Chris Stuckmann reviews Constantine, starring Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Djimon Hounsou, Shia LaBeouf, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Tilda Swinton, Peter Stormare. Directed by Francis Lawrence.
I didn't like it. I found the main character a bit too cool to be believable. I couldn't care about him because he didn't seem like a real person; he just seemed like Keanu Reeves pretending to be a character from a comic book. But each to their own. I think it's on Netflix. A good haloweeny film I do like is the original Flatliners because the characters seem like real people with emotions. I don't think that's on Netflix though.
Also one of the most underrated comic book characters of all time… everyone raves about Matt Ryan - but I found him too corny even tho he nailed the snarky stuff sometimes.. hopefully we get that 100% scouser Constantine in the future.
@@nathanaelsmith3553 I enjoyed it, for what it was. I can see what ya mean, but soooooo many actors fall into that. Tom Cruise, Samuel Jackson, The Rock. It's what I like to call " a popcorn movie" I judge it a little differently than I do bigger films
Peter Stormare gave the best portrayal of the devil in cinema history. Not charming and debonair. He was Devil with a personality disorder coming off a coke binge. Legitimately creepy, unpredictable and scary.
Definitely a movie that’s aged exceptionally well compared to a lot of movies. Keanu owned that role he mad it fit but no one really took notice of what he achieved
How did he exactly own that role? Keanu Reeves in that movie role remind me of a grumpy Neo, not John Constantine. Now, that honor belongs to Matt Ryan the one and only John Constantine.
@@Fear.TheCoat At one point you are correct, but most of John Constantine fans haven't heard of that character outside that movie. So, what we saw first, we like it.
@@primenumberbuster404 That's a pretty stupid thing to say too dude. Faithful adherence to original comics does not automatically lead to a good movie. Ignoring original comics and trying something different does *_not_* automatically lead to a bad movie. I've never understood this elitist insistence on purity - why would anyone ever *_want_* to see the exact same story, told the exact same way, over and over and over again? Why would any studio ever make a movie that requires its audience to do background reading of old and obscure comics before they can decide whether the characters were given 'justice' or not? It would be commercial suicide. Judge the movie according to its *_own_* abundant merits, not on how closely it matches a comic.
Constantine, for all the departures they made from the source material, is probably my favorite DC movie by a good margin. Additionally, Peter Stormare's portrayal of a certain character was absolutely top tier in a competition for how that character has ever been depicted. Super fun movie.
Constantine is one of the greatest flicks of 00s. Ridiculously underrated and almost forgotten. Great performances of Swinton and Peter Stormare are worth mentioning
its not only one of the best comic book movies of its time but one of the best to date, definitely the best DC film to date, with the snyder cut of justice league and james gunns suicide squad coming in a close second.. so hyped for the sequel. this is one of reeves best characters. even better then neo, on par with john wick.
I simply love how perfectly cast Tilda Swinton was in the role of Gabriel. I think it's the first time I ever really noticed her in a movie. Very excited for the second one. I hope they manage to live up to the first movie.
I will still never forget the scene when Keanu traps the spider in the glass he drank from and then exhales smoke into it, saying "welcome to my life". I remember thinking how badass that was as a kid lol.
I absolutely adored this movie. I genuinely wished more people even knew about it. Visually stunning, great set pieces, THE best version of lucifer(thank you Peter Stormare, always fantastic) and it’s kinda dark in a mainstream superhero movie way. And the sfx are way ahead of its time for 2005. Bloody brilliant. I hope when the new one comes out people go watch this to just realise what they missed
One of my all time favorite movies, and the lack of information/exposition is one of the aspects I enjoy most. Makes the world feel expansive, real and intriguing, and not like just another movie where everything is tied together all neat and tidy.
I love Constantine. The subversion of possession movie expectations and the Angel Gabriel character, the devil, and the way Constantine interacts with them is badass. The kind of movie you can go a couple years without watching and it’ll be an awesome rewatch experience. Thanks for the video!
It almost seems coincidental that Chris is analysing it cos just over a week ago, I got to rewatch it on Netflix and Lord.. it felt so fresh and goood!
I love the movie Constantine and have always hoped for a sequel. It’s very underrated and many people have not watched it. But for those who have watched the film, usually always praise it.
Constantine fans can rejoice, cause the sequel is finally confirmed. I guess it took 17 years, a Keanu Reeves re-popularization, the failure of the Constantine show, and a thirst for darker comic book films outside of the typical Marvel fare that we've been inundated with. I always loved the unique visuals, atmosphere, and world-building in this film. High hopes for this with Francis Lawrence and Keanu back together.
I can honestly say, I have seen this movie a couple dozen times. I had only ever seen the end cut scene once, and it was last year on Halloween. Never even occurred to me that there was anything else
Thing is I thought Constantine was a decent enough film when it came out, but as time went on the movie stuck with me and grew in my mind in ways not too many movies do. It is a lot more thoughtful than it seems at first glance. I can't wait for the follow up.
This movie is criminally underrated. I love how the entire story is shrouded in ominous mystery from the very first scene, but not in a gimmicky "mystery box" way (looking at you JJ), and the pay offs are well deserved. The way the world building is presented to Rachel Weiss's character is so good - urgent and tells the bare minimum for her to survive to the next sequence, no lengthy exposition or flashbacks needed. This is the movie that piqued my interest in occult and demonology. Can't wait for constantine 2!
I always loved Keanu's performance here. I think coming off the Matrix, ot was surprising to see him gruff and snarky and just the way he would react to certain things you always got a sense (through the performance) that Constantine was working things out. I also love when the detective tries to get on the elevator with him and says going down and John says "not if I can help it" such a great use of dialogue for foreshadowing and comedy and characterization.
I remember seeing a poster for this movie, it’s just Keanu Reeves with the name on it… It brought so much mystery and intrigue, that I wanted to check it out, and I was pleasantly surprised… I never knew about the comic book character Constantine, mind you, so I took it for what it was worth. A very fine film indeed, glad it’s getting a sequel
Oh man, I am so glad you reviewed Constantine, one of my most favorite underrated and underappreciated fantasy horrors. For a while, I thought I was the only person who loved Constantine. I loved that you mentioned Constantine's lack of faith despite his numerous supernatural experiences and his choice of absolution over punishment. You also make a good point regarding Constantine's poor reviews and how it would've done spectacular now due to it's unique properties. I think Constantine was just ahead of its time.
Peter Stomare's portrayal of lucifer is probably one of the if not The best depiction of lucifer in any movies. Short screen time, but man, was that performance impactful.
As an adaptation, I love this movie. An adaptation isn’t a translation, and I feel that the changes worked and Keanu Reeves did the best for an American John.
@@joe94c Also,the sad thing about him and his "Bill and Ted" costar sucking at the English accent is their mothers were English of Irish and Scottish descent much like my own is American of English,Irish,Scottish,French-German and Basque,Danish,Polish-Ukrainian,Dutch and Austrian background.
I was young when this movie came out and could just never let go of it. Was about 6 so definitely too young to understand the themes but the world building and visuals are what intrigued me at the time. After all the other comic book movies we have today, I still look back at this as a diamond in the rough. Now that I’m older I can actually admire the performances and truly appreciate the world it created on screen. This movie has always been in my collection and I always go back to it when I need that rush of excitement and dark wonder.
Remains one of my all-time favourite comic book movies. You're right on the money, it doesn't feel like so many comic book movies today and it's so unique in its execution. From the way it was shot to Keanu's criminally underrated portrayal of the character.
I have loved this movie since it came out, and really wish that they had revisited this universe at some point with him in the lead role. Heck, it is never too late, and there are still stories to be told about the world weary John Constantine that would be amazing to watch.
@@28Pluto I didn’t realize that I’m always wondered why this movie was so low rated critic wise especially compared to the slop out now it’s much better there are good comic book movies and shows but it’s so much with nothing really to tell or say just content for content’s sake
In hindsight, Constantine is better than many comic book movies that come out now days. Keanu’s take on the character has grown on me. There’s some cool ideas and or scenes in this movie that I like a lot. The cast is really great too. The next movie according to the director, will have more horror elements in it than the first. All I ask for is for them to bring Zatanna in and make this a dark, but entertaining movie.
I remember getting the DVD with the extras and being SO impressed by the amount of details put into it that you don't even notice in the first watch, one example is the wings of the angels being dark instead of white because in the past artists painted angels with dark wings.
I love the Arrowverse Constantine, played brilliantly by Matt Ryan, and feel he is more the comic book accurate version. That being said though. I remember liking this film when it came out. I saw it in the theater and was huge Keanu fan as well. I've watched it few more times and it's always been good. Some of the things you point out here though I hadn't really payed close attention to so maybe time for another re-watch.
Saw this movie twice. The first time I saw it I fell in love with it. Everything about it, the character, the world and how it was shot. I saw it again like yup I have to read the comic book series because I have to know more about this character and world. So I got the hellblazer comic then I saw Constantine 2 is coming and was so excited
This is still one of my fav movies. I've rewatched it multiple times over the years since it came out and it's still just as amazing. Glad you reviewed it!
When a friend showed me this movie after it had been in out in Germany for a while, I didn't even know it was based on a comic series. And I agree that sometimes I didn't get everything, but I thought that was part of the film's charm. Definitely one of my favourite movies.
It also has one of the best Devils in any movie I've ever seen. Awsome performance by Peter Stormare, even if he only appears for a couple of minutes, he steals every one of them.
Yesssss! This is my favorite Keanu Reeves performance and a really fantastic film. I remember it getting so bizarrely panned when it came out but literally everyone I know who has seen it thinks that it's fantastic. So great to see it get some well deserved love as time goes on.
Favorite bits from this one are when Balthazar gets hit with the flames bursting through the mirror he'd been looking at and says, "Fire? I was born of this!" And the other one is the Devil trying to drag Constantine to Hell, getting the bird for his troubles, and ripping the cancer out of Constantine in response.
I love this film. It's so underrated and people didn't appreciate it at first. But I'm really glad Warner Bros recognized the goodness and approved it for a sequel. I'm so happy.
Constantine is such an underrated character. Its hard to believe that there are not many screen adaptations of him. Hoping that someone buys the rights for the TV show.
@@JoakimOtamaa Matt Ryan owns that role. I don’t think Constantine 2 will be connected to the DCEU, but maybe if Constantine 2 suceeds because of Keanu more people will know who John Constantine is and then they put Matt Ryans Constantine in the DCEU in a Justice League Dark film and man he would absolutely shine as Constantine in an r rated JLD or Constantine movie.
I’ve always been impressed with Constantine as a movie. It hits the right notes on religion, belief, and consequences of actions. I always looked forward to a sequel but I was somewhat glad it never got one. However your announcement of sequel is first I’ve heard of it so I’m cautiously optimistic about it
Peter Stormare is such an amazing and honestly very underrated actor. His performance in this role was one to remember! One of the most characteristic devil personas ever
I'm not a fan of horror, and , yet, Constantine is one of my comfort movies. And I absolutely agree with you, very few actors at the time (even now) could have carried the movie the way Keanu did.
this movie was underrated when it came out and its underrated now. i love every stylistic choice they made with this movie. like you said, its really only missing some background lore type stuff that i think a sequel or prequel could totally flesh out. its like watching john wick and being given just enough to wish they they gave us a bit more of the continental
A cult hit, stylish, beautifully shot with wry and dark humour. I have watched it several times and will watch it again. Really like the scene with the demon possessed girl, how the possession up ends physics and she sitting on the ceiling. The film had many interesting ideas, excellent art direction and great use of CG.
I hadn't watched this movie since I was a teenager ans thought it was neat. But finally rewatched it again, as a 32 year old, the other month and it really holds up. Banger of a movie
Constantine and Watchmen(2009) are both my Best DC movies of all-time. I always love how dark and mature they are in their own right and this year, for me The Batman is again very close to both these movies and i am so glad Keanu Reeves is finally returning for Constantine sequel. Cannot wait.
I love this film for many reasons... one big one is that it introduced the band 'A Perfect Circle' to me and I've loved them ever since. Their song 'passive' is playing when John first enters the nightclub.
When I watched this movie a few years ago I was completely confused. I knew there were many things I overlooked after watching the movie so naturally I watched it again and still was completely confused. This movie is great!
This has to be the first review I've seen that doesn't rave about Peter Stormare as the Devil! Outrage! Just kidding, glad you finally reviewed this, it's incredible
Loved this movie when it came out. I always felt like it payed down a good foundation for additional stories. I had no idea at the time it was based on a comic series, and I just found out today it has a post credits scene!
I remember renting this DVD from Netflix and watching it several times before having to return it in the mail. I loved this movie. I think I loved it because it was dirty/grimey, the story didn't hold your hand and required you to really pay attention, and Keanu really added depth to John's character. He was always sulking and moody, but never to the point of it truly getting annoying to the viewer. I also loved the take on making Lucifer arrived (seemingly from above and not below) while dressed in bright white. He looked all clean, but still acted really creepy. Just a really good movie and easily one of the better superhero movies to date.
Terrific and underrated movie, and I ALWAYS think Peter Stormare deserved as Oscar nomination for what is, perhaps, the best version of Satan ever captured in what, 5-6 minutes total screen time? The hungry greediness that he tries to mask with some degree of restraint while having a conversation with Reeves was spectacular. Also, Tilda Swinton as a largely insane and overly righteous angel was amazing - still think they should have made her into one of the Doctors Who - great movie - thanks for the review!
Stormare and Swinton both have relatively little screentime in the film but provide such incredible presence in their respective roles. They are both the most memorable parts of the movie.
@@ryllharu Agreed, though part of me thinks a director's cut might make this an even better movie - I suspect a lot was left on the cutting room floor - cheers!
I loved this movie when it first came out but then again I love just about anything that Keanu Reeves is involved! He's smart and I feel he makes good choices in his roles and in his life. In the end because of who Keanu Reeves is as a person, his performances are always enlightening and beyond entertaining just because I feel he's one of the best human beings in the movie business today and you can't help but notice.
I was always wishing Keanu Reeves would reprise his role as Constantine in future movies about the character, as I feel like his portrayal of Constantine is simply unrivaled.
Constantine is a movie both my wife and I enjoy far more than we’d admit. It was great when it first came out, I never understood why critics hated it. Peter Stormare played Satan like I haven’t seen before, and it was chilling. And then Tilda Swinton was complimented both Keanu and Peter perfectly. No out staging, just the right cast where no one actor/actress isn’t delivering. Francis Lawrence, for someone that was primarily music videos… what an entrance into movies!!
This is one of my favorite comic book movie, period. I always rewatch it because of its vibe, visuals, interesting characters. Just awesome! Hope that the sequel brings some of its vibe.
This movie is about the Sun (John) traveling on the ecliptic. All twelve constellations are represented, in order, starting with Cancer; the girl in a crab like position on the ceiling. Then Gemini, the twin sisters. Then Taurus, the cows/bulls falling in the field. See if you can spot the other 9.... The Moon, that also travels on the ecliptic, is represented by Gabrielle, notice she only appears at night. And Gabrielle actually greets John by calling him "Sun".
This was the movie that made me fall in love with Keanu all these years ago. Constantine was such a grey character, the movie was so gritty, I still do not understand how it got so many terrible reviews. I remember watching it twice in the cinema in one week.
It’s so funny that you released this review today, I literally just order the Hellblazer comic series when I woke up this morning, so I guess I’m getting my fill of Constantine this Halloween 😂
No mention of Tilda Swinton? What the hell? Her performance was amazing. And Rachel Weisz is unrecognizable from the Mummy movies. Even her voice is different. Very impressive.
I never understood why Constaine wasn’t a massive hit. I rarely buy movies so I have to absolutely love it for me to get it and Constantine is one of the few. I was so disappointed there was never a sequel but it looks like we’re finally getting one!!!
This is one of my best movies of all times. Always remember when I watched it for the first time half way through as my mom didn't let me to finish it! Its fantasy world was so intriguing to me that I would constantly imagine myself in its environment. Have watched it several times since then and will do again tonight!
Constantine is a movie that will remain timeless because of how its structured. there was no DCU, MCU, internet hype, all that twitter talk and no ending set up for a sequel. it's a movie 1st and whatever fandom interpretation you want to call it 2nd. this is how i like my movies. same for the Sam Raimi spiderman trilogy and recently Matt Reeve's The Batman. tell your story, show your world, entertain your audience, be done with it and get on with creating something new.
I think this would have been a hit if it came out a few years later than it originally did. It was ahead of it’s time in regards to comic book films being successful at box office. There’s more hype for the character as many fans are still upset by the cancellation of the TV show, so I’m looking forward to the 2nd film just because it gives them a chance to redeem themselves for the sake of this “franchise.”
Because I'm a huge comic book nerd, when I first watched this movie, I was underwhelmed. I kept nitpicking all the things they changed and I was too distracted to enjoy anything about the movie. When it came out on DVD, I gave it another shot, and I'm glad I did. Now that all my expectations are blown, I was able to appreciate it for what it was. It was a kickass movie with demons, angels, hell, exorcisms, Keanu, Satan, Tilda Swinton, Peter Stormare and a complex story arc that was a version of my favorite story line in the Hellblazer comic written by one of favorite comic book scribes, Garth Ennis. Ennis being the genius behind , "The Boys", and "Preacher" as well. Told you, huge comic book nerd.
I was 15 when this movie was released. Even having just rewatched it recently, I got to admit, the movie is truly spectacular and a timeless masterpiece. Great commentary by the way.
I agree, though I do want to note not having backstory on friendly relationships hit me the same way not having information on world details did. I like they don't explain it, these things happen, these people are friends. Why would they sit and rehash their past, makes the world feel loved in to me.
Luv that you referenced Black Widow (another Racheal Weis movie) AGREED this would be seen as a refreshing change from other comic book based movies today. However people would gripe about the distance from source materials (especially given more recent John Constantine appearances in other films, TV, animation etc. I luv this movie as I knew nothing of the source material at the time I saw it.
A longtime favorite of mine. I own a copy and watch about once a year. I couldn't believe when it was just announced that they were doing a sequel! At first I figured, Nah, just another weird rumor, but no.. it's happening!! I'm very excited. And Francis Laurence is back to firect too, which is also amazing. This first movie didn't do well financially, so it's really all down to Keanu pushing to get it done. Bravo!
Thank you for letting me know about the nuclear test footage used for the movie. I did not know that. Also, since Siskel and Ebert didn't like the movie, I didn't see it for a long time, but when I did, my brother and I thought it was a good movie. Of course, Constatine in the movie doesn't look like the Constatine in the comics, but I think it worked all the same because the film was well made.
Constantine and Blade 1 are my 2 favorite comic book movies. The story doesn't suffer from the action and vice versa. Unbreakable and The Watchmen are my other 2 favorites.
Agree on all points. I remember someone describing it over 10 years ago as "cooler than it has any right to be". It's a damn good movie. The visions of hell used to properly freak me out and keep me up at night. It's so terrifying to think of an endless existence of what they show in the movie. I'm also glad they never show what it's like for souls in Heaven because it would be unimaginable to put to screen.
Constantine is one of the most underrated superhero movies of all time. And I can't not wait to finally see a sequel of it.
I didn't like it. I found the main character a bit too cool to be believable. I couldn't care about him because he didn't seem like a real person; he just seemed like Keanu Reeves pretending to be a character from a comic book. But each to their own. I think it's on Netflix.
A good haloweeny film I do like is the original Flatliners because the characters seem like real people with emotions. I don't think that's on Netflix though.
I've always loved this movie from the very first time i saw it
Also one of the most underrated comic book characters of all time… everyone raves about Matt Ryan - but I found him too corny even tho he nailed the snarky stuff sometimes.. hopefully we get that 100% scouser Constantine in the future.
Ffs this is just like the Star Wars prequels. Just because you don't like modern super hero movies doesn't mean the crap from 20 years ago isn't crap.
@@nathanaelsmith3553 I enjoyed it, for what it was.
I can see what ya mean, but soooooo many actors fall into that.
Tom Cruise, Samuel Jackson, The Rock.
It's what I like to call " a popcorn movie"
I judge it a little differently than I do bigger films
Peter Stormare gave the best portrayal of the devil in cinema history.
Not charming and debonair. He was Devil with a personality disorder coming off a coke binge. Legitimately creepy, unpredictable and scary.
Al Pacino was my personal favorite
@@BrandonWestfall By far.
I hope he returns for the sequel it would be a missed opportunity if he's not in the movie.
@@BrandonWestfall I love the Devil's advocate it's one of my favorite horror movies. Al Pacino and Keanu Reeves killed that movie
this is the best comment out there
Definitely a movie that’s aged exceptionally well compared to a lot of movies. Keanu owned that role he mad it fit but no one really took notice of what he achieved
How did he exactly own that role? Keanu Reeves in that movie role remind me of a grumpy Neo, not John Constantine. Now, that honor belongs to Matt Ryan the one and only John Constantine.
@@Fear.TheCoat At one point you are correct, but most of John Constantine fans haven't heard of that character outside that movie. So, what we saw first, we like it.
@@Sanjay_Singh_Bisht What a stupid thing to say. Try reading the comics, that keanu gave no justice to the character.
@@primenumberbuster404 I will try buddy.
@@primenumberbuster404
That's a pretty stupid thing to say too dude.
Faithful adherence to original comics does not automatically lead to a good movie.
Ignoring original comics and trying something different does *_not_* automatically lead to a bad movie.
I've never understood this elitist insistence on purity - why would anyone ever *_want_* to see the exact same story, told the exact same way, over and over and over again?
Why would any studio ever make a movie that requires its audience to do background reading of old and obscure comics before they can decide whether the characters were given 'justice' or not? It would be commercial suicide.
Judge the movie according to its *_own_* abundant merits, not on how closely it matches a comic.
Constantine, for all the departures they made from the source material, is probably my favorite DC movie by a good margin. Additionally, Peter Stormare's portrayal of a certain character was absolutely top tier in a competition for how that character has ever been depicted. Super fun movie.
Am i wrong to say I prefer this version of constantine than his comic counterpart?
@@stalebread9825 me too
@@stalebread9825 hes way more unique of a character (the movie version)
I love this movie and Peter Stormare but will always stan for Viggio Mortensen as the Devil In The Prophecy
It's not like stormare being lucifer is a spoiler lol
Constantine is one of the greatest flicks of 00s. Ridiculously underrated and almost forgotten.
Great performances of Swinton and Peter Stormare are worth mentioning
I've always loved this movie. It was one of the best comic movies of it's time. I'm so glad that it's getting some well deserved love today.
I've never forgotten when Satan shows up. To this day i've never seen a better depiction of Satan or Gabriel or Hell for that matter
its not only one of the best comic book movies of its time but one of the best to date, definitely the best DC film to date, with the snyder cut of justice league and james gunns suicide squad coming in a close second.. so hyped for the sequel. this is one of reeves best characters. even better then neo, on par with john wick.
I never get sick of this movie. It’s great. I’d love to see Keanu play Constantine forever.
I simply love how perfectly cast Tilda Swinton was in the role of Gabriel. I think it's the first time I ever really noticed her in a movie.
Very excited for the second one. I hope they manage to live up to the first movie.
After all these years and several re-watches, I did NOT realize this movie had a post credit scene!!! 🤯Thanks Chris!
Same I just found out also 😂
I will still never forget the scene when Keanu traps the spider in the glass he drank from and then exhales smoke into it, saying "welcome to my life". I remember thinking how badass that was as a kid lol.
Sadist
The spider "WTF man" 😀
Same! But as an adult, I'm still like "that's badass" but I'm also like "I get it, man..."
And then Angela (Weisz's character) releases the spider who then scurries away, symbolising the similar role she's about to play with John as well.
"As a kid!?"
I absolutely adored this movie. I genuinely wished more people even knew about it. Visually stunning, great set pieces, THE best version of lucifer(thank you Peter Stormare, always fantastic) and it’s kinda dark in a mainstream superhero movie way. And the sfx are way ahead of its time for 2005. Bloody brilliant. I hope when the new one comes out people go watch this to just realise what they missed
The sfx are still so modern! The depictions of Angel Gabriel.. gosh! Those wings!
One of my all time favorite movies, and the lack of information/exposition is one of the aspects I enjoy most. Makes the world feel expansive, real and intriguing, and not like just another movie where everything is tied together all neat and tidy.
I love Constantine. The subversion of possession movie expectations and the Angel Gabriel character, the devil, and the way Constantine interacts with them is badass. The kind of movie you can go a couple years without watching and it’ll be an awesome rewatch experience. Thanks for the video!
It almost seems coincidental that Chris is analysing it cos just over a week ago, I got to rewatch it on Netflix and Lord.. it felt so fresh and goood!
I love the movie Constantine and have always hoped for a sequel. It’s very underrated and many people have not watched it. But for those who have watched the film, usually always praise it.
Constantine fans can rejoice, cause the sequel is finally confirmed. I guess it took 17 years, a Keanu Reeves re-popularization, the failure of the Constantine show, and a thirst for darker comic book films outside of the typical Marvel fare that we've been inundated with.
I always loved the unique visuals, atmosphere, and world-building in this film. High hopes for this with Francis Lawrence and Keanu back together.
I can honestly say, I have seen this movie a couple dozen times. I had only ever seen the end cut scene once, and it was last year on Halloween. Never even occurred to me that there was anything else
The sequel is happening!
Thing is I thought Constantine was a decent enough film when it came out, but as time went on the movie stuck with me and grew in my mind in ways not too many movies do. It is a lot more thoughtful than it seems at first glance. I can't wait for the follow up.
This movie is criminally underrated. I love how the entire story is shrouded in ominous mystery from the very first scene, but not in a gimmicky "mystery box" way (looking at you JJ), and the pay offs are well deserved. The way the world building is presented to Rachel Weiss's character is so good - urgent and tells the bare minimum for her to survive to the next sequence, no lengthy exposition or flashbacks needed. This is the movie that piqued my interest in occult and demonology. Can't wait for constantine 2!
I always loved Keanu's performance here. I think coming off the Matrix, ot was surprising to see him gruff and snarky and just the way he would react to certain things you always got a sense (through the performance) that Constantine was working things out. I also love when the detective tries to get on the elevator with him and says going down and John says "not if I can help it" such a great use of dialogue for foreshadowing and comedy and characterization.
I remember seeing a poster for this movie, it’s just Keanu Reeves with the name on it… It brought so much mystery and intrigue, that I wanted to check it out, and I was pleasantly surprised… I never knew about the comic book character Constantine, mind you, so I took it for what it was worth.
A very fine film indeed, glad it’s getting a sequel
Oh man, I am so glad you reviewed Constantine, one of my most favorite underrated and underappreciated fantasy horrors. For a while, I thought I was the only person who loved Constantine. I loved that you mentioned Constantine's lack of faith despite his numerous supernatural experiences and his choice of absolution over punishment. You also make a good point regarding Constantine's poor reviews and how it would've done spectacular now due to it's unique properties. I think Constantine was just ahead of its time.
I always loved this film and have been dying for a sequel. It truly was ahead of its time.
Peter Stomare's portrayal of lucifer is probably one of the if not The best depiction of lucifer in any movies. Short screen time, but man, was that performance impactful.
As an adaptation, I love this movie. An adaptation isn’t a translation, and I feel that the changes worked and Keanu Reeves did the best for an American John.
Especially after his dracula English accent... if he attempted a Yorkshire accent I would die
IRL,Keanu is Polynesian and Chinese-Canadian born in Lebanon,he just lives in Hollywood now.
@@joe94c Also,the sad thing about him and his "Bill and Ted" costar sucking at the English accent is their mothers were English of Irish and Scottish descent much like my own is American of English,Irish,Scottish,French-German and Basque,Danish,Polish-Ukrainian,Dutch and Austrian background.
I was young when this movie came out and could just never let go of it. Was about 6 so definitely too young to understand the themes but the world building and visuals are what intrigued me at the time. After all the other comic book movies we have today, I still look back at this as a diamond in the rough. Now that I’m older I can actually admire the performances and truly appreciate the world it created on screen. This movie has always been in my collection and I always go back to it when I need that rush of excitement and dark wonder.
Remains one of my all-time favourite comic book movies. You're right on the money, it doesn't feel like so many comic book movies today and it's so unique in its execution. From the way it was shot to Keanu's criminally underrated portrayal of the character.
I have loved this movie since it came out, and really wish that they had revisited this universe at some point with him in the lead role. Heck, it is never too late, and there are still stories to be told about the world weary John Constantine that would be amazing to watch.
Did you miss the fact that Constantine 2 has been announced? With Keanu.
@@28Pluto I didn’t realize that I’m always wondered why this movie was so low rated critic wise especially compared to the slop out now it’s much better there are good comic book movies and shows but it’s so much with nothing really to tell or say just content for content’s sake
In hindsight, Constantine is better than many comic book movies that come out now days. Keanu’s take on the character has grown on me. There’s some cool ideas and or scenes in this movie that I like a lot. The cast is really great too. The next movie according to the director, will have more horror elements in it than the first.
All I ask for is for them to bring Zatanna in and make this a dark, but entertaining movie.
The film has aged fantastically, in fact, I think it's better now being a mid-2000's film than it was on release.
I remember watching this movie in a theater and walking out with a deep impact. I love this movie.
I remember getting the DVD with the extras and being SO impressed by the amount of details put into it that you don't even notice in the first watch, one example is the wings of the angels being dark instead of white because in the past artists painted angels with dark wings.
I love the Arrowverse Constantine, played brilliantly by Matt Ryan, and feel he is more the comic book accurate version. That being said though. I remember liking this film when it came out. I saw it in the theater and was huge Keanu fan as well. I've watched it few more times and it's always been good. Some of the things you point out here though I hadn't really payed close attention to so maybe time for another re-watch.
I’m glad someone mentioned Matt Ryan I enjoyed his performance he even had his own series that only lasted 8 episodes unfortunately.
My only problem with Matt Ryan is he isn’t a Scouser but he got the attitude down pat.
Saw this movie twice. The first time I saw it I fell in love with it. Everything about it, the character, the world and how it was shot. I saw it again like yup I have to read the comic book series because I have to know more about this character and world. So I got the hellblazer comic then I saw Constantine 2 is coming and was so excited
This is still one of my fav movies. I've rewatched it multiple times over the years since it came out and it's still just as amazing. Glad you reviewed it!
When a friend showed me this movie after it had been in out in Germany for a while, I didn't even know it was based on a comic series. And I agree that sometimes I didn't get everything, but I thought that was part of the film's charm. Definitely one of my favourite movies.
It also has one of the best Devils in any movie I've ever seen. Awsome performance by Peter Stormare, even if he only appears for a couple of minutes, he steals every one of them.
I watch this movie at least once or twice a year, it's such a mood and such a good movie! So glad it's finally getting the appreciation it deserves
Yesssss! This is my favorite Keanu Reeves performance and a really fantastic film. I remember it getting so bizarrely panned when it came out but literally everyone I know who has seen it thinks that it's fantastic. So great to see it get some well deserved love as time goes on.
This is one of the few movies I have ever seen that I can (and probably have) watch over 100 times and not get tired of it. Such an amazing movie.
I've always loved this film. Tilda was incredible as Gabriël. Always stuck with me and I still want to cosplay Gabriël sometime. :D
Favorite bits from this one are when Balthazar gets hit with the flames bursting through the mirror he'd been looking at and says, "Fire? I was born of this!"
And the other one is the Devil trying to drag Constantine to Hell, getting the bird for his troubles, and ripping the cancer out of Constantine in response.
I love this film. It's so underrated and people didn't appreciate it at first. But I'm really glad Warner Bros recognized the goodness and approved it for a sequel. I'm so happy.
Constantine is such an underrated character. Its hard to believe that there are not many screen adaptations of him. Hoping that someone buys the rights for the TV show.
I really liked the one with Matt Ryan. Too bad CW didn't utilize his talents so gracefully.
@@JoakimOtamaa Matt Ryan owns that role. I don’t think Constantine 2 will be connected to the DCEU, but maybe if Constantine 2 suceeds because of Keanu more people will know who John Constantine is and then they put Matt Ryans Constantine in the DCEU in a Justice League Dark film and man he would absolutely shine as Constantine in an r rated JLD or Constantine movie.
I’ve always been impressed with Constantine as a movie. It hits the right notes on religion, belief, and consequences of actions.
I always looked forward to a sequel but I was somewhat glad it never got one. However your announcement of sequel is first I’ve heard of it so I’m cautiously optimistic about it
Peter Stormare is such an amazing and honestly very underrated actor. His performance in this role was one to remember! One of the most characteristic devil personas ever
I'm not a fan of horror, and , yet, Constantine is one of my comfort movies. And I absolutely agree with you, very few actors at the time (even now) could have carried the movie the way Keanu did.
This is one I’d be totally cool with Keanu Reeves doing another one that’s 20 years later as a sequel/soft reboot
I loved the movie then and now, It's grown in value and still feels fresh.
The visuals and atmosphere were incredibly haunting in this movie, not many can pull it off these days.
this movie was underrated when it came out and its underrated now. i love every stylistic choice they made with this movie. like you said, its really only missing some background lore type stuff that i think a sequel or prequel could totally flesh out. its like watching john wick and being given just enough to wish they they gave us a bit more of the continental
I've been a fan of this movie since I saw it in theaters. SO excited it's FINALLY getting a sequel.
A cult hit, stylish, beautifully shot with wry and dark humour. I have watched it several times and will watch it again. Really like the scene with the demon possessed girl, how the possession up ends physics and she sitting on the ceiling. The film had many interesting ideas, excellent art direction and great use of CG.
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I hadn't watched this movie since I was a teenager ans thought it was neat. But finally rewatched it again, as a 32 year old, the other month and it really holds up. Banger of a movie
Chris you do such an incredible job of explaining things it draws me more into the movie. 😊 You have a natural gift at what you do! 👌
Was always a fan of this film. Loved Stormare’s depiction of the dark one.
How can Chris not at least mention this? I think its one of, if not the best depiction of Satan in any movie, ever
Always loved this movie and I’m incredibly excited about the sequel announced lately.
Constantine and Watchmen(2009) are both my Best DC movies of all-time. I always love how dark and mature they are in their own right and this year, for me The Batman is again very close to both these movies and i am so glad Keanu Reeves is finally returning for Constantine sequel. Cannot wait.
I love this film for many reasons... one big one is that it introduced the band 'A Perfect Circle' to me and I've loved them ever since.
Their song 'passive' is playing when John first enters the nightclub.
When I watched this movie a few years ago I was completely confused. I knew there were many things I overlooked after watching the movie so naturally I watched it again and still was completely confused. This movie is great!
this movie has always been a favorite of mine. it has such great story and atmosphere and i never get tired of it
I don't often rewatch movies, but this one I've seen countless times. It's one of my favourite movies and I hope the sequel does it justice.
This has to be the first review I've seen that doesn't rave about Peter Stormare as the Devil! Outrage!
Just kidding, glad you finally reviewed this, it's incredible
Loved this movie when it came out. I always felt like it payed down a good foundation for additional stories. I had no idea at the time it was based on a comic series, and I just found out today it has a post credits scene!
I remember renting this DVD from Netflix and watching it several times before having to return it in the mail. I loved this movie. I think I loved it because it was dirty/grimey, the story didn't hold your hand and required you to really pay attention, and Keanu really added depth to John's character. He was always sulking and moody, but never to the point of it truly getting annoying to the viewer. I also loved the take on making Lucifer arrived (seemingly from above and not below) while dressed in bright white. He looked all clean, but still acted really creepy. Just a really good movie and easily one of the better superhero movies to date.
Terrific and underrated movie, and I ALWAYS think Peter Stormare deserved as Oscar nomination for what is, perhaps, the best version of Satan ever captured in what, 5-6 minutes total screen time? The hungry greediness that he tries to mask with some degree of restraint while having a conversation with Reeves was spectacular. Also, Tilda Swinton as a largely insane and overly righteous angel was amazing - still think they should have made her into one of the Doctors Who - great movie - thanks for the review!
Stormare and Swinton both have relatively little screentime in the film but provide such incredible presence in their respective roles. They are both the most memorable parts of the movie.
@@ryllharu Agreed, though part of me thinks a director's cut might make this an even better movie - I suspect a lot was left on the cutting room floor - cheers!
Loved it as a teen, and it never felt like a comic book flick. The scene with him beating up Gavin Rossdale is still so vivid in my head 😂
I always enjoyed this film, it definitely has a unique visual style and it's a film that is easily re-watchable. Looking forward to the sequel!
I loved this movie when it first came out but then again I love just about anything that Keanu Reeves is involved! He's smart and I feel he makes good choices in his roles and in his life. In the end because of who Keanu Reeves is as a person, his performances are always enlightening and beyond entertaining just because I feel he's one of the best human beings in the movie business today and you can't help but notice.
I love how during your intro I see "Fire In the Sky" on the shelf. I'm always anticipating u to review that for your Halloween movie marathons.
I was always wishing Keanu Reeves would reprise his role as Constantine in future movies about the character, as I feel like his portrayal of Constantine is simply unrivaled.
Hi
I remember getting so immersed in this movie that I HAD to get everyone to watch it. Es una joya
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Constantine is a movie both my wife and I enjoy far more than we’d admit. It was great when it first came out, I never understood why critics hated it. Peter Stormare played Satan like I haven’t seen before, and it was chilling. And then Tilda Swinton was complimented both Keanu and Peter perfectly. No out staging, just the right cast where no one actor/actress isn’t delivering. Francis Lawrence, for someone that was primarily music videos… what an entrance into movies!!
This is one of my favorite comic book movie, period. I always rewatch it because of its vibe, visuals, interesting characters. Just awesome! Hope that the sequel brings some of its vibe.
I love this movie. I can’t believe it’s actually finally getting a sequel. I’m so excited.
The sequel is set in DCEU and we also see Keanu Constantine interacting with Affleck Batman while setting up JL Dark initiative in DCEU
@@muhammadalikhan7244 THATS CALLED SPECULATION MY DUDE! ITS NOT CONFIRMED! HES GETTING A SEQUEL... LIVE WITH THAT!!!!
This movie is about the Sun (John) traveling on the ecliptic. All twelve constellations are represented, in order, starting with Cancer; the girl in a crab like position on the ceiling. Then Gemini, the twin sisters. Then Taurus, the cows/bulls falling in the field. See if you can spot the other 9.... The Moon, that also travels on the ecliptic, is represented by Gabrielle, notice she only appears at night. And Gabrielle actually greets John by calling him "Sun".
This was the movie that made me fall in love with Keanu all these years ago. Constantine was such a grey character, the movie was so gritty, I still do not understand how it got so many terrible reviews. I remember watching it twice in the cinema in one week.
It’s so funny that you released this review today, I literally just order the Hellblazer comic series when I woke up this morning, so I guess I’m getting my fill of Constantine this Halloween 😂
No mention of Tilda Swinton? What the hell? Her performance was amazing.
And Rachel Weisz is unrecognizable from the Mummy movies.
Even her voice is different. Very impressive.
I never understood why Constaine wasn’t a massive hit. I rarely buy movies so I have to absolutely love it for me to get it and Constantine is one of the few. I was so disappointed there was never a sequel but it looks like we’re finally getting one!!!
I heard that sequel is planning now.
The effects still holds up to this day, one of my favorite movies of all time.
This is one of my best movies of all times. Always remember when I watched it for the first time half way through as my mom didn't let me to finish it! Its fantasy world was so intriguing to me that I would constantly imagine myself in its environment. Have watched it several times since then and will do again tonight!
Honestly I've always loved this movie, the depiction of hell and Tilda Swinton's portrayal of Gabriel were the two standouts in my opinion.
Constantine is a movie that will remain timeless because of how its structured. there was no DCU, MCU, internet hype, all that twitter talk and no ending set up for a sequel. it's a movie 1st and whatever fandom interpretation you want to call it 2nd. this is how i like my movies. same for the Sam Raimi spiderman trilogy and recently Matt Reeve's The Batman. tell your story, show your world, entertain your audience, be done with it and get on with creating something new.
I think this would have been a hit if it came out a few years later than it originally did. It was ahead of it’s time in regards to comic book films being successful at box office. There’s more hype for the character as many fans are still upset by the cancellation of the TV show, so I’m looking forward to the 2nd film just because it gives them a chance to redeem themselves for the sake of this “franchise.”
as a kid this movie had a really cool gritty depth to it that I remember stayed with me. Plus the exorcism scene is awesome and so unique
I remember seeing this when it was out and really enjoyed it, but was baffled why so many around me disliked it. Glad it's finally getting a sequel!
Because I'm a huge comic book nerd, when I first watched this movie, I was underwhelmed. I kept nitpicking all the things they changed and I was too distracted to enjoy anything about the movie. When it came out on DVD, I gave it another shot, and I'm glad I did. Now that all my expectations are blown, I was able to appreciate it for what it was. It was a kickass movie with demons, angels, hell, exorcisms, Keanu, Satan, Tilda Swinton, Peter Stormare and a complex story arc that was a version of my favorite story line in the Hellblazer comic written by one of favorite comic book scribes, Garth Ennis. Ennis being the genius behind , "The Boys", and "Preacher" as well. Told you, huge comic book nerd.
I was 15 when this movie was released. Even having just rewatched it recently, I got to admit, the movie is truly spectacular and a timeless masterpiece. Great commentary by the way.
I agree, though I do want to note not having backstory on friendly relationships hit me the same way not having information on world details did. I like they don't explain it, these things happen, these people are friends. Why would they sit and rehash their past, makes the world feel loved in to me.
Luv that you referenced Black Widow (another Racheal Weis movie)
AGREED this would be seen as a refreshing change from other comic book based movies today. However people would gripe about the distance from source materials (especially given more recent John Constantine appearances in other films, TV, animation etc.
I luv this movie as I knew nothing of the source material at the time I saw it.
This is one of the most underrated comic book movies and I'm glad it's getting a sequel. His tv show is great
Constantine is so underrated and one of my favorite over looked movies. I'm glad it getting rediscovered by so many people as of late.
I watched Constantine on repeat when it first came out, absolutely fell in love with the style and the world they built
Thanks for covering this film, Chris. To me, Constantine is like Dredd; A wildly underappreciated gem that needs a sequal!
A longtime favorite of mine. I own a copy and watch about once a year. I couldn't believe when it was just announced that they were doing a sequel! At first I figured, Nah, just another weird rumor, but no.. it's happening!! I'm very excited. And Francis Laurence is back to firect too, which is also amazing. This first movie didn't do well financially, so it's really all down to Keanu pushing to get it done. Bravo!
Thank you for letting me know about the nuclear test footage used for the movie. I did not know that. Also, since Siskel and Ebert didn't like the movie, I didn't see it for a long time, but when I did, my brother and I thought it was a good movie. Of course, Constatine in the movie doesn't look like the Constatine in the comics, but I think it worked all the same because the film was well made.
Constantine and Blade 1 are my 2 favorite comic book movies. The story doesn't suffer from the action and vice versa. Unbreakable and The Watchmen are my other 2 favorites.
So excited for the second one! What a soundtrack, great performance from Keanu, and awesome visualizations of hell 😮
I remember watching it back then and think to myself this surely will have a sequel
Agree on all points. I remember someone describing it over 10 years ago as "cooler than it has any right to be". It's a damn good movie.
The visions of hell used to properly freak me out and keep me up at night. It's so terrifying to think of an endless existence of what they show in the movie. I'm also glad they never show what it's like for souls in Heaven because it would be unimaginable to put to screen.
Loved the concept of heaven and hell visuals. Very underrated movie, too bad didn't get a sequel quick enough.
I was a child when I saw this 8 or 9 years old, and I never forgot it, became really interested in Constantine, from that point till this day.