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THE SPIRIT

Starring: Gabriel Macht, Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Mendes, Jamie King, Scarlet Johansson and Sarah Paulson

Written and Directed by: Frank Miller

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of stylized violence and action, some sexual content and brief nudity

By John Delia

I am a big fan of filmmaker Frank Miller movies like Sin City and 300 both with a highly stylized presentation of their plot. With The Spirit he's added another creative gem that should be easily enjoyed by comic book lovers and those who enjoy unusual up in your face movies.
The movie plot centers on Denny Colt (Macht), a murdered cop who is mysteriously reborn as the masked crime fighter called the Spirit. Determined to keep his beloved Central City safe, the Spirit pursues Central City's villains from the shadows and seeks to remove the worst of them all: the psychotic megalomaniac known as the Octopus (Jackson) who seeks to rule the world with powers obtained from the blood of Hercules. Yet as busy as his ongoing mission keeps him, the dashing crusader always manages to make time for beautiful women, including; San Serif (Mendes), Ellen (Paulson) and Lorelei (King), though he never quite knows if they want to seduce, love or kill him. When San Serif uncovers two chests that contain life-changing booty, the Octopus sets out to gain control of the treasures, making him the prime target for The Spirit.
Even though the plot of The Spirt is just a simple fight against foes, it is not unlike the sequels of Spider-Man, Batman or Superman for that fact. The Spirit does delve into the life of Danny Colt, but not to the extent that other superhero like Clark Kent, Peter Parker or Bruce Wayne. In The Spirit you learn about the man as the film progresses. If you are already a fan of The Spirit, this is a good thing, if not, Millers seamless style of incorporating it makes no difference to the film's enjoyment.
I found the movie fun and exciting to watch, as most avid comic book readers should as well. Miller makes the film look totally comic bookish. Using cartoonish visuals much like those in Sin City, Miller puts his characters on a computer graphic set that simulates the pages of the comic book itself. His main characters are either evil or heroic, and those in between are there only to help the plot. The wicked characters are dastardly, corrupt and power hungry while his heroic ones are cunning, tactful and ambitious both at war with each other for one purpose, good vs. evil.
While all the actors in the film do a fine job, I especially liked the performances by Jackson and Mendes. Jackson's Octopus is brutal and despicable as evil can be. He stops at nothing to achieve power, even if it kills every henchman he has. Jackson is so good in this role that he made me cringe at times. Mendes gives a delicious performance as San Serif. Her lithe beauty and natural acting ability make it easy for her to depict Serf's sultry charm, cunning mind and strong will.
The film is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of stylized violence and action, some sexual content and brief nudity so be wary of this when allowing immature children to see the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: If you are a comic book lover or you like highly stylized films, then The Spirit is best for you. (3.5 of 5 stars)