Abraham Lincoln is probably one of the most iconic figures in American History. Not only has he got the legacy of a great president but he’s a fore father who tried and sparked the flame to abolish slavery across America. In films, he has been portrayed many a time, most recently in Spielberg’s epic Lincoln, by three-time Oscar winning Daniel Day-Lewis. Wrapping his acting chops around this idol was no easy feat and an instant classic was born through this whopping tale of courage, bravery and humanity.
That isn’t the movie that I’m talking about today however as only a year before, Timur Bekmambetov also did a film adaptation of the president, except this time, he kills vampires. With an axe!
Why is it Bad?
The subject matter comes with a definite stretch of imagination. Imagining someone as iconic as Lincoln cutting down mythical creatures with an axe certainly weighs heavy on the ridiculous element. This would be great as an all camp action movie that relishes in the silly and profound. Unfortunately, the movie takes itself far too seriously and tries desperately to be intellectual and smart. This air of superiority actual makes the film more stupid and bad. Much like a proud man who doesn’t admit that he has fallen over, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter doesn’t revel in the fact that everyone is laughing at the movie. Instead of laughing with it, it makes the movie cringe worthy and bad. The acting therefore becomes stiff and wooden and makes difficult viewing.
Because it’s Abraham Lincoln kicking ass. Although this movie has a definite air of arrogance to it, you can’t deny the brilliant action sequences that see our mutton chopped president beat up vampires. Wielding an axe and not suffering demons gladly, Lincoln struts around the screen like the badass President we all want to see. And directed by Wanted’s Tim “try saying his last name after a few beers” Bekmambetov means that Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is stylish and stunning visually with a mixture of slow motion, wicked close ups and epic fight scenes.
The movie may have many mixed elements and you may go in wanting some cheesy one liners followed by wicked punches. Yet you will leave with a gaping hole not completely satisfied with the movie. It is that jock in school who could never take a joke with the class clown. You enjoy his muscles but you never quite got him to smile.
TTFN,
Cookie.