Hammer of the Gods (2013)
Starring: Charley Bewley, Alexandra Dowling, Clive Standen
Writer: Matthew Read
Director: Farren Blackburn
Synopsis (From Magnolia):
Britain, 871
AD – a young Viking warrior, Steinar, is sent by his father the king on a quest
to find his estranged brother, who was banished from the kingdom many years
before. Steinar’s epic journey across terrifyingly hostile territory gradually
sees him emerge as the man his father wants him to be – the ruthless and
unforgiving successor to his thrown.
Review:
While in the end I was satisfied with Hammer of the Gods, there’s a brutal pacing issue in the beginning.
Anyone who reads this blog knows by now that my favorite types of films are of
the slow burn variety- stories that spend time soaking you into the
atmosphere, really letting you get to know the world presented... allowing you
feel like you’re a part of it. Hammer of the Gods starts out in full-on bonkers
action mode; a group of dudes trying to slay each other with swords and axes.
It’s swiftly edited and well choreographed and by the time the battle is over,
you’re glad to have a breather. Sadly, it’s a near 40 minute breather.
As I
mentioned, I love slow building films, but in Hammer of the Gods’ case, it’s
not really the best change of mood after such an intense opening. The following act isn't boring; it’s just really hard to not expect
some more serious action sooner than it actually comes. Thankfully, once that
40 minute mark hits, things get pretty insane.
From a
visual standpoint, high marks can be given, because the settings are gorgeous.
What’s interesting about this is that it’s largely accomplished by visual
effects. Most of the film was shot hillside, under beautiful sunshine. Though,
near every scene in the movie is doom and gloom overcast. It’s all computer
rendering, but with real elements. Pretty awesome, and the effects look sweet,
for the most part.
On the
acting front, the two finest performances come from Charley Bewley and Clive Standen,
as Steinar and Hagen. The two characters have a strong relationship together,
and the actors fill the roles well. Bewley is particularly awesome in a leading
part, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him carrying more films in the future.
Michael Jibson is also a standout, as Grim, the least levelheaded of the crew.
The film also stars James Cosmo, Ivan Kaye, Michael Flanagan, and Alexandra
Dowling.
There’s
definitely some bloodletting in the battle scenes, but it doesn't get seriously
graphic until the final act. That being said, all the battle scenes are full of
blade slashing and the red stuff goes flying, as you would expect in a film
like this. Overall, it’s the quick editing and choreography that make the
fighting in Hammer of the Gods intense, more so than gore.
The film
score reminded me of a mix-match of what was going on in buildup scenes of 28
Days Later and the more full sounding metal-ish vibe of 300. Wasn't crazy about the music, but didn't hate
it. Just kind of so-so.
Final Word:
It's not a favorite of mine in this genre, but I still found Hammer of the Gods to be alright overall. The first bit is a task to get on board with, but
it’s not a bad journey once it gets going. The way the fights are shot and arranged
sometimes reminded me of a Viking version of Azumi, and I consider that a
positive. It’s certainly flawed, but worth a viewing.
DVD:
Magnolia Home
Entertainment’s DVD release of Hammer of the Gods is presented in Widescreen (2.40:1).
Audio is presented in 5.1 Dolby Digital.
Special
Features
Interviews -
a whopping 40 minutes worth, with the cast of Hammer of the Gods.
Making of
Hammer of the Gods - runs a little over 20 minutes and covers the production,
the scale and budget, choreography, and more.
Behind the
Visual Effects - my favorite feature on the disc, as it goes into detail the
process behind bringing the doom and gloom look of Hammer of the Gods to life.
AXS TV: A
Look at Hammer of the Gods - 3 minute preview of the film.
Theatrical
Trailers – for Hammer of the Gods, as well as other Magnolia Home Entertainment
releases.
Available now DVD and Blu-ray from Magnolia Home Entertainment.
- Eric King (Brobocop)
