With the success of films such as 300 and Clash of the Titans, it was no surprise that more mythology-based films would be following them into theaters. With the pending release of Wrath of the Titans, 20th Century Fox has released The Immortals, coming to Blu-ray and DVD on March 6.
For those not familiar with the film, it stars future Superman, Henry Cavill, as well as an impressive array of supporting actors ranging from Mickey Rourke, Freida Pinto of Slum Dog Millionaire fame, and John Hurt in an epic Greek fable where the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.
Cavill stars as Theseus a human mortal who has gained favor of Zeus yet still toils away with his mother under a cloud of shame due to suspicions surrounding his birth and lack of a father. Rourke stars as the evil King Hyperion who embarks on a genocidal campaign in an all-out effort to find the legendary Epirus Bow, a device that would give him power to unleash war on both heaven and earth. The gods are deeply concerned about Hyperion’s actions but the rules prevent them from directly intervening in the affairs of mankind. They also fear that their archenemies, the Titans, might be released by Hyperion who sees no end to his bloodlust.
Fate soon joins Theseus with Phaedra (Pinta), a beautiful Oracle, to help rally the defense to defeat Hyperion and save mankind. The film has simply amazing action sequences and is shot in the muted color stylings that made 300 such a unique visual experience. While there are some gaps in the plot, the action is intense and beautifully filmed although graphically violent.
The amazing picture and sound quality shine through on this release from Fox Home Entertainment and it is loaded with special features such as deleted scenes and a behind-the-scenes featurette. The Blu-ray version, which will also come with digital copy, will feature an alternate opening, two alternate endings, behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes and a graphic novel based on the film.
I have to say one of the more pleasant surprises is how Cavill shows that he’s definitely a leading man on the rise and definitely looks up to the task of taking on the role of Superman in next summer’s much-anticipated release. He plays Theseus with the mix of strength and quiet dignity, who bravely rises up to the challenges set before him.
The character-driven film never gets overshadowed by the lavish special effects and epic scenery. Mickey Rourke plays a very effective Hyperion, mixing villainy with restraint. He does not become one of these cartoony villains chewing the scenery and instead quietly exudes an air of menace during all times that he is on the screen.
The fight scenes are well choreographed and the action flows dynamically from one scene to the next. The finale featured some epic fight scenes and some of the most innovative and dynamic choreography captured on screen to date. From the same producers of 300, The Immortals does share the graphical style that was established in 300, that being said, that is where the connections end, and this movie is a unique adventure that you will not want to miss.
