Spoilers are going down.

We’re back in the action-horror genre because I needed to watch something fun, loud and with some decent lore and world-building. To be honest, I am expanding the idea of the Late Movie Night to any decade, as long as it’s entertaining. I’m not going to make any comparisons to the source material or the show that started later. Save for a few exceptions, I review most movies without comparing them to other versions (I might regret stating that later).

(Credit: Warner Bros.)

Constantine (2005) was directed by Francis Lawrence. The screenplay was written by Kevin Brodbin and Frank Cappello, based on the comic by Jamie Delano and Garth Ennis. John Constantine (Keanu Reeves) is a professional exorcist and demonologist, constantly communing with both demons and angels that walk the grey line between our world and the other side. Detective Angela Dobson (Rachel Weisz) will require his help proving her twin sister’s suicide was actually a murder. The case will be the tip of the iceberg of a supernatural conspiracy with apocalyptical consequences.

This film is loud, brash, and filled to the brim with supernatural lore that is explained as we go along. The exposition is done on the fly, and the reasons why Constantine might require something (a mirror, water, a cat, etc) are not told but shown. It’s also superbly cast. Chas Kramer (Shia LaBeouf) is the annoying young taxi driver and Constantine wannabe fanboy. Tilda Swinton delivers a terrific and sinister performance as Gabriel. Pruitt Taylor Vince appears a Father Hennessy. Djimon Hounsou oozes charisma as Papa Midnite. I can’t forget Peter Stormare in a late appearance as Satan himself.

I am not familiar with the comic book. If I were, yes I would probably give the movie flak if it was not following the source material. However, at the end of the day, it’s entertaining as hell. Other movies that do world building could learn a few things about how this movie does not stop nor does it need an exposition act. CGI still looks decent, although not completely realistic but the movie does not hinge on it which allows it to age somewhat gracefully. Perhaps a keener-eyed viewer might take issue with it.

Highly recommended for some loud supernatural action-horror. If you are fun of world-building supernatural lore, this is a fun watch. Audiences that are not scared of mixing up some religious fiction should be pleased. The casting is rather top notch, and it includes some amazing performances. The effects might get old with time, but the movie does not overly rely on them. It’s another late night guilty pleasure to add to my favorite list.

That will do for now.