However you spin it, the writing’s on the wall for Lionsgate’s upcoming supernatural action thriller I, Frankenstein. Of course, expectations for the film, adapted from a graphic novel by Underworld writer-producer Kevin Grevioux, were never very high. For one, it’s set for release in the frozen cinematic wasteland of January. Additionally, the film’s first trailer impressed I, Frankenstein‘s visual flair without managing to clarify its convoluted plot or convince me that anything about the film can separate it from similar flicks like Underworld and Van Helsing. Unfortunately, the new poster for I, Frankenstein does little to alleviate my concerns about the film.
From the focus on the film’s CGI creations to star Aaron Eckhart looking out over a Gothic city, everything about this poster screams “Underworld.” And though that series is far from the worst current action franchise out there, it’s certainly not something one should aim to emulate (or in this case, Xerox).
In case the film’s poster or trailer left you with any unanswered questions, the official plot synopsis for I, Frankenstein reads as follows:
Set in a dystopic present where vigilant gargoyles and ferocious demons rage in a battle for ultimate power, Victor Frankenstein’s creation Adam (Aaron Eckhart) finds himself caught in the middle as both sides race to discover the secret to his immortality.
There’s a tiny chance that I, Frankenstein could find a way to counterbalance its silly premise with solid performances and strong visuals, but I’m not sure that writer-director Stuart Beattie (G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra) will give his actors much to work with.
For me, the most intriguing part of I, Frankenstein is its cast. After films like The Dark Knight and Rabbit Hole, Eckhart has more than proven his acting prowess, but he seems oddly determined to establish himself as an action star. The actor’s last two films, Erased and Olympus Has Fallen, both flopped with critics, and I, Frankenstein seems poised to do the same, so his continued pursuit of credibility in the action genre is a tad worrying.
Frankenstein’s love interest will be played by Yvonne Strahovski, a perpetually underrated actress who previously starred on the terrific NBC series Chuck and was the best part of Dexter‘s last two seasons. It’s her performance I’m looking most forward to seeing, though I, Frankenstein will likely hand her some pretty weak material.
Bill Nighy and Miranda Otto also star as the leaders of two supernatural groups, the Demons and the Gargoyles (respectively). Both are known for fantasy franchises, though Otto’s track record is a little better than Nighy’s. She previously appeared as Éowyn in the second and third Lord of the Rings films, while Nighy had major roles in the first three Underworld films and 2012’s Wrath of the Titans.Â
Are you excited for I, Frankenstein, or do you share my trepidation? Let me know in the comments section!
I, Frankenstein opens January 24th, 2014, in IMAX 3D.
