Solomon Kane and Taking Chances: A United Kingdom Movie Review

*This title was released in June, 2010 in the UK. Unfortunately, studios in North America have not seen the brilliance of this title. Here, Ed Sum gives readers his take on this film.

Director: Michael J. Bassett.

Writers: Robert E. Howard, Michael J. Bassett.

The theatrical world of pulp fiction is filled with many heroes, many gangsters, and many attempts at revitalizing this genre for the new century. One film that stands out is Solomon Kane.

Often the material that is made for the big screen is lost in all the pomp and luxury of an idea that is poorly executed, like Jonah Hex, or is totally buried in some gritty and colourful metaphors, such as The Spirit. Not everyone will find it as enjoyable. And these days, it seems Hollywood, isn’t willing to take a chance. Perhaps that’s why Solomon Kane hasn’t played in North America. Or maybe it’s because no one is willing to make a blood sacrifice to bring it over to this side of the pond.

Whatever the reason, what moviegoers won’t see is the fun and action reminiscent of those early Conan the Barbarian films and the original Highlander. Even Solomon Kane (James Purejoy) carries enough scars to make the Kurgan jealous, and the similarities don’t stop there. Kane’s an outcast of society and when he wonders if he’s still any good, that’s when the challenges he has to face get interesting.

The story is remarkably well done. It has the mythic quality of the hero’s journey, which comes complete with the reconciliation with the father figure and the confrontation with the devil within. Without that detail, this film would fall as flat as its North American cousins at the box office.

Fortunately, Robert E. Howard’s creations rarely disappoint. While Kull the Conqueror is forgettable, his other works, Conan the Barbarian, proved more interesting. Solomon Kane is better since it takes advantage of today’s CGI technology to create a fascinating world, and director Michael J. Bassett (Deathwatch) showcases it in a way that feels very real to the viewer.

If there’s a sequel to be made, hopefully the next film will get the attention of Hollywood. To not see this film is a shame. Thankfully it can be imported. The DVD/Blu-ray was released June 2010, and it comes with the standard fare of artwork, commentaries, interviews, featurettes and a deleted scene.

The film's synopsis has previously been posted on 28DLA:

Solomon Kane on 28DLA

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Posted in: ed sum,fantasy movie review,james purefoy,michael j. bassett,michael j.bassett,movie review,solomon kane,thriller