Post 5: Darkman, 1990, Directed by Sam Raimi

The film Darkman is a 1990 American Superhero action film that captures the graphic look, rhythm and style of the superhero books. The movie is based on Raimi interest in adopting a comic book into a film. He had pursued and failed to secure the rights to both The Shadow and Batman, and decided to create his own superhero. I was very interested in watching this film as I did see similarities between Darkman and Batman. As many critics say that the film did not score an overall high rating, Darkman has much going on for it. It boasts the right look and even the right sound, owing to another thundering, mock-operatic score by Batman composer Danny Elfman. The film is visually riveting with overdramatically canted camera angles, bold shock cuts, and eccentric lap dissolves abound. Darkman offers bigger-than-life villains, an intriguingly flawed hero, and a tough, appealing heroine that are all portrayed by terrific actors.

Working with Universal Studios meant significant increase budgets. The film allows you to see the extensive and elaborate design builds for the laboratory set and professional stuntmen to film the climactic helicopter chase through the city. The horror, drama and twist of romance captured in the main characters allow the film to skyrocket even though its low ratings.