Van Helsing [Blu-ray]

Gabriel Van Helsing (Hugh Jackman - X-Men 1-3 Box Set (6 Disc) [DVD] [2000]) turned up on the steps of the Vatican half dead and unable to remember his past, aside from the odd dream and nightmare. Since then he has become a hunter of abnormal and supernatural beings. He does this on behalf of the "Knights of the Holy Order", a secret organisation run by the Vatican.After "dealing" with Mr Hyde he returns to Rome and is told that his next mission will be to go to Transylvania to assist the Valerious family in conquering Count Vladislaus Dracula (Richard Roxburgh - The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen - 2 disc Special Edition [DVD] [2003]). If they fail to destroy Dracula they will be cursed to never enter the gates of heaven.Van Helsing takes with him a Friar called Carl (David Wenham - The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Extended Edition Box Set) [DVD]) who is the Order's version of Q, coming up with all of Van Helsing's gadgets, and the films comic relief.Arriving in Transylvania they meet and team up with Anna Valerious (Kate Beckinsale - Underworld Trilogy [DVD] [2003]) and go in search of the way to beat Dracula.The start of the film recreates the old black and white Frankenstein movies. Simon West's "It's alive" line was sublime for me (I am a fan of the old black and white horror films that I watched as a child). The Frankenstein monster is played by Shuler Hensley and Igor (Kevin J O'Connor - The Mummy [DVD] [1999]).This is the usual fun film from Stephen Sommers, in the same vein as the The Mummy 1, 2 & 3 Steelbook Box Set [DVD] [1998], etc. It does not take itself too seriously. And there is Kate Beckinsale is there in tight pants for those who like her, and Hugh Jackman and David Wenham for the rest of us.All in all it's a great family film - fun with scary bits.

I stuck this amazing movie on as me and a lady friend of mine got it in our heads to rewatch this modern classic. As many would agree draculas brides are quite eye catching despite their ferocious tempers, my lady friend also agreed. After copious amounts of alcohol during the night I think Mr Jackman and the vampire brides must of given us an extra bit of randy-ness as not long after the movie started we got down to business. Unfortunately as I decided to take the dirt road after a slight amount of before play (not too much of course) the film kept restarting. Although this wouldn’t usually be a problem, the opening of the film is quite blaring and almost put my little man off what he was doing.Movie: 10/10Opening scene: 8/10 could be less of a distraction when trying to get it on

If you’re in the mood for a stylish and action-packed monster movie, Van Helsing delivers plenty of thrills. Hugh Jackman shines as the titular monster hunter, bringing charisma and grit to his role as he battles iconic creatures like Dracula, the Wolfman, and Frankenstein’s monster. Kate Beckinsale adds flair as his fierce ally, and the special effects, while a bit dated now, still create a gothic, otherworldly atmosphere.The film thrives on its over-the-top action sequences and moody visuals, but it sacrifices character depth and story cohesion in the process. It feels more like a rollercoaster ride than a thoughtful exploration of its famous monsters. Some moments verge on cheesy, but if you embrace its campy charm, it’s a lot of fun.While not a cinematic masterpiece, Van Helsing is an enjoyable popcorn movie for fans of supernatural adventures. It’s perfect for a night of escapism, especially if you’re a fan of Hugh Jackman or classic monster tales. 3.5/5 stars.

Great movie has aged well.

With Kate Beckinsale & Hugh Jackman leading the cast you can't but help fall in love with this film

Good film and enjoyed it

EXELLENT

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