Even though I have been a comic book fan for as long as I can remember, I have never read Watchmen. But if The Dark Knight was considered edgy, this movie could easily be seen as over the edge. In other words, don’t take your kids to see it.
There have been many graphic novels adapted to movies. Everything from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to Men in Black to 300. Although I enjoyed Watchmen and would recommend it for fans of graphic magazines, I don’t think it was the best adaptation I’ve ever seen. In my opinion, that title would have to go to V for Vendetta. Does anyone else have an opinion on this matter?
[This message has been edited by philocinemas (edited March 07, 2009).]
Posted by JohnMac (Member # 8472) on :
I have not read the graphic novel. Intentionally. I thought the movie could have been done better and have no recommended it to my brothers as one to rush out and see. Though there is plenty of good stuff in it - it certainly does not live up to the hype in my humble opinion.
-John
Posted by Robert Nowall (Member # 2764) on :
I'm pretty sure I remember reading it. I seem to remember a lot about it. But where? And how? Furtive glances through in the comics store? Library copy? Or maybe I just absorbed the gumbo of it from all the writeups over the years? Either way, maybe I should pick up a copy...there are plenty around...
Posted by Robert Nowall (Member # 2764) on :
Addendum: yep, I think I will pick up a copy first chance I get. There's a certain political angle to the original graphic novel I think I remember, that I want to delve into and examine. It comes up in some of the reviews of the movie, but, given what I know now, I can't buy into it.
Posted by Robert Nowall (Member # 2764) on :
I did pick up a copy. 'Bout an hour ago I finished reading it. It's a rewarding read, with a lot of depth to it.
On the other hand...the plot seems driven by two deep hatreds: (1) hatred of the idea of costumed superheroes, and (2) hatred of everyone and everything to the right of the radical left circa 1985.
Over all that is a truly vile view of the world and the people in it...
I might've enjoyed this more if I'd'a read it in 1985...these days, I know too much to take it seriously.
*****
No, I don't think I read it before. I might've been confusing it with The Dark Knight Returns, which was published 'round the same time...and which shares some of the same view of politics.
And, no, I won't go and see the movie, though I might catch it when it comes on cable...probably it's pretty good, but, not my cup of tea, really.