The Crow (2024

Is the New 'Crow' Just a Featherweight Imposter?

Dive into our quirky critique on 'The Crow' (2024) that'll have you roaring with laughter... or crying with despair!

As I cautiously stepped into the theater, I couldn't shake off the thought: The last thing a movie about trauma needs is another hollow reboot. Rupert Sanders’ adaptation of ‘The Crow’ in 2024, starring the ever-charismatic Bill Skarsgård and the mesmerizing FKA Twigs, was poised to either capture the shadowy essence of the iconic 1994 original or completely miss the mark. Spoiler alert: it seems to have opted for the latter, leaving audiences yearning for the grit and emotion that made the original a beloved classic.

The reviews are pouring in, and while some critics are trying to find a silver lining, many agree that this reimagining lacks the punch. The third act blood-letting, which promises to elevate the action, merely feels tacked on like the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle that doesn’t quite fit. Skarsgård dons the iconic mascara as the tortured soul seeking revenge, but the film feels more like a fluffy pillow than a haunting gothic tale. If you came to the theater with a heart full of hope, you might leave feeling like you’ve been ghosted by your favorite character.

But what sets this version apart? It seems to revel in a distinctly modern vibe, sporting a hip soundtrack and a snazzy visual aesthetic that blends elements reminiscent of ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘Batman’. If only it could also borrow a sprinkle of the emotional depth that resonated with audiences in ‘The Crow’ (1994). The new film invites a fresh wave of viewers, but with a stark reminder that resurrection in film can sometimes be more of a curse than a blessing. While newer fans may jump aboard this goth train, long-time lovers of the original might just find the ride a tad bumpy.

As we compare the currents of 1994’s dark, evocative creation with this lifeless reboot, a few thoughts arise. First, the original film was rooted deeply in the tragedy of loss—Brandon Lee's performance has left an indelible mark on cinema history, storytelling soaked in emotion that seemed almost prophetic with Lee's untimely demise. Conversely, the 2024 adaptation seems more geared towards aesthetics than substance, leaving one to ponder whether the movie should have remained, like its main character, in the shadows.

Fun Fact: Did you know that before picking up the role, Skarsgård actually immersed himself in a crash course of goth culture and literature? I guess you can say he wasn’t going to wing it! Another interesting tidbit is that FKA Twigs, a renowned musician, showcases her dance skills in the film, proving that 'The Crow' might just deserve an award for Best Goth Dance Party!