Solomon Kane (James Purefoy – Rome) is a mercenary who has lived a torrid past full of sin and murder. An encounter with one of the Devils reapers forced Kane to change his ways though. Having learnt that the devil will own his soul should he ever take arms again, Kane renounces evil and now lives a quiet life shutting himself away from violence in a bid to find inner peace. But events transpire and force Kane into action once again as an innocent woman is taken captive and only Solomon Kane can rescue her - even if it means condemning his own soul in the process.
Solomon Kane is a rare find, an accomplished attempt at fantasy adventure that succeeds on every level. It’s beyond comprehension that a film of this quality got pushed to the wayside when it was released theatrically earlier in the year. It stands head and shoulders above the competition, especially in the fantasy-action genre. This clearly should have been a much bigger hit in the cinemas and thankfully a larger audience will finally realise just what a great film Solomon Kane really is now that it’s available to buy.
Leading the way is James Purefoy who is a joy to watch in the lead role. He portrays the warrior with a calm sense of threat and when he does eventually spring into action, it’s truly fantastic. He handles all of the films impressive stunts whilst giving Solomon Kane a very likable hulk persona “don’t make me angry, you won’t like me when I’m angry!” Purefoy is given ample support throughout the film, the best of the bunch being the always reliable pair of Max von Sydow and Pete Postlethwaite.
Where the film really succeeds is it in application. This is a story with great vision and director Michael J. Bassett has managed to squeeze every last penny from his budget to create a visually sumptuous treat. This is a film that looks very expensive with effects that have more in common withLord of the Rings than anything else. The sets are detailed and intricate, the costumes are well made and the visual effects are at times breathtaking. The final battle is a CGI treat and leaves you wanting more. With talk of this being a trilogy, I really can’t wait for a sequel which could find Kane exploring the wilds of Africa.
Solomon Kane is a hidden gem of a movie. With breath-taking action, mesmerising effects that punch far above their weight and a star-making turn by James Purefoy, Solomon Kane is one of the most surprising hits of the year and one that you simply cannot afford to miss.
ShareThis
Related Content