Spawn (1997, DVD)

Let me start by stating that anyone who is not familiar with the comic book aspect of this character would not understand the story what so ever. The movie is definitely not for children and has a very grim and dark story line. However the movie also had both pros and cons depending on the palette of those viewing it.

The main character Spawn was rendered and portrayed well. He was given his charred, blackened , and burnt appearance that was so well portrayed and stressed in the comic books. His characteristic traits remained in tact with the movie version as well. Spawns cape was beautifully computer generated and seemed as meant to have a life of its own. Spawn's overall appearance was that of the comics as well, and I feel that the director took great care in making sure that Spawn looked like "Spawn".

The torment faced by Al Simmons was portrayed in this movie, but this is also the element of the movie that confused most people with no comic background of the character. Al would have these military like flashbacks that represented his soul being tormented in hell, with the sad reality that things will never again be as they were.

There were aspects of the movie that were well to say the least not characteristic of the supporting role. The whole motorcycle thing was thrown on here to draw intrust and I don't believe that it ever played a role in the comic series. Another thing that was tainted form the true comic form was that Al's best friend Terri was not the right nationality. He was African American in the comics , yet was Caucasian in the movie. True to form where the sinister demonic background of the whole story and the weapons that the armor of spawn yielded. I believe the chains were portrayed beautifully. On that same not I do not believe that spawn ever had his hands turn into suction cups in the comics either.

The special effects in this movie were absolutely stunning. The rendering of Hell and all the fire with Malebolgia was done with much attention to detail. The violator was also rendered true to form . The way that Spawns suit morphed and peeled away was a great added touch. And the way they portrayed his healing capabilities was even more breath taking.

The movie in all for those of us who like the comic book was good, and is a must for anyone who is a Spawn collector. The demonic and Satanistic references make this not that good of a choice for children. Not to mention the fact that Spawn is not exactly Superman when it comes to looks. The special effects alone are enough to make the movie worth seeing and I believe most people will enjoy them. There is however the slightly grosser things like the Violator in clown form eating maggot covered pizza that will not sit well with the weak stomachs.