FILM REVIEW | February 4, 2010
Apocalypse film proves horrific
| Contributing Writer
The first time God lost faith in humanity, he sent a flood. This time, he’s sending an army of angels to destroy the human race. But not even the wrath of God or the threat of the end of humanity could make “Legion” an interesting film.
“Legion” tells the story of the fight to save Charlie’s (Adrianne Palicki) unborn child, who is destined to save humanity. Charlie is found at the roadside desert diner Paradise Lost, owned by the father and son team Bob and Jeep Hanson (Dennis Quaid and Lucas Black, respectively). The diner becomes the battleground for the war against God. Gun-wielding rogue Archangel Michael (Paul Bettany) arrives on Earth to lead the motley army of diner patrons and staff in the fight. Michael firmly believes that humans are still good and commits to saving the world.
Written by Scott Stewart and Peter Schink, the movie is a strange combination of horror and religion. The script leaves many plot holes, making the viewer sort through the mess of facts to figure out what is going on. It is never clear why Michael clipped his wings or why Charlie’s child is going to save the human race. Most of the characters are halfway developed and then abandoned. The script takes on too many plot lines and leaves many of them open.
Palicki is great as a woman torn between the reluctance of being a new mother and her willingness to help humanity. She shows great potential, despite the lacking script.
Bettany’s performance also has high points. He is able to show a range of emotions from anger to his constant, unwavering love for the human race. However, veteran actor Quaid’s performance will leave audiences unimpressed. Black and the rest of the Paradise Lost army offer up bland and unmemorable performances. They’re one-dimensional and uncommitted to their roles.
While the film lacks the thrill and suspense of many horror movies, it is not without a few bright spots. The showdown between Gabriel and Michael offers some excitement. It has interesting choreography that allows viewers to see the difference between the angel who stayed and the one who left.
Despite the occasionally exciting action, the script and acting are disappointing at best. In the end, the film leaves audiences with a lackluster film that fails to impress.
“Legion” was written by Peter Schinck and Scott Stewart and directed by Scott Stewart.
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