Movie Review by Jeff Anglea
Posted: February 2005

Critic Score: B+

Hell wants him. Heaven won't take him. Earth needs him.

"The choice for the uninitiated is simple: Take the ride for its fitful thrills and dark elements, or just say the hell with it." - Peter Travers of Rolling Stone

"Constantine" is wickedly entertaining! Another comic-to-film SENSATION!

Although critics and moviegoers have given this movie a bad rap, I honestly enjoyed it from beginning to end. In my opinion, "Constantine" is a cinematic masterpiece! It reminded me of a similar film that came out in 1995 called "The Prophecy," which had an entourage of great actors: Christopher Walken, Elias Koteas, Virginia Madsen, Eric Stoltz, and Viggo Mortensen.

"Constantine" has a well-rounded plot, great special effects, and a brilliant cast that captures the action and drama throughout the film. However, I would have preferred that KIEFER SUTHERLAND played the role of John Constantine rather than Keanu Reeves. Sutherland ("The Lost Boys," "Flatliners," and the riveting television series "24" just to name a few) simply has the attitude and the overall look of the comic book character.

Among the cast is frontman Gavin Rossdale. That's right! Lead singer of the British rock band Bush and husband to the beautiful pop sensation Gwen Stefani. Rossdale debuts in his first major motion picture as the sinister demon Balthazar and delivers an exceptional performance.

The Comic
Written by Alan Moore and published by Vertigo (DC Comics), the story originally titled "John Constantine: Hellblazer" made its way into book and comic stores around the country in 1988. In 1992, "Hellblazer" 1-9 were combined for a graphic novel release titled "Hellblazer: Original Sins." The comic series developed a strong cult following, much like "The Crow" series by James O'Barr.

Final Words
"Constantine" is definitely the "darkest" comic-to-film production to date. Although the story draws heavily from Catholicism, the content is not meant to be taken seriously. I enjoyed the movie and highly recommend it.

For you parents out there, the movie has material that is NOT suitable to viewers under 17.

Cheers!