Beowulf

Story-wise, nothing novel. Animation-wise, pretty impressive. It’s sure been a long way from Polar Express, and if Zemeckis keeps making and directing movies this way, maybe someday we won’t need any Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt anymore, but some of those manga or comic characters might do enough. Perhaps.

I found the physical characterization of the male characters more humanlike that the female, notably on the old Wealthow and Hrothgar. I think it’s got something to do with the accentuated aging lines (and they being lead characters)? I didn’t see the female ones so “real” though, maybe because there were little to tamper with the faces. Everytime I think back of the petite “bed woman” (whatever her name is), my mind forms the picture of Fiona from Shrek. Don’t know why. Even Jolie’s lips didn’t look so full as the real ones. (We girls like to pick on her lips.)

One thing I find a little eerie about this movie is the lack of score in some scenes. I know it’s CG and all, but I guess it wouldn’t hurt to cue in some melodies, instead of total quietness. (Had some uncomfortable moments trying to chew snacks.)

As a side comment, I begin to see a new pattern of Hollywood movies showcasing machismo. Repetitive yells of self-pronounced statement that would do its effect once. Like, in this case, “I AM BEOWULF”. Not too long ago in March, there was a similar case of “THIS IS SPARTA”, remember? Is it really necessary anyway? I recall Arnold only said “I’ll be back” once and the quote still lasts until this day.

Props for the CG. 4/5.