Watchmen
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: March 6, 2009
8.1
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 2504 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
2,057
Mixed:
186
Negative:
261
Watch Now
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
XxKingLeonidasMar 17, 2011
A fantastic film. The story, the setting, the characters, everything works perfectly to create this dark alternate reality. Zach Snyder has done it again, creating another beautiful world for another great film.
51 of 57 users found this helpful516
All this user's reviews
8
CollinP.Mar 8, 2009
I have to respectfully disagree with someone's assessment below regarding the movies "gratuitous sexual scenes and nudity". The Dr. Manhattan "penis" shots were not gratuitous by any means, they were simply shots of him walking around. I have to respectfully disagree with someone's assessment below regarding the movies "gratuitous sexual scenes and nudity". The Dr. Manhattan "penis" shots were not gratuitous by any means, they were simply shots of him walking around. Hardly sexual, merely biologically natural. Secondly, the sex scenes involving Silk Spectre were far from gratuitous, they were side shot intercourse scenes with limited nudity, and nothing more than stylized sexual thrusting. Finally, I'm much more disturbed by the fact that this bothered you more than the excessive gory violence that occurred throughout this movie. I mean, limbs getting cut off, heads getting impaled. I would much rather that my child saw a little nudity and some sex scenes (which are natural human qualities and biological functions), than disgusting nihilistic violence (which is not a natural human function, and only breads hate and desensitization to the movie-watching crowd). The American public has it all wrong. While we should make sure that our children are indeed protected from adult sexual material, we should be much more concerned with the graphic violence that has permeated our culture and allowed people to grow sadly tolerant of it. That being said, the movie was indeed a faithful, wonderful adaptation of the novel, with only a few points lacking (i.e., the depth of some of the characters was never realized). I thoroughly enjoyed the beginning montage as well, it was quite a spectacle to behold!… Expand
6 of 6 users found this helpful
9
ty92Mar 24, 2020
One of the best superhero films of all time. It has a good story with interesting characters. Great acting performances by everyone. I like how it has a darker tone unlike most superhero films now days. This is the kind of **** I like.
5 of 5 users found this helpful50
All this user's reviews
10
KerryL.Mar 7, 2009
This is the best movie based on a comic book/graphic novel I have ever seen. The acting is spectacular, and every detail that had to be included is, without feeling watered down. The movie transitions between past and present well, not This is the best movie based on a comic book/graphic novel I have ever seen. The acting is spectacular, and every detail that had to be included is, without feeling watered down. The movie transitions between past and present well, not causing confusion about what is taking place.… Expand
4 of 4 users found this helpful
10
LEOvsMAOOct 24, 2019
Beautiful adult story with a plot that catches you and doesn't let go. Watched several times and sure that will be watching more. Recommend to watch the Director's version of this fabulous film.
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
All this user's reviews
8
eva3si0nMay 10, 2021
Watchmen is one of the best superhero movies. Here, although the characters run in tights, at least everything is filmed with irony. This is a real satire on this genre. And yes, here is a great scene with the main antagonist, who speaksWatchmen is one of the best superhero movies. Here, although the characters run in tights, at least everything is filmed with irony. This is a real satire on this genre. And yes, here is a great scene with the main antagonist, who speaks about his plan after its execution. Zach Snyder made an excellent film, which is almost not in this genre.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
All this user's reviews
10
owodoxistJun 22, 2020
Revolutionary themes even in today’s standards. This movie flips the cheesy hero perfect villain worthless narrative and challenges the viewer based on their morals
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
All this user's reviews
9
Jes1310Sep 4, 2020
Watchmen is Zack Snyder at his absolute best. The dark, gritty, depressive feeling from the comic is converted to a blockbuster. Best superhero movie from DC beating Dark Knight trilogy.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
gzayas91Jul 22, 2018
Powerhouse film. Not a huge fan of the comic book, because it was too long, but this one is long enough, not the theatical version, the director's cut.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
BananafishMay 6, 2021
Absolutely brilliant. Creative and thought-provoking, but with compelling characters and a fascinating alt-history story.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
8
SrPepeFeb 23, 2018
Una película muy bien hecha con escenas y personajes increíbles. Lo mejor: la guerra fría.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
Saad_95Apr 14, 2017
A one of a kind Movie, Visually impressive. Casting is perfect, Direction is perfect, one of the best superhero movie. It honors its source material in a good way, Zack Snyder has done it again.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
alejandro970Jul 29, 2018
Hazardous screenplay of graphic novel created by Alan Moore. The result is much more violent than Dark knight saga, showing antisocial, maniac-deppresive, cruel heroes that serves as puppet soldiers for goverment. Requires lots of attentionHazardous screenplay of graphic novel created by Alan Moore. The result is much more violent than Dark knight saga, showing antisocial, maniac-deppresive, cruel heroes that serves as puppet soldiers for goverment. Requires lots of attention but the effort is worth.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
TrailesqueMay 28, 2021
The original Watchmen comic is an enduring classic, and it has its passionate fans. Many of them were not pleased with this adaptation. Maybe because the extended DVD version was my first exposure to it, I am not in agreement with thisThe original Watchmen comic is an enduring classic, and it has its passionate fans. Many of them were not pleased with this adaptation. Maybe because the extended DVD version was my first exposure to it, I am not in agreement with this view. (The DVD I had came with a video version of the comic, something which comic book purists probably also dislike, but I thought it was very cool.) Contrary to what the Alan Moore worshippers think, I thought this was excellent. This is up there among the weirdest and most visually exciting flicks ever. The story mixes both a dark, semi-realistic take on the super hero genre with alternate history. The tale is built up around 4 unforgettable characters: the Comedian (imagine if the Joker was one of the good guys, but retained his nasty nature), Dr. Manhattan (a super-superman created in a radioactive accident), Rorschach (an uncompromising crime fighter with a mask made up of ever shifting Rorschach ink blots), and Adrian Veidt (a cold genius who comes up with a unique and horrible way to save the human race from itself). One could complain about some unnecessary violence and the treatment of a couple of the female characters - point taken there - but this is still a festival of stunning imagery and unique storytelling.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
MinaTalaatOct 20, 2018
Deep story, great director, amazing plot and super visual effects = the best movie based on a comic book and/or graphic novel. I didn't feel like it's a movie I believed it lived in it. absolutely had an impact on me.can't express anymore allDeep story, great director, amazing plot and super visual effects = the best movie based on a comic book and/or graphic novel. I didn't feel like it's a movie I believed it lived in it. absolutely had an impact on me.can't express anymore all I can tell awesome movie.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
gcox24Apr 1, 2018
Great story with cool characters but not as good as the graphic novel. One of the best superhero movies ever
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
ValBalAug 27, 2020
Visually stunning and thought provoking, Snyder's Watchmen is a unique super hero film that stands out.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
alemoriconiMar 1, 2019
A well-planned adaptation of a nearly-impossible-to-adapt graphic novel. Even if many people (and Alan Moore himself) are convinced that the graphic novel is the best and only possible medium for this story, it doesn't give the film lessA well-planned adaptation of a nearly-impossible-to-adapt graphic novel. Even if many people (and Alan Moore himself) are convinced that the graphic novel is the best and only possible medium for this story, it doesn't give the film less value. It had to adapt something, and it did in a coherent way.
The most important feature of the graphic novel, three-dimensional characters and philosophy guiding their action, is maintained. The core message is maintained. Many bad reviews come from either people who did not appreciate the graphic novel (hard to imagine, but they exist), or from overly-affectionate fans of it.
It is a ground-breaking superhero movie, cleverly adapted form a ground-breaking graphic novel.
What else?… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
Marti3PMar 8, 2019
Loved the Movie, not as good as the original graphic novel of course but I think it was a good adaptation.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
VasandrakeOct 23, 2019
Watchmen (2009) is the best comic book adaptation there will be period. Even improving upon the source material.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
9
RobwinzAug 2, 2020
Yeah, human bean juice.
Watchmen, this movie is just brilliant. The movie's got an amazing plot twist, which is built up so well. The cast's acting throughout this movie is pretty solid and so is the dialogue, the dialogue is really good.Yeah, human bean juice.
Watchmen, this movie is just brilliant. The movie's got an amazing plot twist, which is built up so well. The cast's acting throughout this movie is pretty solid and so is the dialogue, the dialogue is really good.

Also, the action sequences throughout this movie are very graphic, brutal and gory but they're outstandingly good, especially that prison cell scene.

The cinematography from Larry Fong is pretty good and he captures the scenes pretty well, either that being a scene with the main characters or a graphic action sequence.

Finally, the movie's got a great soundtrack, I think that's another positive for this movie, it's got some amazing songs from start to finish.

The only two negative's, I've got with this movie would have to be why does Rorschach (Jackie Earle Haley) sound so much like Batman throughout this movie, don't get me wrong he's a brilliant character throughout this movie but why does he sound so much like Batman.

The final negative, I've got with this movie would have to be, why the **** did they use Simon and Garfunkel - The Song Of Silence. The song doesn't make you feel sad at all, all it does, is that it makes you feel the complete opposite. It makes you laugh instead of feel upset, the reason being for this is because on how much it's been memed to death, lol.

Overall, Watchmen is a brilliant movie. The movie's got an amazing plot twist, pretty solid acting, great dialogue, very graphic and brutal action sequences. The movie's also got some pretty good cinematography and it's even got a great soundtrack. It's honestly worth the watch, I'd highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys very graphic and brutal movie's with an amazing plot twist.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
pur__0_0__Apr 20, 2021
I learnt about Watchmen when I was in my first year at college. One of my friends had recently received the graphic novel as a present and he would often bring it. I was curious to know what the graphic novel was about, so I looked it up, andI learnt about Watchmen when I was in my first year at college. One of my friends had recently received the graphic novel as a present and he would often bring it. I was curious to know what the graphic novel was about, so I looked it up, and that's how I discovered this movie. I wasn't much into superhero genre before this, so I decided to take a look at it. Back then I thought this was a great story, and after having read the original graphic novel, I think it's a great adaptation.

In the opening scenes the Minutemen are summarised with the song "For the times they are a-changin'" playing in the background. It was so cool to watch. It doesn't matter whether you like Zack Snyder's movies or not. One thing you do have to admit is that his opening scenes are always awesome. And this one is the one that absolutely nails it.

The costumes have been made either very faithful to the comic book counterparts like those of Silk Spectre II and The Comedian, or have been improvised as in the case of Ozymandias and Night Owl II. Dr Manhattan's "thing" is surely a bit distracting, but I was able to ignore it after a while. Rorschach was my favourite character in this movie. The one criticism this movie gets is that he was portrayed to be a badass dude instead of a self centred hypocrite that he was in the graphic novel, and I completely understand this. But I also like this interpretation. Since most of the story is centred over Rorschach figuring out about The Comedian's death, he has to look as interesting as possible in order to keep the audience engaged.

Another criticism this movie often gets is that it was unable to capture the visual essense of the graphic novel, which I completely disagree with. The graphic novel has an 80's styled drawing. Why would you want this movie to be made with that style? It is a good thing that this movie didn't go for the same visual style. This criticism is the equivalent of "why Wolverine doesn't wear his comic book costume in the movies". Dude things have to be changed in order to be adapted on the big screen. It's also the reason why the giant squid was replaced with a nuclear bomb. A giant squid sounds very funny instead of serious. No country would take any big action in case that happens.

If you're watching this movie for the first time, I'd say you should try the Director's Cut first. If you have no problem with the length of the movie and you can see and understand everything that you see in complicated movies, I'd say you should go with the Ultimate Cut. I watched the Ultimate Cut. Initially I was bored because of how the story was dragging on, but slowly everything started to make sense. I really like all the action scenes in this movie, and often go back to watching it just for the old time's sake.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
Leonhart486Jun 26, 2020
This is my favorite "superhero movie" of all time. I didn't watch it for a year or two after release, because of low critic scores (and mature content, I was like 15 at the time).I'm glad I eventually gave it a chance though. Its very darkThis is my favorite "superhero movie" of all time. I didn't watch it for a year or two after release, because of low critic scores (and mature content, I was like 15 at the time).I'm glad I eventually gave it a chance though. Its very dark and adult, definitely not for everyone, but in my mind its as true to the comic as an adaption of this work for the big screen could be. Some notable changes were made, one in particular was controversial with comic book fans, but I view these as necessary for the comic to work in a modern movie. The acting is great, the dialogue well-written, the score is perfection. I can't recommend it highly enough.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
Cementer200Sep 21, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really love this movie. the story is incredible I love how it ends. I love how the characters are moral grey they are morally challenged throughout the movie.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
lilliamMar 20, 2021
I absolutely adore this film. I read the comic ages ago, so I don't remember it well enough to say if this film is a faithful adaptation of it or not. I do remember the art style was very austere and realistic, while the movie chooses anI absolutely adore this film. I read the comic ages ago, so I don't remember it well enough to say if this film is a faithful adaptation of it or not. I do remember the art style was very austere and realistic, while the movie chooses an aesthetic and style that are much more flamboyant (yet mega-gritty), including the action sequences. For some comic fans that might be a terrible sin. All I can say is the movie works for me, specially the ultimate cut with the animation segments.
I heard someone on youtube -can't remember who- say that while the comic was a commentary on superhero comics, this movie is a commentary on superhero movies, which does make sense when you think about it.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
10
mikeyorgMar 28, 2021
An amazing take on a comic masterpiece. May be slow for some but I feel that the pacing is perfect for the feel of the graphic novel.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
8
ChadS.Mar 7, 2009
Pants, stat! The glowing blue man with the transluscent appendage needs a pair of pants, like the lemur from "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" needs pants. Adrian(Matthew Goode) probably doesn't mind that the homoeroticism of "300" escaped Pants, stat! The glowing blue man with the transluscent appendage needs a pair of pants, like the lemur from "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" needs pants. Adrian(Matthew Goode) probably doesn't mind that the homoeroticism of "300" escaped its reels and found a new home, in which Dr. Manhattan's nudism probably throws the other Watchmen into a homosexual panic. Quite pointedly, Adrian seems to know Dr. Manhattan(Billy Crudup) better than Laurie(Malin Akerman). While the girlfriend claims that the ultramarine entity is devoid of any compassion towards mankind, Adrian's alter-ego, Ozymanidas, notices the worry creases in the former Jon Osterman's face whenever he's vexed. The Alexander-wannabe watches men, closely. But Laurie should be one to talk, the daring rescue of some people trapped in a burning high-rise that she and Dan a.k.a. Night Owl(Patrick Wilson) attend to, seems more about correcting her new beau's impotence and gettin' their middle-aged ya-yas out, than being selfless and valiant in a derring-do mission in the night air of this alternative New York. It's mere foreplay: the superhero suits they run around in are nothing more than provocative get-ups to get them in the mood. There's something faintly "Seinfeld"-esque about Night Owl and Silk Spectre, and "Watchmen", in general. Like the characters in the Larry David-created sitcom, these superheroes are more interested in saving their own skins- Rorschach(James Earl Haley) warns the other Watchmen about an assassination plot- than saving the skins of others. How apropos that there's a Comedian(Jeffrey Dean Morgan) present. During the interim years of Allan Moore and David Gibbons' breakthrough graphic novel being stuck in developmental hell, Terry Zwigoff's adaptation of Daniel Clowes' "Ghost World" had already lured a portion of the literati into accepting the long-form comic book as a viable art form. "Watchmen" won't convert the holdover naysayers(who pooh-pooh the thought of the comic book as literature, although Allison Bechdel's "Fun Home" and Adrian Tomine's "Shortcomings" are changing more minds), which is a crying shame, since in most fanboy circles, this is the standard-bearer. While it falls short on vision, "Watchmen", more or less, holds your interest for over two hours-plus, and that's no small feat. But still, the bloated thing lacks true transcendence(for instance, the Saul Bellow army won't lay down their dog-eared copies of "The Adventures of Augie March" for this); it's just a comic book movie, albeit a reasonably smart one(not smarter than "Ironman"). And it bears repeating: pants, stat!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
WayneAMar 12, 2009
Great adult oriented superhero flick. Purists to the graohic novel either say he was too faithful or not faithful enough. I loved the source material but kept that seperate in my mind while watching the movie and loved the movie. Bravo for Great adult oriented superhero flick. Purists to the graohic novel either say he was too faithful or not faithful enough. I loved the source material but kept that seperate in my mind while watching the movie and loved the movie. Bravo for giving us a R rated superhero flick.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
SathielJul 10, 2019
If there's one film from the superhero genre which can be taken seriously, as a testament of what this genre can achieve, it's Watchmen.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
TheMoeJan 4, 2017
Watchmen is the most underrated book to adaptation ever. The cast did a great job but the MVP is Zack Snyder, who does an amazing job of creating an almost perfect film.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
8
arrivistDec 26, 2019
WATCHMEN: The Ultimate Cut. One of the most visually stunning action films ever made. Snyder really is a cinematographic master. The fight scenes are brilliantly choreographed into a hyper-reality. Although the score is a little misplacedWATCHMEN: The Ultimate Cut. One of the most visually stunning action films ever made. Snyder really is a cinematographic master. The fight scenes are brilliantly choreographed into a hyper-reality. Although the score is a little misplaced and the ending differs, this film really does do justice to the graphic novel, which I have read many times. It's a shame critics shat on this, as they did with Batman vs Superman.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
9
GrantD243Jun 26, 2019
Maybe it's because it's different from the typical Marvel and DC films that have been released recently, but I really enjoyed how different and gritty this film is. I understand and recognize some of its flaws, but it currently stands as oneMaybe it's because it's different from the typical Marvel and DC films that have been released recently, but I really enjoyed how different and gritty this film is. I understand and recognize some of its flaws, but it currently stands as one of my favorite superhero films.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
9
NoahboyJul 25, 2019
An amazingly dark take on the superhero genre that Snyder somehow couldn't replicate in his DC films.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
zNeverSleepingOct 18, 2019
Simplesmente espetacular!

Se tratando de filmes sobre heróis, a DC, quando faz um trabalho bem feito, separa os homens das crianças. O filme é magnífico. O universo apresentado é mais fidedigno do que eu imaginaria. Os personagens são clarasSimplesmente espetacular!

Se tratando de filmes sobre heróis, a DC, quando faz um trabalho bem feito, separa os homens das crianças. O filme é magnífico. O universo apresentado é mais fidedigno do que eu imaginaria. Os personagens são claras representações em impasse, desde o moralista até o idealista. O filme, na sua versão Ultimate Cut, tem mais de 3h30 de duração, porém, com um enredo tão bem amarrado e construído, parece um filme de 2h e olhe lá. Cada cena tem sua importância, sinto que nada foi mostrado atoa. Não é por menos que esse filme tem diversas cenas marcantes que, por si só, já garantem um fator replay maravilhoso. Fora todos os dilemas éticos e morais que o filme poe em discussão, fazendo com que sua interpretação mude de acordo com o tempo, afinal, todos nós amadurecemos, sendo quase que obrigatório revê-lo após alguns anos.

Enfim, totalmente recomendado.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
hollowMaskApr 30, 2019
The source material was translated to the screen with the reverence it deserved. This film is art.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
10
kuhl99Sep 27, 2020
The Greatest Superhero film of all time! This is what all hero films should try to be.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
9
Pluto744Jun 22, 2021
●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●¡●
:;:;:;:;:;;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
9
Socket84Sep 13, 2021
*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*"*"*"*"*"*"*;*;*;*;*;:*:*;*;*;*;*;*;*;*;*
☆⊙°•☆⊙°••°⊙☆☆⊙°••°⊙☆☆⊙°•☆⊙°°¡
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
rotkuAug 7, 2011
Alternative take on superhero movies with plenty of darkness in the characters and good use of the heroes interacting with moments in history. In fact some of their actions would cause you to question if they are even the good guys whichAlternative take on superhero movies with plenty of darkness in the characters and good use of the heroes interacting with moments in history. In fact some of their actions would cause you to question if they are even the good guys which added more of a human element to them. A good sci-fi movie which rises above the usual run of the mill plots.… Expand
7 of 9 users found this helpful72
All this user's reviews
10
kSumJun 8, 2013
Watchmen is a halluzinogene, sharp and sterile adaption of the comics, which were regarded of being not filmable. But Zack Snyder's creation lives through the pain and insanity the fallen heroes are exposed to.
It is probably the best film IWatchmen is a halluzinogene, sharp and sterile adaption of the comics, which were regarded of being not filmable. But Zack Snyder's creation lives through the pain and insanity the fallen heroes are exposed to.
It is probably the best film I have ever seen.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
All this user's reviews
10
mams2000Nov 3, 2015
Amazing movie. Scott Snyder did an amazing job to adapt Alan Moore's Masterpiece and brought us a better ending. In my opinion, it is by far the best hero movie.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
All this user's reviews
7
noob328Dec 8, 2020
this film is really good and faithful to the source material but the fanbase is really toxic. they would scream at anyone who dares to criticize this film
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
All this user's reviews
8
grandpajoe6191Sep 21, 2011
Zack Snyder's "Watchmen" has it all; the dark tone/environment, insanely deep characters, powerful action, and profround ideas. It's very obedient to the comic and serves its purpose as a translator of modern heroes and what they represent toZack Snyder's "Watchmen" has it all; the dark tone/environment, insanely deep characters, powerful action, and profround ideas. It's very obedient to the comic and serves its purpose as a translator of modern heroes and what they represent to the society.… Expand
13 of 19 users found this helpful136
All this user's reviews
10
TheCritic1Sep 30, 2011
I'm going to sum this up in two words: The best. By that, I mean this is the best superhero movie I have ever seen ( compared to the Spider man movies, which were very bad). Watchmen isn't just superhero movie, it is THE superhero movie.
4 of 6 users found this helpful42
All this user's reviews
10
mitchellowenMar 7, 2009
Definitely one of the best comic book movies to date. It admittedly falls apart once it starts rushing things after the prison break scene, but the first two hours are so beautifully done, it makes up for it. Best viewed as an homage to theDefinitely one of the best comic book movies to date. It admittedly falls apart once it starts rushing things after the prison break scene, but the first two hours are so beautifully done, it makes up for it. Best viewed as an homage to the book. Voted 10 to balance out this ridiculous 56.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful
10
asylumspadezNov 20, 2011
IMO its the best film based off a comic book/graphic novel of all time. I had no idea what the Watchmen was about until I bought it on DVD and I watched it with my siblings and we were all blown away by how good it was. We all enjoyed it fromIMO its the best film based off a comic book/graphic novel of all time. I had no idea what the Watchmen was about until I bought it on DVD and I watched it with my siblings and we were all blown away by how good it was. We all enjoyed it from start to finish and I am sure a lot of others would too.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
All this user's reviews
9
potatoes351Jan 26, 2013
1985, the world is on the brink of nuclear war. After a superhero named the Comedian is killed, the rest of the superheroes that form the Watchmen must reunite to track down the killer and stop world war 3. A dark, gritty, ultra-violent1985, the world is on the brink of nuclear war. After a superhero named the Comedian is killed, the rest of the superheroes that form the Watchmen must reunite to track down the killer and stop world war 3. A dark, gritty, ultra-violent superhero story full of blood, guts, slaughter and sex, Watchmen is the superhero film for adults only. A great action film with a brilliant cast, great director and epic cinematography. Only drawback to the film is the heavy use of 80's politics, which if you are not overly clear on can become too much to handle.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
All this user's reviews
6
Bruce722Nov 29, 2012
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was a very disappointing book-to-film portrayal. Not only do they include the only stupid element from the book (Jon's ability to see into the future which I fully expected them to keep) but they also changed some things for the worst. For one, unlike in the book where there is some foreshadowing but the twist is still somewhat of a surprise, this movie gives away the identity of the villain pretty much from the beginning. Also, they give the characters superhuman abilities for some reason that, other than one minor glitch in the end of the book, never actually existed. Rorschach can't leap 10 feet into the air at will, Adrian Veidt isn't a superhero, etc. This not only made a dark and realistic world silly but it also made the closing sequence of the film incredibly retarded. And speaking of Veidt, this was by far the worst casting of all of the characters. In the book, Adrian Veidt appeared to be a "larger than life" person, not just in terms of his celebrity and persona but also in terms of his physical appearance. The dude was a big, strong, and intimidating person but Matthew Goode looks like a dorky little twerp. Malin Akerman also wasn't a great selection but she at least pulled of the role of Laurie Jupiter decent enough. The rest of the casting was fantastic and they nailed the style of the book spot on. The soundtrack was also really good. Honestly, other than the Adrian character in general, they really stayed very true to the book. It's just that this story is so reliant, not on action and effects but rather on the development of the characters and the world itself. And while they developed the world really nicely, I think they failed to develop Dr. Manhattan enough and his back story is really one of the key turns in the book. Overall I think they gave it a solid effort but it just doesn't have the same impact. I think people who read the book will at least find this movie intriguing and somewhat enjoyable but I think people who never read the book will find the movie mediocre at best.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
8
W3XCApr 7, 2013
Whats wrong with us you say? Whats wrong with you i ask! This movie is great! Sure, sex scenes where not neccesary but where not bloody offensive, neither was dr.manhattans penis. I image people that found this offensive has been raped orWhats wrong with us you say? Whats wrong with you i ask! This movie is great! Sure, sex scenes where not neccesary but where not bloody offensive, neither was dr.manhattans penis. I image people that found this offensive has been raped or something, so that any "sexual" related stuff is an horror to hear/watch. Terrible acting? nope, even though im not a top-notch movie critic i can tell you that its not horrible, its fairly good in my opinion. The story is interesting enough.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
4
ypomoniJul 5, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The plot was good, but the way it was developed left me disappointed. The characters were not well-defined. In fact, on many occasions they were either boring or indifferent to me. A lot of the film consisted of scenes that did not add to the central plot.
Miss Jupiter's encounter with the Comedian. She was almost raped by him, and then it's revealed she went and had sex with him. I am assuming this is put in to reflect the distorted mentality of today's society? Or was it just to make Silk Spec cry?
I still cant understand the attraction between Silk Spectre II and Dr. Manhattan, both of which appeared several times naked the first to hold the male audience's interest (I assume) and the second only made the audience giggle and laugh, detracting from the film.
Jackie Earle Haley's portrayal of a sociopathic anti-hero was definitely the highlight of the movie. Again, these "heroes" appeared more interested in the fight than actually helping mankind (JDM's Comedian a bright example of this). This notion is revoked in the end, when even a distant Dr Manhattan is "moved" by the devious actions of Ozymandias, all in the name of mankind. Well, that settles it then. Forget democracy, bring in the world's smartest men to lead us, otherwise we are just savages that ultimately will kill each other to extinction. But if we are indeed savages, mankind and heroes alike, what's the point in saving us in the first place? So there was a message trying to be sent, but it got lost (at least, on me) somewhere along the way...… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
7
Cinemassacre94Mar 20, 2016
In the mid-’80s, writer Alan Moore began to imagine a world in which the superheroes and costumed crime-fighters he’d grown up reading helped shape the Cold War decades that had repeatedly brought humanity to the brink of extinction. ItIn the mid-’80s, writer Alan Moore began to imagine a world in which the superheroes and costumed crime-fighters he’d grown up reading helped shape the Cold War decades that had repeatedly brought humanity to the brink of extinction. It wasn’t a better world. Behind their masks and glowing eyes, the heroes Moore conceived and created with artist Dave Gibbons were hindered, and occasionally crippled, by the same conflicting impulses, childhood traumas, and redirected neuroses that drive everyone else. Moore and Gibbons’ graphic novel Watchmen helped redefine the types of stories superheroes could be used to tell, not just by freighting them with darkness—too many subsequent creators showed how easy that could be—but by weaving their capes and gadgets into a dense, deep narrative: a detective story played out against the apocalypse in a world so thoroughly realized that Charles Dickens would be jealous.

The same elements that make Watchmen a great book made a Watchmen film a difficult prospect. (Moore, on principle, removed himself and his name from the project, which probably didn’t help.) It’s remarkable that any Watchmen movie made it to the screen, after the years of false starts and litigation. And the one we got—directed by Zack Snyder, most recently responsible for the ably made, philosophically dubious Frank Miller adaptation 300—deserves credit for staying true to the characters, plot (up to a point), and look of the original material while still generating his own kind of energy. Sometimes that energy feels misapplied and overcranked, as the roar of the action drowns out the film’s human voices, but Snyder’s Watchmen keeps moving so assuredly, it’s nearly impossible not to get swept along.

Keeping Moore’s alternate-universe ’80s New York setting, Watchmen opens with the murder of The Comedian (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), a long-serving crime-fighter with a late-career sideline in covert ops. (The film keeps Moore’s dark joke that electing Nixon to multiple terms is one of his world’s problems.) A masked vigilante named Rorschach (Jackie Earle Haley)—the only one who didn’t hang up his disguise when the government outlawed civilian crime-fighters in the mid-’70s—launches an investigation and uncovers a much larger conspiracy, one seemingly tied to mounting nuclear tensions between the U.S. and the U.S.S.R., as well as a bunch of Rorschach’s old colleagues. These include the Silk Spectre (Malin Akerman), who inherited the title from her mother (Carla Gugino); Nite Owl (Patrick Wilson) a bookish, wealthy master of machines; Ozymandias (Matthew Goode), who’s since turned his remarkable intellect to acquiring wealth and power; and Dr. Manhattan (Billy Crudup), a lab-accident-created glowing godlike being whose connection to humanity remains an open question.

There’s sometimes too much Dr. Manhattan in Snyder’s Watchmen, which often feels like a feat of engineering first, an artistic expression second. But his source material keeps him grounded, as does solid work from Crudup, Wilson, and especially Haley, whose performance evokes pity, fear, sympathy, and revulsion as he goes about his single-minded pursuit of justice without compromise. Others bring less. Given a central role, the lightweight Akerman serves as an Andie MacDowell-in-Four-Weddings-And-A-Funeral-level distraction, and Snyder isn’t always well-served by his tendency to start at 11 and try to turn up the volume, particularly in a bunch of over-the-top, bone-cracking action scenes. The time spent developing watchmen-fu would have been better invested in not blowing one of the book’s big Mars setpieces, or figuring out a better alternate ending than the one dropped in the original’s place.

And yet in the end, the film’s ambitious drive to create a dread-soaked alternate America and people it with flawed, recognizable heroes carries it along. Snyder uses grand gestures to create a sense of world-imperiling doom rooted in another era, but equally at home in this one. But he also remains willing to slow down to capture the gravity of a funeral, or dwell on a moment between old partners patching up a friendship as doomsday approaches. Moore’s touch emphasizes how messed-up and needy comic-book people would have to be to do what they do. Missteps and all, Snyder’s film gets that right, and this as well: When we look up in the sky, we don’t see a bird or a plane, but a mirror.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
10
MoviebuffreviewJan 28, 2011
Being a huge fan of the graphic novel, the only thing I hold against this movie is one performance. But the incredible accuracy to the novel, the excellent action, and the superb overall cast, Watchmen is unforgettable! See it!
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
8
jurrabiAug 6, 2020
Finally I got to see this movie. I watched just the day after binging the 12 Episodes of the original comic series. I mention this because I feel that your response to this movie depends very much on if you read the reference material before,Finally I got to see this movie. I watched just the day after binging the 12 Episodes of the original comic series. I mention this because I feel that your response to this movie depends very much on if you read the reference material before, and how long it was.
Because I didn't have time to idealize the Source Material and didn't make it a "Master Piece" in my mind I have to say that I see the movie to be very accurate to the source material. Yes, there are differences, and big ones, but I don't feel they make the end result worse than the original.
As they state in the RT's critics consensus, it might be that the story telling might be too thick to translate well to a movie. The movie has a lot of exposition and it probably won't be enough to people not familiar with the comic. But it happens that too in your first read of the comic. It comic is very thick, with all this characters and time jumping. Both mediums invite to a second reading/watching...
But as my experience goes, the movie is very well done, very stylish and entertaining. The even kept all the Pirate Comic storyline, that I was sure was the first thing to cut if you wanted to make the comic into a movie. I'm still not sure why it is there and what it add to the story as a whole (in both mediums), but it is well done and entertaining (only a little predictable).
I can't agree with the critics fiveish rating. is is more in the range of 8 for me.
If you know the comics, you already watched it, so you don't need my recommendation. If you didn't... I would advise to read them before watching it. It's only a 450 pages total, and it reads fast (I did in 2 summer afternoons).… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
7
Delta_AssaultSep 28, 2011
Thought it was... ok. Definitely not a huge crowd pleaser like The Dark Knight. No real thrills or shocking payoffs. But this is coming from a guy who's read the book about 15 or 20 times, so maybe a newcomer to the story would beg to differ.Thought it was... ok. Definitely not a huge crowd pleaser like The Dark Knight. No real thrills or shocking payoffs. But this is coming from a guy who's read the book about 15 or 20 times, so maybe a newcomer to the story would beg to differ. But uh... just flat in a lot of areas where the book didn't translate well to the screen. What worked on the page was brought to the screen by Zach Snyder as best as anyone could've mustered, but it wasn't really brought to life in a meaningful, emotional way. The violence was fine for the few fight scenes where it was actually present, but that just made them stand out as peculiar, when 90% of the movie is about... talking. Sometimes talking with bad aged makeup.

That rape scene hit me hard. Geez. I knew it was coming, I'd read it plenty of times on the page, but the way it was filmed was just... awful, and you could feel the audience dying inside. Though that was one thing I was surprised about, the audience. I dunno if it was because I went to an 11:50 pm showing or what, but nobody at my screening laughed aloud at Dr. Manhattan's blue dong like so many other reviews have been describing. They were just... pretty much silent throughout. The biggest reaction was when Rorschach spilled the oil on the convict and yelled "I'm not locked up in here with you. You're locked up in here with me." Of course they would, it was a great line.

Yea, that Dr. Manhattan... I gotta say, he ended up falling short of my expectations. Not Crudup's voice, that was fine. But the entire CGI entity just... did not look right to me. Maybe it IS the uncanny valley, but I just thought he looked unreal, inhuman, and somewhat of a failure as a visual effect. Perhaps part of that was because he had no pupils. I just checked and he doesn't have any in the graphic novel either, but... perhaps in this case it would've been better to diverge from the source material.

Like I said before... Snyder did as good a job as anyone could've in bringing this book to the movie screen. And yet... I did miss all the material that was cut out. The stuff with the two Bernies, the Psychiatrist's marital problems, Hollis getting pumpkin'd... there was a feeling of loss throughout watching the film. So I dunno how any person who hasn't read the book will react to the movie.

The ending change? Yea, fine. It works logically. About as well as the original ending I suppose. Though the visceral impact of seeing six full pages of dead corpses in New York was completely missing here. Sorry dude, but showing us a giant blue CGI explosion just doesn't carry the same impact. We needed to feel those millions of dead. I did like the Rorschach pattern in the snow though, that was something new and worked pretty well.

Oh yea, one last thing... good god Zach, what were you thinking with that Hallelujah sex scene? Dude, I like porn and I like superheroes, but that scene... I could not have rolled my eyes any further. It was cringeworthy. And no, it was not as bad as the sex scene in 300, because I was perfectly fine with that sex scene. It was short, perfunctory, and did not have an incredibly odd soundtrack. In this case, less would've been more. The scene in the book was only 2 panels, that was about right. Mostly it was the song though... that Hallelujah song will never be the same to me again.

But I did really like the intro credits with Bob Dylan.

Again, thought it was ok. But no, not the greatest comic book movie ever. It's a mostly faithful retelling of the book in 2 and a half hours that, in my opinion, will completely fly over the heads of the mainstream audience. Let's say 3 and a half stars, and I'm being generous.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
8
ReubenIsAGodMay 24, 2014
Easily the most underrated comic book films of all time, Watchmen is a visual entertaining film that really captures the dark, depressing tone of Alan Moore's sensational award winning graphic novel, full of amazing action, acting (the actorEasily the most underrated comic book films of all time, Watchmen is a visual entertaining film that really captures the dark, depressing tone of Alan Moore's sensational award winning graphic novel, full of amazing action, acting (the actor who plays Rocatch is amazing) and a will crafted plot that is alot more grounded compared to the unreal ending of the graphic novel.

8/10
Cons:
-Music at times is really off putting and just awkwardly placed, for example the sassy scene on the film.
-Pasting at times is too fast too slow, depending on what is happening
-Some of the amazing set peaces from the comic book that really embrace the overall impact humanization are left out from the film, which is very upsetting
-Really, Really cheesy at times… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
7
bfoore90Nov 22, 2019
A truly stunning visual comic book spectacle to behold, though the story lacks the meat to ascend into greatness
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
6
TheQuietGamerMar 6, 2011
This movie wasn't a great movie, the plot is pretty boring but picks up when the action finally shows up, all the characters but Rorschach are unlikable and lame, this is incredibly overhyped, and get boring at times, but you may be willingThis movie wasn't a great movie, the plot is pretty boring but picks up when the action finally shows up, all the characters but Rorschach are unlikable and lame, this is incredibly overhyped, and get boring at times, but you may be willing to give this a chance just don't expect greatness.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
3
AlSAug 21, 2009
I have seen some bad movies in my life, and this is now in top of them. This movie just lacks composition and many scenes are just unnecessary, including some of the characters. If this was not an age of large high-definition TVs, where even I have seen some bad movies in my life, and this is now in top of them. This movie just lacks composition and many scenes are just unnecessary, including some of the characters. If this was not an age of large high-definition TVs, where even the dumbest movie looks great on the screen, most people would realize the shortage of anything good about it.… Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful
4
j30Nov 27, 2011
It's crazy how this movie turned out average for me. The graphic novel is great, thought-provoking, and artistic. The movie adaptation, however, feels like a wax replica of the novel. With the actors/actresses looking uninspired and dull.
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
All this user's reviews
3
TheGeneralAug 26, 2009
This movie is like watching high quality, very expensive paint dry. How anyone could make it through the Director's cut is beyond me. I thought the original release was slow as molasses.
2 of 8 users found this helpful
1
MistyMAug 1, 2009
This was indeed the worst movie I have ever seen. It made no sense - and has so many loose ends that after two weeks Im still trying to piece this movie together.
1 of 4 users found this helpful
3
SpangleJul 2, 2016
Some people are allergic to peanuts. Some to pollen. Allergies are endemic in our society. Zack Snyder is allergic to making movies that are not complete s**t. Gratuitously violent and bombastic, Watchmen is an interesting little neo-noirSome people are allergic to peanuts. Some to pollen. Allergies are endemic in our society. Zack Snyder is allergic to making movies that are not complete s**t. Gratuitously violent and bombastic, Watchmen is an interesting little neo-noir film that gets bogged down by Snyder's lesser sensibilities. His desire to go completely over-the-top kills the film with pointless sexuality, excessive violence, and random diversions into the absurd that makes you wonder how much acid Snyder indulged in whilst making the film. I have never read the comic this is based on, but this one is really odd. Why do they keep going to Mars? Why? Why must he keep showing us this blue guy's penis? The existential questions of life, which we may never get. If the film were not as violent as it is (the arm cutting scene being the most visceral offender), it would still be bad. Watchmen is simply aggressively dumb. Snyder was criticized for Batman v Superman where critics claimed it looked as though it was put together by some kid smashing his toys together. Watchmen suffers from the same problem. Instead of purposeful and impactful events, Snyder has the sensibility of a 12 year old boy who includes scenes and effects because they look cool instead of actually having any cinematic value. If this is truly a faithful adaptation of the comics, Watchmen must be one hell of a painful read.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
All this user's reviews
0
NazguleroMar 11, 2011
There must be something like a manual for making movies. Plot, character development, pace, etc. Since apparently there isn't, abysmally awful flicks like this will continue to be made. What is the standard ? And what is the purpose ofThere must be something like a manual for making movies. Plot, character development, pace, etc. Since apparently there isn't, abysmally awful flicks like this will continue to be made. What is the standard ? And what is the purpose of submitting this to a paying audience ?… Expand
3 of 15 users found this helpful312
All this user's reviews
0
TiberiuCJan 16, 2010
One hour into the movie I was still asking myself: who the fuck are these people and why should I care about them? If you want to waste your time, go watch G.I. Joe instead, it's crap, but it's many times more entertaining than One hour into the movie I was still asking myself: who the fuck are these people and why should I care about them? If you want to waste your time, go watch G.I. Joe instead, it's crap, but it's many times more entertaining than this piece of sh*t.… Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful
1
OcelotDec 5, 2010
This movie was awful. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone, but you don't have to take my word for it.
2 of 11 users found this helpful29
All this user's reviews
0
CooterPatooterMar 22, 2012
Abysmally paced, ridiculous crybaby dialogue-filled, on-the-nose sexually exploitative, nearly action-free, cantankerous, dark (not in a noir-ish way but in a literal "it's difficult to tell what I'm looking at sometimes" sort of way),Abysmally paced, ridiculous crybaby dialogue-filled, on-the-nose sexually exploitative, nearly action-free, cantankerous, dark (not in a noir-ish way but in a literal "it's difficult to tell what I'm looking at sometimes" sort of way), leaden, flabby, incredibly overlong train wreck of a bullsh** movie. I've NEVER walked out of a theater before a film ended until Zack Snyder decided to make me look at Dr. Manhattan's penis for one agonizing moment after another for absolutely no reason. The four of us, exasperated, worn out... utterly soul-crushed by what we had already been subjected to leading up to this moment, finally gave up and left... LONG AFTER EVERY OTHER PERSON IN THE THEATER HAD ALREADY DONE SO! There's a line between just making a crappy movie and actually showing bald-faced contempt for your viewing audience. I'd say Snyder is definitely toeing that line, if not stepping over it here. All I know is that I'm still waiting for him to personally refund my $20. Jerk!… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
All this user's reviews
1
KnightfallLAMay 4, 2013
I did not purchase a twelve dollar movie ticket to see terrible plot holes, poor character development, cheesy dialog lines, and a blue wang. Sure, it has mediocre fight scenes but overall, it is unbearable.This does not reflect the comicsI did not purchase a twelve dollar movie ticket to see terrible plot holes, poor character development, cheesy dialog lines, and a blue wang. Sure, it has mediocre fight scenes but overall, it is unbearable.This does not reflect the comics at all, whatsoever.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
All this user's reviews
0
razburnknjMay 4, 2011
Too much long. Too much violence. I like the mature and realistic approach, but in some moment it loses its goals. It has a great ending endeed but you`ll have to wait...
1 of 7 users found this helpful16
All this user's reviews
2
oblique15Feb 2, 2013
This movie is trash, I don`t care what anybody says. I like one of the characters, but man I should punch myself in the face for finishing this movie. I see it has good ratings from allot of people, That just makes it clear, that I am not aThis movie is trash, I don`t care what anybody says. I like one of the characters, but man I should punch myself in the face for finishing this movie. I see it has good ratings from allot of people, That just makes it clear, that I am not a zombie who just follows what other people like. I usually like "Super Hero" movies, Not this one!… Expand
1 of 7 users found this helpful16
All this user's reviews
5
nutterjrNov 16, 2010
As camp as the George Clooney's Batman films (or even Roger Moore's Bond films) and not even close to the class of "The Dark Knight." It is a great production indeed, but it is never as good as its opening credit sequence.
1 of 8 users found this helpful17
All this user's reviews
2
913Feb 17, 2016
This film didnt grab me like the novel did, bad acting, great visual but no hart, felt empty and some times the dialogue felt flat, snyder is a great director but telling a story is not his thing
1 of 8 users found this helpful17
All this user's reviews
3
franklJul 9, 2009
This movie has the graphics to score big as that part is very well done. The dialogues are also pretty good, but do get long and boring after a while. I'll admit I did not know Watchmen before, but it probably will not get many poeple This movie has the graphics to score big as that part is very well done. The dialogues are also pretty good, but do get long and boring after a while. I'll admit I did not know Watchmen before, but it probably will not get many poeple interested in learning more. Again, it wreally starts to get boring after a while, you start to wonder where the movie is heading, or what did you actually learn after 2 hours watching the movie. Also, Dr. Manhattan is very well done, but most of his parts could have been summarized instead of long useless dialogues. Overall graphically this movie is splendid but it ends there. Way too long to get to the point, many dialogues that could have been shortened up, this can leave you wondering why u spent 3 hours watching it. Just my opinion.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
TedcookMar 6, 2009
Sieve with microscopic holes, looks fine, but all the meaning just pours right through.
0 of 3 users found this helpful
0
AndrewBurdickMar 8, 2009
They advertised this movie under the "who watches the watchmen" line. They also milked "from the creators of 300". Cool. I have been anticipating this movie for a year. Let me just say that out of the 2 hrs and 45 mins. I can think ofThey advertised this movie under the "who watches the watchmen" line. They also milked "from the creators of 300". Cool. I have been anticipating this movie for a year. Let me just say that out of the 2 hrs and 45 mins. I can think of maybe 15-20 mins of average/decent action.
If you are a fan of the book(s) then maybe its a good movie. I'm just glad though I'm not a fan cause this is really all just a bunch of trash. The killing of the Watchmen was a side dish to the "real" story. It was a back-story to keep the uneducated fans as myself who thought they were getting an action movie somewhat satisfied enough to not leave.

The visuals were average, nothing spectacular. I think its actually hillarious that they put it on the "Ultra" screen. Not necassary, there is no action or visualls worth it.
I've never honestly been so disapointed in a movie in my life. "I am Legend" is up there with the anticipation/hype leading to let-down. But this movie is not as advertised at all and is the biggest let down in at least the last 5 years of me being a movie-goer.
If your not a fan of the apparently garabage comic, than DO NOT EVEN RENT this crap!!! Not even close to an action movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
ZachC.Mar 14, 2009
From someone unfamiliar with this (or any other) graphic novel: I felt too little was explained, which made me feel lost, and what was explained was overexplained, which made me feel insulted. It was fun to watch at many points, but dull and From someone unfamiliar with this (or any other) graphic novel: I felt too little was explained, which made me feel lost, and what was explained was overexplained, which made me feel insulted. It was fun to watch at many points, but dull and slow in many others, and the story was not believable. I loved X-men and don't demand fidelity to the laws of science, but I like humans to act like humans, and didn't buy into several characters in this movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JohnDisapointedMar 17, 2009
An astounding fail this movie is an abomination to the book it was spawned. It is no suprise what so ever that Alan Moore wants to disassociate himself with the movie. It was a terrible movie at best on its own, had there been no book to An astounding fail this movie is an abomination to the book it was spawned. It is no suprise what so ever that Alan Moore wants to disassociate himself with the movie. It was a terrible movie at best on its own, had there been no book to compare it to countless people would have lost interest and it would have scored a 6-7. BUT since the movie was based upon a deep and powerfull book when it kills the theme, mocks the ideas and charactors and acts as an embodiment of the cancer that is hollywood I cannot help but judge hardly. They overpowerd the charactors, they added excessive sex appeal, they skipped themes, they CHANGED THE CHARACTORS turning some into archetypal supervillian douchbags rather then taking any time to explain them, I loved watchmen because there were no archetypes, now theres a supervillian, a badass, a man reliving his glory days and a slut on the screen.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
3
JoeSMar 19, 2009
Depressing and heavy handed, the story likes to pretend it has some deep philosophical statement about human kind, but mostly it just keeps slapping you in the face with mallet that has "Humans suck!" written on it in fingerpaint. An Depressing and heavy handed, the story likes to pretend it has some deep philosophical statement about human kind, but mostly it just keeps slapping you in the face with mallet that has "Humans suck!" written on it in fingerpaint. An undeniably beautiful film, its just depressing and dark. None of the characters are likeable or have any sort of redeeming quality, and the few actually fun parts are far too short. I haven't read the graphic novel, but I have no doubt this would be better shown in narrative form because this movie just drains the life out of itself. I give it a 3 for excellent visual appeal, but I could not recommend this to anyone.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
AustinTMar 27, 2009
So who are these people? How are they super powerful (besides the trite radiation accident BS with Manhattan)? Why are some of the characters the same age 50 years ago, while others grow up? Why would the villain bother going after the So who are these people? How are they super powerful (besides the trite radiation accident BS with Manhattan)? Why are some of the characters the same age 50 years ago, while others grow up? Why would the villain bother going after the watchmen instead of just doing what he planned to do in the first place? What is that thing on Mars? Why does that one guy have a purple tiger? There is not a single character I could give a crap about in this film, not one. Unless you read the comic book (I beg your pardon, "graphic novel") there is absolutely nothing in this movie that is worth the cost of admission. For the record, I loved the 300 and Sin City, so it's not that I don't "get it".… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
MPMar 30, 2009
Ok, so it *looks* cool, but where's the plot?? Maybe it's my fault that I never read the "graphic novel" ... but should that really be a prerequisite?
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
C.Lo.Mar 9, 2009
The Watchmen, though enjoyable, was, to be quite honest, too long and drawn out. As some have already stated, if you've read the graphic novel and really enjoyed it, then you will probably love this movie. It is almost a perfect The Watchmen, though enjoyable, was, to be quite honest, too long and drawn out. As some have already stated, if you've read the graphic novel and really enjoyed it, then you will probably love this movie. It is almost a perfect adaptation of the graphic novel, which I found to be pretty good, though I purposefully did not read to the end so the movie would surprise me. To be frank, the first 3/4 of the movie are quite awesome, and the last 1/4 of the movie is a complete disappointment. Not to mention, Dr. Manhattan (the blue guy) is completely naked the whole movie and is exposed, which blinded me through parts of the movie (if he was having sex, it woulda been intriguing, but no, he was just hanging out. That's really enjoyable). There were many slow scenes unless Rorschach was involved, and my girlfriend even fell asleep twice during the movie. I did enjoy the story (not including the ending), the opening is amazing, Rorschach is a beast, and then... Matthew Goode's acting was terrible. Just plain awful. There are many more things to be said, but the movie was, on the whole, a let down (and i saw it at IMAX), Enjoyable, somewhat worth seeing, but if you're expecting THE next movie, wait for G.I. Joe or Transformers 2 (or Wolverine or Terminator..)… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
MohamedAFeb 16, 2010
When I was watching Dark Knight in Imax a commercial came up for this movie. At first I thought 'another super hero movie'. After reading the comic and understanding each character well the movie just looked amazing to me. My When I was watching Dark Knight in Imax a commercial came up for this movie. At first I thought 'another super hero movie'. After reading the comic and understanding each character well the movie just looked amazing to me. My friends who read the comic liked it and the ones who didn't just thought it was crap. I agree that you have to read the comic to enjoy the movie, but I still watched it over 20 times.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
BillyCJul 27, 2009
If you're sober when you watch this you'll feel as though you're high... If you're high you'll have NO IDEA what's going on here... Terrible.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JohnRJul 29, 2009
Does anybody realize that this movie makes no sense? The ending is so whimsical you are driven to a Damocles sword. The elegance of the effects and the story are good until it just unravels!!! Even some earlier elements are a waste and Does anybody realize that this movie makes no sense? The ending is so whimsical you are driven to a Damocles sword. The elegance of the effects and the story are good until it just unravels!!! Even some earlier elements are a waste and contain no significance to the movie just a shame book = better!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
ryancarroll88Aug 27, 2010
There were a lot of things the movie did right, and plotwise, it stayed faithful to the original medium. However, there were enough missteps/inconsistencies and an unfulfilling style that it comes off as a purely enjoyable film, rather than aThere were a lot of things the movie did right, and plotwise, it stayed faithful to the original medium. However, there were enough missteps/inconsistencies and an unfulfilling style that it comes off as a purely enjoyable film, rather than a great, memorable one. Also, those watching the movie who haven't read the graphic novel will find little to cling on to, and might find the ending bemusing, but not anywhere near as impacting as what's presented in the book. The whole soundtrack also just needed an overhaul (If you're gonna feature "Hallelujah" in a movie, at least let it be Jeff Buckley's version!) Anyway, I need to get some sleep...… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
All this user's reviews
6
tonyGreenJan 16, 2020
Mostly enjoyable but bonkers. An unusual superhero story with an intricate plot (many flashbacks and diversions). The practical sets and effects are great, the CGI elements less than great. Very violent and gory which gets a bit tiresome.Mostly enjoyable but bonkers. An unusual superhero story with an intricate plot (many flashbacks and diversions). The practical sets and effects are great, the CGI elements less than great. Very violent and gory which gets a bit tiresome. Wonderfully ambiguous characters and a clever alternative history world. Slick and a bit dumb, but pretty enjoyable.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
6
txrangersfan72Sep 19, 2010
Watchmen was a socially-relevant, very gritty graphic novel from the late 80s written by one of the most original comic book writers of the time (or any time), Alan Moore.

Many of Alan's books have been made into movies. From Hell. V forWatchmen was a socially-relevant, very gritty graphic novel from the late 80s written by one of the most original comic book writers of the time (or any time), Alan Moore.

Many of Alan's books have been made into movies. From Hell. V for Vendetta. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. And he refuses to put his name on any of them because he thinks movies are pointless drivel.

So, for over 20 years, people have been trying to prove Alan wrong and find a way to put his "masterpiece," Watchmen, into film form. And no one had the balls, or technology, to accomplish it.

Until now.

First off, Zack Snyder has done the PERFECT translation of Watchmen into film. There is no way it could have ever been done better. Ever. By anyone.

However, that still doesn't mean the book translates to film well. It doesn't. At all.

Zack is very aware of how much it is possible to forever ruin Watchmen by making it into a cheesy movie, so he sticks to the source material almost verbatim. This makes for an interesting viewing experience, if you've read the book. It's like the book is being read to you.

However, it's like the book is being read to you.

It doesn't have a movie flow. It has a book flow. The film struggles to emotionally connect you with any character, except for Rorschach, who is the highlight of the film. PERFECT casting. And being so distant from the era of the cold war, even though we are seeing hints of it again, it's incredibly difficult to feel what the book made readers feel in the 80s when the cold war was so prevalent.

From the perspective of being faithful to the book, Zack should be commended and, in that respect, the film is perfect, even if they replaced the giant squid with nuclear explosions. It's a 5 star film.

However, from a film-watcher's perspective, it was too long (and, yes, I realize it had to be), it was too dated (and, yes, I realize it had to be), it was too boring and it did not flow well at all, though I think it picked up in the last half hour.

If you were a fan of the book, you HAVE to see it. If you have no idea about the book, do not waste your 3 hours and $15.

Side note: I was a huge comic book reader in the 1980s. What made Watchmen important was that, at the time, in the era of Ronald Reagan and the Cold War, what was weird was that comic book writers would not tackle the subject of nuclear war. It was almost like a silent rule that even though super heroes are supposed to save us from everything, we all know writing that a super hero could stop nuclear war is just dumb and unrealistic (even though the concept of super heroes themselves is dumb and unrealistic). It was very strange. Since no one could figure out a way to have a hero stop EVERY nuclear missile before hitting their targets, they just avoided the subject.

So when Alan Moore decided to tackle the subject head-on, he did it in a very unique way, and probably the only way it would have made sense. In Watchmen, the heroes manipulated mankind from destroying themselves. THAT is the way they saved them. They brought them together by making a common enemy from which they could unite. The heroes didn't have to "stop all the bombs." They simply had to manipulate the leaders from ever wanting to release the bombs.

It was genius.

Alan's disgust of the government, status quo, etc., and his story's descent into chaos are themes in many of Alan's stories. V for Vendetta is another great example (and much better done film). He is a master storyteller though, and superb character developer. Rorschach, in particular, comes across to me as Alan himself, which is why I think the character appeals to the reader so much. Uncompromising and blunt, like Alan himself.… Expand
0 of 7 users found this helpful07
All this user's reviews
7
cabritaSep 22, 2011
This movie is a mixed bag. Brilliantly directed in some parts. However boring and poorly acted in others. Overall worth seeing with fantastic visuals.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
davenbettridgeSep 8, 2011
Unlike most movies which seem to be held back by film studios, Watchmen and its director Zack Snyder would have benifited by studios saying NO and holding back the excessive nonsense that weighs down this movie. Too much of Watchmen'sUnlike most movies which seem to be held back by film studios, Watchmen and its director Zack Snyder would have benifited by studios saying NO and holding back the excessive nonsense that weighs down this movie. Too much of Watchmen's violence is unnecessary and far too excessive. Violence can be very effective but too much will screw up its impact and this movie suffers as a result. I did enjoy some of the films back story and the characters Rorschach and Doctor Manhattan were interesting, but for everything this movie did right it did something wrong. Some of the actors are good some are miscast, the screen play is messy at times and there is also a ridiculously clumsy laughable sex scene. It's a pitty as Watchmen does have some depth and could have been much better.â… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
6
TyranianApr 13, 2019
Visually fantastic, certainly Snyder at his best in that department, but the film feels bloated and in need of better editing.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
2
LynnHardyApr 6, 2012
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Watchmen is a different sort of film: a superhero with E.D: and a villain who wins with a "the ends justifies the means" message. Add to that the giant blue guy that runs around with his penis waging about for the last quarter of the film and this movie was made to push the envelope.… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
All this user's reviews
6
JamesCannonJan 3, 2013
I can see why fans of the novel enjoyed this..and I didnt entirely hate it, but it just didnt have that great stirring narrative feel that the graphic novel had. Of course not having a gaint squid kill millions in N.Y with its telekinesisI can see why fans of the novel enjoyed this..and I didnt entirely hate it, but it just didnt have that great stirring narrative feel that the graphic novel had. Of course not having a gaint squid kill millions in N.Y with its telekinesis powers was a little of downer but the film actually pulls off some of the scenes from the book rather nicely. The casting isnt all the terrible either, esp. Rorschach, Nite Owl, and even the Comedian. I didnt mind all the violence either, it was violent book, but for some reason it had a shiny cartoony feel to it, much like he did with 300...kind of glossy blood violence. It also just didnt appear as smart as the book did either, many of lines of dialogue that came right from the book, came across clunky and also Ozymandius is given villain status immediately..his character was the one I just felt they completely missed the ball park on...but hell he didnt pretty decent job with a challenging movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
0
ViolettApr 15, 2013
This movie makes me puke. Seriously. How in the world you can rate this positive This "heroes" makes no sense. Plot is awful. Main heroes HeHero and SheHero (didnt bother to remember names) are ugly as hell. And this blue guy without pantsThis movie makes me puke. Seriously. How in the world you can rate this positive This "heroes" makes no sense. Plot is awful. Main heroes HeHero and SheHero (didnt bother to remember names) are ugly as hell. And this blue guy without pants every time I saw his huge blue penis my eyes were bleeding. I simply cant understand how you can rate this more than zero.… Expand
0 of 7 users found this helpful07
All this user's reviews
4
TylerDsCreationJul 2, 2013
The graphic novel, Watchmen by Alan Moore is one of my favorite books and one of the best graphic novels ever written, if not the best. It is a groundbreaking piece of literature gold that deserves to be worshiped. Yes, I just recently readThe graphic novel, Watchmen by Alan Moore is one of my favorite books and one of the best graphic novels ever written, if not the best. It is a groundbreaking piece of literature gold that deserves to be worshiped. Yes, I just recently read the book and I missed this in theaters. But I know now how all those poor soles walking into the theater one night with their personal Watchmen copy in hand just awaiting this monumental adaptation to flash before their eyes feel. It does not feel very good.
I'm going to level with you, Watchmen wasn't awful. It was actually a pretty decently filmed movie. That meaning it looked great. Zack Snyder really has a talent for visual thrills because this looked beautiful. It had that Dark Knight look to it, but it had that polished and gleaming flare to it also. Snyder has style, and if only he can get a good script to go with it and he could be legendary.
Watchmen also had something else that blew me away. It has the best opening titles I have ever seen. They play out after the first scene and they aren't your normal opening credits just showing the people behind it. They do show that, but behind a series of slow-mo scenes where it's telling you all about the world your about to delve into. It shows the whole back story with the song The Times They Are A-Changin' playing. That is the one time in this movie that I will say the song actually fits the scene, but it did.
Now time to talk about all of the faults. I thought the music choices were bad. The choices for the soundtrack were very interesting choices. The songs they chose for each scene did not fit well with what was happening on screen and as a result, it took away from the impact. This was a problem, but it wasn't the biggest problem I had with this movie. The biggest problem I had was the excessive and graphic gore throughout. It's this CG blood that flies everywhere when people are shot or hurt and it constantly comes splattering everywhere like it's Gears of War. It's comedic at certain moments and it really detracts from the scene. It doesn't even look good and that really bothered me.
In the end, Watchmen has the same problem that another adaptation had, The Great Gatsby. It is maybe a bit too faithful to the source material. I watch this movie knowing exactly whats going to happen, exactly what I will see, and even exactly what people say.They literally have line by line quotes straight from the book said in this movie, and some of the story board was taken directly from the graphic novel comic strip boxes. There's no new spin on it and it ends up just feeling like you copied off another person's school project and didn't put any real effort to call it your own.
Watchmen may be ambitious, but it sure isn't the best adaptation that the classic book could have had. That's another of the biggest problem with this movie, it has so much potential, but is squandered by the soundtrack, excessive gore, and a vision a bit too close to the source material. I really feel pity for those poor people at that midnight showing in 2009.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
8
KivaJun 11, 2013
Action,fun,sex was included in that masterpiece. I really liked this movie.
it was one of the best action films these years. The plot was good, the direction extraordinary and the characters beyond fantasy. A good one
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
Swishalicious29Apr 1, 2016
Watchmen is a decent super-hero film, but is nowhere near as good at the graphic-novel. A lot of exposition is removed, but that isn't what bothers me. The problem is that a lot of bloated action scenes were added, where none were present inWatchmen is a decent super-hero film, but is nowhere near as good at the graphic-novel. A lot of exposition is removed, but that isn't what bothers me. The problem is that a lot of bloated action scenes were added, where none were present in the novel and this hurt the characters. By creating super-hero's, Snyder completely missed the point of the comic that these are regular humans with complicated lives.

The characters don't have the same distinct personalities and traits that are in the comic. Rorschach and Nite Owl are great, but Ackerman as Silk Spectre is pretty dreadful. She doesn't have the same conflicted personality that was in the comic and speaks in a monotone that becomes tedious throughout the movie. And while I respect the reverence for the comic, it definitely wouldn't have hurt to stray from it a little at times.

Some iconic scenes are done well, (prison scene in particular) and I loved the use of a rock soundtrack. Watchmen is decent enough, but its points get lost through the long run-time. Worth a watch for fans of the comic, but I can't recommend it much more than that.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
4
gracjanskiJan 2, 2021
The story is being told a bit weird, I asked myself, what is the core of the movie? Maybe the many slow motion scenes took my attention too often away from the main story. And in addition the movie was too long.

On the other side, most ofThe story is being told a bit weird, I asked myself, what is the core of the movie? Maybe the many slow motion scenes took my attention too often away from the main story. And in addition the movie was too long.

On the other side, most of the action scenes were brutal and great. Also the characters were not good or bad, just between it, so more interesting, but somehow I find some of the superheroes ridiculous.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
5
mariotoadrabbitJul 6, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With more darker, thrilling, and violet then the novel, watchmen brings the intense mystery violet film that frightens the audiences under 12 or 13 with graphic violences,bad sex love scenes and others. I don't need to hurt Zack synder's feelings for this movie but he does directed others films that are good such as legend of the guardians, sucker punch, 300, and man of steel. So I would generally recommend that this is a good movie but has bad stuff in it based on the graphic novel. So there's one thing I am confused about this movie. One thing am confused is that the plot generally mixed up from character to character. Each from past it the present of the story. So I would this is that the movie maybe frighten people with intense violence and darker past of the story. So that's that things I would say about this movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
6
DenisManuOct 12, 2014
Not that good of a graphic novel adaptation indeed.But a marvelous movie filled with great moments.With great performances and good looking visuals,this movie is entertaining and has a truly unexpected take on superheroes.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
3
KamamuraFeb 18, 2019
This movie is like an old clown who could never learn to juggle rings and balls, so he finally decides to juggle words. Love, drama, death, humanity, destiny, inner conflict, ambiguity... and it all falls on the ground again. Words are noThis movie is like an old clown who could never learn to juggle rings and balls, so he finally decides to juggle words. Love, drama, death, humanity, destiny, inner conflict, ambiguity... and it all falls on the ground again. Words are no easier than rings and balls, it seems.

Suddenly, a young girl about the age of eight runs in, cone of ice cream in hand, and shouts at the clown: "Hey, Mister, you suck!". The movie desperately needs this brat, but she does not make it in time. In plain words - it's a pretentious, badly narrated, too long an attempt at pseudo-mythology from a nation that was deprived of one. Heracles will always be better than Superman.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
6
aadityamudharApr 17, 2016
It's crazy how this movie turned out average for me. The graphic novel is great, thought-provoking, and artistic. The movie adaptation, however, feels like a wax replica of the novel. With the actors/actresses looking uninspired and dull.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
prev
Page:
More From This Movie

56 Critic Reviews

8.1 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 81 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
2 77 Project Hail Mary
3 75 Send Help
4 73 Hoppers
5 72 The Sheep Detectives
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL