Director Uwe Boll does an excellent job with his storytelling in this film. Thanks in part to some very good actors such as John Rhys-Davies and Ron Perlman, we care about these characters who soon find themselves forced into war against bloodthirsty beasts, as well as the menace behind them-the magic empowered Gallian (Ray Liotta) who is a force to be reckoned with.
The cinematography is very atmospheric in this film, with dark skies, mist covered castles, and a pouring rain during one of the most intense battle scenes of the film. The picture maintains a fine balance between action sequences and character development. Although we have seen all of this before in one film or another-the evil sorcerer, the hero thrust into action, the fight against evil, this movie manages to keep it fresh and somehow original. The story itself is good which lends to the enjoyment of watching the movie. Jason Statham gives a very fine performance as the man known as “Farmer”, who soon learns a secret about himself that will lead to an unexpected destiny.
This film is laden with several intense battle scenes, but surprisingly very little blood, the worst being some blood seen on a knife after a stabbing. There are several beast creatures who are beheaded during battle, but instead of blood we see a black mist arise from their necks, signifying the evil that lay inside. A great climatic sword fight near the end reminds one of the days of Errol Flynn. It is well done and the special effects are great to watch. We are happy to award this film our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal and suggest that parents consult the content listing below so as to make their own informed decisions about the movie.