stark contrast, the new film’s music fails to leave a lasting impression, further detracting from the movie’s already lacklustre appeal.
In summary, the reboot of The Crow is a missed opportunity. With a talented cast and beloved source material, the film had the potential to be a powerful modern retelling of a classic story. Instead, it falls flat on nearly every front, from weak performances to poor direction and lacklustre visuals. Fans of the original will likely find little to appreciate in this new version, while newcomers may be left wondering why the film was so highly anticipated in the first place.
Overall, The Crow, starring Bill Skarsgård and FKA Twigs, fails to live up to its potential. It delivers a forgettable experience that lacks the soul and heart of the original. For those seeking a compelling gothic revenge tale, the 1994 classic remains the superior choice.
