Constantine

Review by Gareth Von Kallenbach

The battle between Heaven and Hell has been chronicled numerous times on film.

From the Omen and Exorcist to the recent Hellboy and End of Days, Hollywood has always had a bit of an underlying love affair with a solid good vs. evil bout.

The latest entry into the genre is Constantine, based on the comic of the same name, and the good news is, for fans of the print effort, that the film's as loyal as a pooch.

For those who've never got ink on their fingers, it's the tale of a supernatural detective named John Constantine (Keanu Reeves), a chap who is tasked to walk the line between good and evil to make sure that balance is maintained.

Constantine is quite a troubled individual and his transactions with angels and demons have warped his views on life, humanity, and the afterlife.

Due to things in his past, Constantine is trying to right his wrongs so he can gain a place in heaven but unfortunately those in Hell aren't making it easy for him.

In addition, the rules between Heaven and Hell seem to be blurring as there is a growing demon presence on Earth which does not bode well for the future of humanity.

When a local detective named Angela (Rachael Weisz) contacts Constantine, she is desperate to learn the truth behind her twin sister’s apparent suicide. Although skeptical to help in her plight at first, Constantine soon learns that he and Angela are a good fit, if only because they're both players in the same game.

Reeves gives a credible performance as the iconic comic-book character, and whilst Weisz doesn't get nearly enough screen-time, she proves herself a worthwhile screen companion. Singer Gavin Rossdale also gets to shine, in the role of smarmy demon Balthazar.

Constantine not only unleashes Reeves range, but a fantastically freaky new vision on moviefans. Here's to a franchise.

4 out of 5

Constantine
Australian release: Thursday February 24th, 2005
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Max Baker, Djimon Hounsou, Tilda Swinton.
Director: Francis Lawrence.
Website: Click here.

Brought to you by MovieHole