Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: March 6, 2009
8.1
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Universal acclaim based on 2504 Ratings
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Positive:
2,057
Mixed:
186
Negative:
261
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3
DylanMar 7, 2009
PROS Excessive gore. Interesting fight scenes. CONS The novel is sapped of all depth and ideas. Snyder tightly adapts, strip-for-strip, Moore's masterpiece. Creates another frat-boy fantasy epic. Overwhelming pretension and stupidity. PROS Excessive gore. Interesting fight scenes. CONS The novel is sapped of all depth and ideas. Snyder tightly adapts, strip-for-strip, Moore's masterpiece. Creates another frat-boy fantasy epic. Overwhelming pretension and stupidity. Zach Snyder is not an artist. Expand
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9
ShtebenusMar 7, 2009
Zack has done an amazing job. He keeps to the comic successfully and shows each of the characters stories well. From a story that was never meant to be bought to screen the team behind it have done a magnificant job, new enough to seperate Zack has done an amazing job. He keeps to the comic successfully and shows each of the characters stories well. From a story that was never meant to be bought to screen the team behind it have done a magnificant job, new enough to seperate it from other comic book films including Wachowski Bros. V for Vandetta. Any problems seen on screen were perhaps made by Snyder's analytical view on keeping so close to the original content but these are few and far between leaving you with a great movie experience. Expand
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2
BradC.Mar 7, 2009
Self indulgent terrible film. Don't waste your time.
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3
BillO.Mar 7, 2009
The movie was gratuitous in almost every way imaginable: gratuitously violent, gratuitously sexual, gratuitously long and boring. Oh, plus the accompanying music left me wondering, "really Zack Snyder? That song?"
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
MatthewHenkelMar 7, 2009
While pulling amazing levels of detail from Gibbons work the film fails to do the same to Moore's narrative. The violence is overly gorey, the sex overly porn-like in contrast to the realistic nature of the comic. The ending is not onlyWhile pulling amazing levels of detail from Gibbons work the film fails to do the same to Moore's narrative. The violence is overly gorey, the sex overly porn-like in contrast to the realistic nature of the comic. The ending is not only different from the comic - it makes no sense.
*SPOILER ALERT*

... whuy would Russia and the world unite with the US when the US's weapon of mass destruction goes awry? The alien threat was an outside threat that forces the world to cooperate - Dr. Manhattan as a threat would make all of the other nations see the US as a threat.
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0
AndrewM.Mar 7, 2009
I'd like to start off by saying that sex and violence do not bother me in movies. This is not the reason for my review. That being said, Watchmen is the worst movie I have ever seen, beating even the terrible films shown on Mystery I'd like to start off by saying that sex and violence do not bother me in movies. This is not the reason for my review. That being said, Watchmen is the worst movie I have ever seen, beating even the terrible films shown on Mystery Science Theater 3000. The dialogue is terrible (characters talk past each other), character development is mediocre, no clear values are idealized in the movie, and the basic plot is sophomoric. The only thing worth praising in this film are the special effects, but even that is limited by obviously borrowed concepts. Come to think of it, the superhero looks like nothing but some blue combination of the Silver Surfer and the Fantastic Four. Final review: 0/10. Just rent some DVDs and have a comic book hero marathon. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DarebearMar 7, 2009
One of the best movies I've seen in a while. Amazing.
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10
DavidR.Mar 7, 2009
Kudos to Zack Snyder and the cast and crew of this amazing adaption of the graphic novel. I can't wait to see the extended edition.
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10
CamP.Mar 7, 2009
While some things from the graphic novel are left on the cutting room floor, the heart and soul of it are still there! The movie is an extremely faithful adaptation, going so far as to making each scene and line in the movie a direct While some things from the graphic novel are left on the cutting room floor, the heart and soul of it are still there! The movie is an extremely faithful adaptation, going so far as to making each scene and line in the movie a direct recitation of the graphic novel. Mind-blowingly good graphics and soundtrack as well. Expand
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6
BorisA.Mar 8, 2009
In the first hour it's ok,but then comes out the all splatter-action soul...clearly it's not like the graphic novel...the dialogues are not as fascinating as the graphic novel and the characters are not good like in the graphic In the first hour it's ok,but then comes out the all splatter-action soul...clearly it's not like the graphic novel...the dialogues are not as fascinating as the graphic novel and the characters are not good like in the graphic novel... The story in the movie it's also modified..and..not in a good way...it's an enjoyable movie..but it's a 6..considering what WATCHMEN really is... Expand
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9
KeithM.Mar 8, 2009
A flawed masterpiece.
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3
StevemMar 8, 2009
Watchman overlooked many of the subtle details that made the graphic novel great. It also only offered a 2-second glimpse of some of the strong supporting yet indirect characters of the novel. It felt like a tease by saying "We've read Watchman overlooked many of the subtle details that made the graphic novel great. It also only offered a 2-second glimpse of some of the strong supporting yet indirect characters of the novel. It felt like a tease by saying "We've read the comic and we know that were cutting out some things." If you were viewing The Wachmen for the first time with no prior knowledge you would think some parts were good but it was overall boring. The movie brought some scenes to life and it ruined others. Expand
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2
KevinBMar 8, 2009
Never in my 30 or so years of movie-watching have I seen a movie with so much gore and nudity be SO BORING! Maybe if the three "prettiest" Watchpeople weren't such mediocre and uncharismatic actors. Maybe if Jeffrey Dean Morgan, one ofNever in my 30 or so years of movie-watching have I seen a movie with so much gore and nudity be SO BORING! Maybe if the three "prettiest" Watchpeople weren't such mediocre and uncharismatic actors. Maybe if Jeffrey Dean Morgan, one of the rare charismatice (and non-waxy) actors had played one of those roles instead of the jerkiest Watchdork. Maybe if Dr Manhattan didn't talk (and talk and talk) in such a listless monotone. Maybe if the entire movie had revolved around Rorschach, played excellently by Jackie Earl Haley. Maybe if the movie didn't consist of more than two hours of backstory followed by 40 minutes of sudden plot. So many maybes that turned into a movie only fanboys could love. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
WHOKNEWMar 8, 2009
Excellent adaptation, but I'm taking a few points off for some weak performances. Overall, tho, worth the price of admission, to say the least.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
NathanH.Mar 8, 2009
Watchmen is one of the best adaptations of a graphic novel I've seen. It stays closer to the source material than most. The only thing that I didn't like about it was how some scenes felt rushed for time, but that is a small Watchmen is one of the best adaptations of a graphic novel I've seen. It stays closer to the source material than most. The only thing that I didn't like about it was how some scenes felt rushed for time, but that is a small complaint. Overall if you like the graphic novel you will probably like the movie. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AlexP.Mar 8, 2009
Faithful, Visually compelling. The silk spectre/nite owl romance is boring, but the rest of the movie is spot on. Rorscach is particular is brilliant.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
DarenM.Mar 8, 2009
Great action movie, great characters, good sci-fi and any fan of "comic book" movies would like this. However, viewer beware. I would have rated this a 9 if not for the over use of frontal male nudity and excessive (or gratuitous as people Great action movie, great characters, good sci-fi and any fan of "comic book" movies would like this. However, viewer beware. I would have rated this a 9 if not for the over use of frontal male nudity and excessive (or gratuitous as people say) sexual scenes. This is where I think a movie pushes beyond my perceived definition of the R rating and I wasn Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DonQuixoteMar 8, 2009
An outstanding postmodern exploration of the superhero concept.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ToddR.Mar 8, 2009
As a fan of the book I was impressed by the attention to detail and how much of the book made it into the film. I don't know mainstream audiences will like it; it's dense, dark, long and filled with moral ambiguity. In some ways As a fan of the book I was impressed by the attention to detail and how much of the book made it into the film. I don't know mainstream audiences will like it; it's dense, dark, long and filled with moral ambiguity. In some ways it's a 100 million dollar superhero art house film. I think people will love it or hate it. I thought it was great. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MarkF.Mar 8, 2009
Personally I enjoyed it very much. I've always been a fan of the graphic novel and consequently I understood the back-stories, histories and ideals behind the movie. However, I can also see how people who haven't read the novel Personally I enjoyed it very much. I've always been a fan of the graphic novel and consequently I understood the back-stories, histories and ideals behind the movie. However, I can also see how people who haven't read the novel could quite easily find themselves lost within the various layers and story arcs. I did find the character development not as involving as the comics, but that was only to be expected within the time constraints of a feature film. It's one of those movies that will make more sense the second or third time of watching, when you can pick up on the little intricacies that are woven into the plot. Very enjoyable if you've read the graphic novel or can stay focused for the full 160 odd minutes. A mention has to go to the brilliant performance by Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach too. Expand
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8
SteveK.Mar 8, 2009
It's good. It's not the best superhero move ever made, and its not the best action movie ever, it's not the greatest character-driven movie ever, and it doesn't have the best plot. But that doesn't mean it It's good. It's not the best superhero move ever made, and its not the best action movie ever, it's not the greatest character-driven movie ever, and it doesn't have the best plot. But that doesn't mean it doesn't work for what it is, and that doesn't mean it's not done well. The critics missed the point - it's a comic book on screen, and one that's pretty fun to watch. Don't worry about it, and you'll probably like it. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DavidK.Mar 8, 2009
Faithful to the comic, movie was interesting and moved smoothly between the different characters.
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6
DPiddyMar 8, 2009
Seemed too long and yet still crammed with a lot of uninteresting moments... Like everyone is just going through the motions and not taking time to focus at key moments that would motivate the audience to care about any of the characters. Seemed too long and yet still crammed with a lot of uninteresting moments... Like everyone is just going through the motions and not taking time to focus at key moments that would motivate the audience to care about any of the characters. The visuals are the saving grace, obviously. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BedbathMar 8, 2009
never read the comic, but felt like it was too long, and Dr. Manhattan was boring... he was more of a robot than anything... i understand he's thinking on 8 planes of existence, but would have preferred something a bit more ominous to never read the comic, but felt like it was too long, and Dr. Manhattan was boring... he was more of a robot than anything... i understand he's thinking on 8 planes of existence, but would have preferred something a bit more ominous to make the character interesting. Expand
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0
RoseP.Mar 8, 2009
Gleeful brutality cloaked in incredibly phony philosophizing. Repulsive. And incomprehensible to anyone not familiar with the source material. I hated this movie with the heat of a thousand suns.
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2
CestL.Mar 8, 2009
Simply a bad movie for many reasons. It's not easy to make a super hero movie boring but they managed it here. Stupid, vapid, meaningless sex scenes, stilted preachy dialogue, just cliches galore. I loved 300 but about the only positive Simply a bad movie for many reasons. It's not easy to make a super hero movie boring but they managed it here. Stupid, vapid, meaningless sex scenes, stilted preachy dialogue, just cliches galore. I loved 300 but about the only positive aspect here is the soundtrack. What a waste! Expand
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9
AdamG.Mar 8, 2009
To Daren M: I understand that it doesn't come across in the movie (lots of things don't), but because you get to see so many more things tangential to the plot in the book, it becomes clear why Dr. Manhattan doesn't wear the To Daren M: I understand that it doesn't come across in the movie (lots of things don't), but because you get to see so many more things tangential to the plot in the book, it becomes clear why Dr. Manhattan doesn't wear the thong all the time. Through flashbacks, we get to see how Dr. Manhattan loses his humanity to become what his is at the time of the action. as this progression continues, he loses more and more clothes. His nudity is a symbol for his lost humanity; he no longer sees the point of covering oneself. He still does it when appearing in public, but when the masses won't be viewing him he sees it as unnecessary. It wasn't just Zack Snyder wanting to toss in a guy's junk all over a film. Expand
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9
KaneB.Mar 8, 2009
Going in, I was hopeful but skeptical as to whether the film would actually work or be something of a mess. I left in awe. Though by no means perfect (occasionally plodding pacing and near religious adherence to the graphic novel hinder it Going in, I was hopeful but skeptical as to whether the film would actually work or be something of a mess. I left in awe. Though by no means perfect (occasionally plodding pacing and near religious adherence to the graphic novel hinder it in places) I found it to be a thoroughly entertaining, thought provoking and strangely haunting experience that not only succeed in bringing the graphic novel to life, but on its own terms as pure cinema. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
ROFLMar 8, 2009
Why couldn't the super-intelligent blue guy put on a pair of d@mn pants?!?! LOL He has a big schlong but why do we need to see it?
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10
ElCidMar 8, 2009
Just a masterful, masterful work. Visually stunning, perfectly directed, and brutal and violent when it needs to be.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BigM.Mar 8, 2009
Wow, I was totally blown away by this movie. What a great fantasy. The reason I go to the movies is to escape reality and this was the best escape I've had in a long time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
O.O>Mar 8, 2009
One of the most incredible superhero movies i've ever seen. Don't believe the critics!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
HN.Mar 8, 2009
Just (re)read the book.. it won't take too much longer and is infinitely more enjoyable.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AlanD.Mar 8, 2009
This movie was incredibly good but only in the sense that it was a great homage to the source material. It felt as if Snyder simply wanted to make something that would be an accompaniment to the comics, rather than a stand alone movie. If This movie was incredibly good but only in the sense that it was a great homage to the source material. It felt as if Snyder simply wanted to make something that would be an accompaniment to the comics, rather than a stand alone movie. If you've read the comics you will love it if not you could easily hate it. I do think they did the best job they could have possibly done, the story is simply too dense for the silver screen. The problem is that with so much of the characters back stories trimmed down and skimmed over the general audience won't connect with them and may view their humanness as hackneyed. Also the way this is marketed and the time that it came out will alienate too much of its audience. Like the reviewers I've read saying dr. Manhattan was a silver surfer ripoff. Or all the x-men and spider man fans who think they can veg-out and watch some fighting with a few jokes. Oh and all of you how say the ending change wasn't good this is not a bible and it is not blasphemy it is improvement. It ties the story together so much better it isn't a campy and it simply makes more sense. My overall take is that I will probably tell people not to watch it for fear they will spoil their appetite for "the watchmen". I think if the read it first their hunger for the film will be voracious. I gave it a 9 because i felt it was the best transition possible except for the super long directors cut with the black freighter edited back in, but that would definitely not be for mainstream American audiences. Expand
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8
PCurtMar 8, 2009
Watchmen, while some of its more fan-loved moments were tweaked, as well as some of the more major aspects (the ending), was a great film. Some characters and conversations were simplified or shortened, but did not take away from the Watchmen, while some of its more fan-loved moments were tweaked, as well as some of the more major aspects (the ending), was a great film. Some characters and conversations were simplified or shortened, but did not take away from the experience. Rorschach, Manhattan, and The Comedian were great performances, and the plot and point of Watchmen was still portrayed accurately to the graphic novel. Inaccuracies aside, Watchmen still is a must-see if you can sit still long enough to watch it. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
KyleF.Mar 8, 2009
This movie was incredible, the incredibly dark, deep tale was told perfectly.
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10
AndyD.Mar 8, 2009
Not familiar with the book......yet. I was blown away by the scope and ambition of this. Who cares if it 'fails' by any detailed standards? It's a classic. See it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MarcHMar 8, 2009
Brilliant film...people who give this movie below an 8 wouldn't appreciate a good film is it slapped them in the face. This is the best comic book movie adaptation ever made!
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8
MattLimesMar 8, 2009
Is there boring parts? Yes.
Is it too long and complicated for those of us who didn't read the book? Yes.
Is there AMAZING visual scenes that will stick with any movie goer for years after seeing the movie? Definitely yes. Ultimately,
Is there boring parts? Yes.
Is it too long and complicated for those of us who didn't read the book? Yes.
Is there AMAZING visual scenes that will stick with any movie goer for years after seeing the movie? Definitely yes.
Ultimately, you have to sit through a lengthy movie for some key scenes, but it's well worth it. Someone needs to tell the producers of comic book movies that the default comic book flick should be 1:45 minutes, not 3 hours. You aren't making Schindler's list here, your filming a schoolboys daydream. It ISN'T important, and doesn't deserve 3 hours.
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8
SusanMar 8, 2009
I really enjoyed this movie. I am a fan of the novel and did appreciate Snyder's adaptation. Yes it was gory, but like the novel ,the sex and violence was never gratuitous. The movie did show the depth of the novel, even to my friend I really enjoyed this movie. I am a fan of the novel and did appreciate Snyder's adaptation. Yes it was gory, but like the novel ,the sex and violence was never gratuitous. The movie did show the depth of the novel, even to my friend who had never read the book. No, this is definitely not the average superhero blockbuster, smash-em-up, but rather a thinking person's movie about the more human, flawed aspects of super heroes and their consequences. Cinematography was beautiful if sometimes frame by frame from the novel Expand
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9
BethMar 9, 2009
I really enjoyed this movie. The visuals were fantastic, and I loved the musical choices. I haven't read the graphic novel (but I'll make sure to get to it now) but the movie definitely stands on it's own.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
LeeW.Mar 9, 2009
Forget the fact that this movie was long and tedious. Forget the fact that the make up was poor and the action was sadistic and cruel. Clockwork Orange was cruel but made an important statement about society. People will forgive flaws in a Forget the fact that this movie was long and tedious. Forget the fact that the make up was poor and the action was sadistic and cruel. Clockwork Orange was cruel but made an important statement about society. People will forgive flaws in a movie if the story touches them. Alan Moore wrote the graphic novel as a satire of fascism, but conversely this movie is a testament to it. Perhaps this is why Moore sued to not have the movie made. The basic point of this movie is that the ends justify the means, and genocide is OK because people of superior intellect know better than we do, and should make decisions such as genocide to protect us from ourselves. What garbage!!! People who love power for the sake of power will love this film. People who fantasize about rape and torture will love this film. Adolf Hitler would have been the biggest fan. The movie proves all of his points about people and society and what should be done. As a film maker, I rarely wish to see a movie fail. But this movie is against everything I believe it, and it's very sad what it teaches young people. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
TonyMar 9, 2009
Let me start off by saying I love comic book based movies as well as the movie 300, but I have to warn people that this movie was terrible. The cast had no chemistry together and there was way to much information to process. The only Let me start off by saying I love comic book based movies as well as the movie 300, but I have to warn people that this movie was terrible. The cast had no chemistry together and there was way to much information to process. The only character that I thought did a great job was the one with the ink on his mask. In the end I regret having wached it. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
ArtG.Mar 9, 2009
I rate this as 0 because zero is not a number its a place holder. I just finished watching it and I can't describe in any meaningful way what I just saw or what I thought about it. The violence makes Braveheart seem tame. I've seen I rate this as 0 because zero is not a number its a place holder. I just finished watching it and I can't describe in any meaningful way what I just saw or what I thought about it. The violence makes Braveheart seem tame. I've seen enough demi god blue penis to last a lifetime. I was compeled to finish it even though I had a strong inclination to walk out early on. I walked into the theater without any preconceived notions other than the ad looked cool. I didn't know it was based on a comic book much less read it. I may read it now to try and get a grasp on what I just witnessed. Those inclined to nightmares should avoid it. I would have rated it "x" for the violence and full on intercourse. I had better not catch anyone taking their young kids to this "comic book" movie!!! Expand
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9
DragobertH.Mar 9, 2009
Many classic movies are not received well on release, but rise in critics' appreciation with the test of time - Watchman may be one of these films. I took a group of teenagers to the screening and figured I'd be bored to sleep. Many classic movies are not received well on release, but rise in critics' appreciation with the test of time - Watchman may be one of these films. I took a group of teenagers to the screening and figured I'd be bored to sleep. Instead I found a morally, intellectually, and (surprisingly) emotionally challenging SciFi flick, with great plot, action, humor, character development and cinematography. Even the sex and ultraviolence were (mostly) not overdone and appropriate within the context of the story and graphic novel form. It was with relief when I saw highly respected critics such as Roger Ebert also got it - and my kids rated it a 10! Caution: not recommended for teens unable to handle R rated material. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoeE.Mar 9, 2009
Plan on seeing it multiple times.
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10
FredF.Mar 9, 2009
I saw the movie before reading the book, and it's amazing. I'm currently halfway through the book and I'm amazed by how closely the filmmakers actually stuck with it... Great movie.
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10
GunnerL.Mar 9, 2009
this was an incredible movie. beatifully designed and fully realized. beats the heck out of the dozens of other super hero movies that are "decent fliks" this movie portrays the brutal reality of the realm of super heroes. a bit lengthy but this was an incredible movie. beatifully designed and fully realized. beats the heck out of the dozens of other super hero movies that are "decent fliks" this movie portrays the brutal reality of the realm of super heroes. a bit lengthy but a MUST SEE! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
jaykMar 9, 2009
Very long but very very interesting. there is some great philosophy behind this movie
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3
MihaiMar 9, 2009
I did not read the graphic novel, I may check it out in the future out of sheer curiosity. I love sci fi, and used to be well versed in a few comics. My review is just as biased as those that grew up on this graphic novel. This was such a I did not read the graphic novel, I may check it out in the future out of sheer curiosity. I love sci fi, and used to be well versed in a few comics. My review is just as biased as those that grew up on this graphic novel. This was such a visually complex film, but for me personally, nothing more than that. It was also unnecessarily violent. The tongue-in-cheek nature and what felt like 3+ hours of discourse on human society wore thin very quickly. Good adaptations usually are updated to match the times, this one was simply silly. If you're going to use modern martial arts, you might as well change up the characters so they're less corny. I haven't felt this frustrated (or _wanted_ to fall sleep) during a movie since Odd Couple II. Expand
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9
BenMar 9, 2009
If you can handle comic-based films, this one will not disappoint. Allow yourself to get lost.
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3
DanaM.Mar 9, 2009
I really tried to like this movie. I really did. But there was little redeeming value in this movie. Very brutal with gratuitious sex. And this movie was WAY too long. Torturous. Save your money.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MicheleA.Mar 9, 2009
Amazing movie...different from the graphic novel but delicious.
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8
ZachD.Mar 9, 2009
They changed a few things from the novel, but it didn't really change the experience that much. Yes, they changed the ending, and yes, they left things out. But, had they not done those things, the movie would have been 5 hours long. They changed a few things from the novel, but it didn't really change the experience that much. Yes, they changed the ending, and yes, they left things out. But, had they not done those things, the movie would have been 5 hours long. Also, how can you complain about a movie being 163 minutes when movies like Titanic and the Godfather are longer and supposedly two of the best movies ever made? When I plop down $9 for a movie ticket, I WANT it to be long, especially when it's material that I'm 90% sure I'll enjoy. I'm not one for scenes of gore and brutality, and I could have done without that. But overall, this was a great movie that did the novel justice. I'm REALLY looking forward to when the Blu-ray comes out with the extended version that supposedly will include some of the omitted material from the novel! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
ChrisG.Mar 9, 2009
I have never read the book, although I had heard a little bit about it, that said here is my review. Good plot, interesting characters, but a bit to dark for my tastes. The story is very deep, and it is not your typical superhero move. If I have never read the book, although I had heard a little bit about it, that said here is my review. Good plot, interesting characters, but a bit to dark for my tastes. The story is very deep, and it is not your typical superhero move. If you go into it thinking its going to be another iron man or spiderman, you will be shocked. You really have to pay attention to follow the plot, this is not for light viewing. Think of this as a cross between batman begins and sin city. Superheros in a dark, brutal world filled with uncertainty. Downside, the movie moves slowly at times, the movie may be a bit to much like the book to really do well with audiences. If you are uncertain about if you want to see this, I suggest you wait for it to be a rental, then watch it a couple of times, if you can. You will get much more out of it. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DaneDayMar 9, 2009
Rorschach made this movie, all in all it was an epic success.
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8
LizzieS.Mar 9, 2009
Big fan of the book, and this far surpassed my expectations.
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2
JohnQ.Mar 9, 2009
There needs to be a rating higher than R for this stuff. Hero plot and character development are buried (ironically) underneath an amoral, hyperviolent and sexualized presentation. The violation and destruction of a little girl should be There needs to be a rating higher than R for this stuff. Hero plot and character development are buried (ironically) underneath an amoral, hyperviolent and sexualized presentation. The violation and destruction of a little girl should be off limits, shunned, in any media. Period. I have a brain, as well as reason and a conscience. This ain't art, its trash. If you like this movie you need your head examined. Expand
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7
JohnBMar 9, 2009
The movie is not a epic masterpiece but it's a worth while gritty comic/action film. It's not for the family, hence it's "R" rating. Don't be fooled by the superhero comic book setting. However, the biggest downside to The movie is not a epic masterpiece but it's a worth while gritty comic/action film. It's not for the family, hence it's "R" rating. Don't be fooled by the superhero comic book setting. However, the biggest downside to the film is that it just doesn't draw you in enough, particularly for the characters. It doesn't explain who the super heros are, or why you should care for them. With the exception of Rorschach, who received a good amount of air time and back story. It's not great, but it's certainly not at terrible as some of these reviews are coming in at. "Gratuitous sex"? There's like one 2 min sex scene in a 3 hour film. Hardly "gratuitous". Though, I've seen enough blue penis' to last me a lifetime. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
EthanB,Mar 9, 2009
Don't believe the negative reviews. Dense and very visual film. A hard 'R' rating but necessary. Faithful to the comic. Necessary omissions and over-simplifications for movie format. Still miss the giant squid though.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
FeliciaN.Mar 9, 2009
I loved it. I'm new to the comics, having only read the first two, and I still loved it. Even the ending change (I read the Wikipedia entry for it) is acceptable. Butler does an amazing job of adapting comics because he is faithful to I loved it. I'm new to the comics, having only read the first two, and I still loved it. Even the ending change (I read the Wikipedia entry for it) is acceptable. Butler does an amazing job of adapting comics because he is faithful to the original works, adding his artistry in the amazing camera work, editing and sleekness of his movies. Personally, I would like him to be the designated comic book adapter in Hollywood, because he's so good at it. Fat chance, but a girl can dream. I did think the sex scene was a bit much, because I think the same ideas could have been portrayed without showing it so graphically. Yes it is a natural human behavior, but it's a private one! I like it that way. You can suggest it by showing faces, and limbs just as well. IMHO. Dr. Manhattan. Folks, get a grip. It's a penis, OMG run for the hills. Why is a penis so abhorrent to us when the female form is used so often and so blatantly to no such outcry? But I digress. His nudity was very in keeping with what he has become. Again, right on the money with the comic. The gore was a bit much, could have been artfully implied without actual entrails hanging from the ceiling, but again, faithful to the comic. As for the plot line of the film, I love it too. It's not the normal comic hero movie. It's an idea of what real people in hero costumes would be like. They would not be mythical, nearly perfect people who are in near perfect harmony with each other on issues of good and evil. I think Moore has a very real understanding of human nature, and it's not pretty. But it is real. I love Rorschach. Holy crap, was he perfect. I did not for one second question that he WAS Rorschach. Just brilliant. You don't like it fine. But don't bash it just because it wasn't the action flick you thought it was. Try looking into the movies you want to see, to see what they are really about, don't just take the previews word for it. The preview is not the movie, and one should not be judged on the merits of the other. Expand
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0
MarkO.Mar 9, 2009
Unrelentingly unpleasant... a masterpiece of misspent energy and appallingly bad artistic decisions... When the movie ended I felt desperately sad for all the people who worked on this film. What is with Zack Snyder's fetish for the Unrelentingly unpleasant... a masterpiece of misspent energy and appallingly bad artistic decisions... When the movie ended I felt desperately sad for all the people who worked on this film. What is with Zack Snyder's fetish for the sound of breaking bones? As bored and repelled as I was by the entire mess, I was nonetheless struck by what has to be the greatest moment of cinematic stupidity in history: Ozymandias, the "smartest man in the world," has secured his entire computer network with a password that is [spoiler omitted]. Expand
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0
MARIANNER.Mar 9, 2009
This movie was nothing but a super hero porn flick. It had no plot, and I was quite embarrassed to take my children to see this movie. If this is what the comic books are about, I am glad my kids aren't into them.
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9
L.O.A.Mar 9, 2009
Reveling in the fetishism and fascism of superhero comics, this is a horrific, brutal, sleazy film about what it means to live in a horrific, brutal, sleazy world. And how we can try to make it better in the face of insurmountable odds. Go Reveling in the fetishism and fascism of superhero comics, this is a horrific, brutal, sleazy film about what it means to live in a horrific, brutal, sleazy world. And how we can try to make it better in the face of insurmountable odds. Go off the deep end and kill in the name of the greater good? Or just try and remember what it means to be a human being in love? Ten years from now it will no doubt be universally praised. Expand
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10
TomBagbyMar 9, 2009
I actually have seen this movie three times already. The people who give it 0 obviously have no brain or semblance of thought processes. This movie is great and the soundtrack is amazing. Go see it, it is amazing
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0
EricE.Mar 9, 2009
This movie, visually was beautiful as is 300. But the plot, story line and everything else was ooo sooo boring...the opening fight scene may indeed be the best scene. Dr. Manhattan spoke in the most non comprehensive language that most peopleThis movie, visually was beautiful as is 300. But the plot, story line and everything else was ooo sooo boring...the opening fight scene may indeed be the best scene. Dr. Manhattan spoke in the most non comprehensive language that most people will ask..WTF??? is he saying...did not care about the nudity at all...the costume heros were retards, except Rorshack...the antagonist of the movie, fought one time and that was against his super hero friends...30-45 mins into this movie i was dozing off...very very boring. Expand
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10
JCMar 9, 2009
i dont understand why people didnt like this movie, my only complaint was that it was so long
it stuck to the source material for the most part, the action was great, and zack snyder actually showed the characters history and problems which
i dont understand why people didnt like this movie, my only complaint was that it was so long
it stuck to the source material for the most part, the action was great, and zack snyder actually showed the characters history and problems which is something i expected him to ditch in favor of more action scenes.
people just dont want to like this movie, ask one person and theyll say its not enough like the graphic novel, ask someone else and theyll say it was too much of a direct interpretation. some people say its too long, others say it wasnt long enough. People are just really bitchy and half no attention span, thats why a lot of people didnt like this movie, i mean the acting was freakin great, people bitched that some of the characters were emotionless, BECAUSE THATS HOW THEY WERE IN THE NOVEL YOU IDIOTS. Snyder just tried too hard to please everyone, but honestly, this has to be the best interpretation of a graphic novel or comic book ever made, and before any of you even think the words The Dark Knight, yeah it was great but it really had almost nothing to do with the comics except for the character names. So if you are thinking of going to see watchmen, just be prepared for a long movie and if theres not a fight scene every 5 minutes, dont bitch about it just because you have A-D-fuckin-D
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9
YitzhakMar 9, 2009
Too violent, and the musical choices are atrocious - but I enjoyed it greatly.
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10
JacobP.Mar 9, 2009
People who give this movie a low rating are either fans of the comic who are angry that they didn't make the film like it was in their own head. This is the best movie I've seen in a long, long time. It blows 'Dark People who give this movie a low rating are either fans of the comic who are angry that they didn't make the film like it was in their own head. This is the best movie I've seen in a long, long time. It blows 'Dark Knight' out of the water. Expand
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10
RobbieMApr 26, 2009
I really liked this movie, i just don't get why so much people are bashing this movie to death.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MikeApr 3, 2009
Tim:.. You honestly have no idea wtf your talking about. You ask the people who gave the movie a 8 & higher rating what we really liked about it. The movie was just flat out good. Good Characters, good storyline, stayed faithful to the comic Tim:.. You honestly have no idea wtf your talking about. You ask the people who gave the movie a 8 & higher rating what we really liked about it. The movie was just flat out good. Good Characters, good storyline, stayed faithful to the comic book, and a enjoyable movie. So maybe you should pull your head outve your ass and go see the movie again. Or maybe go see the Haunting in Connecticut that might suite your needs. Btw that movie was terrible. Expand
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5
DanLApr 4, 2009
Zach should have stuck with Frank Miller. There's no chance of butchering any of the nuances of Frank's work because there are none. Alan Moore is a completely different beast. The Watchmen graphic novel is famous because of Zach should have stuck with Frank Miller. There's no chance of butchering any of the nuances of Frank's work because there are none. Alan Moore is a completely different beast. The Watchmen graphic novel is famous because of it's depth and rightly so, but there is just too much to translate to the big screen in one movie. The Watchmen is a big story, it would of worked better on HBO as a TV series, adapted by Milch of course. One movie, even nearly 3 hours long, was never going to fit everything in. And what a long 3 hours it was! The cinema release should not have tried to be a copy of the book, there is just too much backstory to be told, save that for the extended DVD version. Peter Jackson had the same problem with the LORT trilogy, which has even more backstory than Watchmen. Instead of bloating the entire movie with continual flashbacks, he just put the important historical stuff at the beginning as a monologue spoken by Galadriel, it was all over in about ten minutes. The Watchmen movie had too much exposition, and not enough narrative. The main plot was interesting, but was always interrupted by the character flashbacks. I don't think this was good for the continuity of the film because it just drew out the conclusion longer and longer. Expand
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6
KhrisApr 4, 2009
The film on the overall looks good and tries to bring a big sense of morality. Even if the film is strongly based on the Comics, I felt like teased about super heroes, but it was more about ''we've been super The film on the overall looks good and tries to bring a big sense of morality. Even if the film is strongly based on the Comics, I felt like teased about super heroes, but it was more about ''we've been super heroes'' and the film didn't show off enough content and poorly brought on screen some romance. I felt the story being oky, but not well developped enough to bring a quality that equal the visual. It must have been a great movie for the fans, thought, but to bring morality and society critisms in that way isn't enough appealing to me... just like a bad super hero parody trying to say something. Just not my style. Expand
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10
fabiosApr 5, 2009
I am really glad that most of the users are actually putting positive comments I read the comic and watched the movie, the movie was great tons of action, a great story line, and to revive the book that rocked millions for so many years with I am really glad that most of the users are actually putting positive comments I read the comic and watched the movie, the movie was great tons of action, a great story line, and to revive the book that rocked millions for so many years with a movie, is a big honor, snyder took something that not a lot of people know about and turned it into a movie, I am willing to watch watchmen more than twice in the movie theater it deserves that, sure it isn't as good as the dark knight, but atleast watchmen lived up to it's hype. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
KevinCMay 10, 2009
Long and boring.
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9
RuisertTheGaelMay 17, 2009
I thought this was not only a good movie in its own right, it also was a very good conversion of the novel. Other than a few minor changes, it was fairly true to the original, and that's always a good thing, I think. I'll never I thought this was not only a good movie in its own right, it also was a very good conversion of the novel. Other than a few minor changes, it was fairly true to the original, and that's always a good thing, I think. I'll never understand why a filmmaker picks something that's good enough to adapt but yet must be changed, like could be improved by a bunch of Hollywood scriptwriters, like Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings mess. The only part of the Watchmen that I had a problem with is the ending change. Didn't improve on the original. And Rorschach, my favorite character, totally rocked. Excellent casting. Can't wait for the director's cut DVD. Expand
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10
WickerBMay 22, 2009
There are going to be alot of damn good movies this year, but I doubt one of them will override the awesome experience that is the first time of seeing Watchmen. It was flawless, simply. It exacted the graphic novel in every element. I even There are going to be alot of damn good movies this year, but I doubt one of them will override the awesome experience that is the first time of seeing Watchmen. It was flawless, simply. It exacted the graphic novel in every element. I even liked the ending better in the movie. This is everything movies should be. July 21st, Bluray and dvd. Expand
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5
NidheeshMMay 23, 2009
Great book by Alan Moore, bad movie by Zack Snyder....the movie looks as if it was made for people who have read the book...for the average cinema goer....the movie fails to be seductive in it that it does not captivate ones Great book by Alan Moore, bad movie by Zack Snyder....the movie looks as if it was made for people who have read the book...for the average cinema goer....the movie fails to be seductive in it that it does not captivate ones imagination...add to that the really sloppy editing and after the while...it gets boring..The Silk Scepter was awful and the comedian too glorified than in the book....the saving grace was the character of Rosarch...as was in the case of 300..Zack Snyder leaves his audience very detached. Expand
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10
AlexBMay 6, 2009
This is such a good adaptation. Fantastic film!!
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9
MartinJMay 8, 2009
It's very sad this move got "yellow" rating here. That would mean it's on par with awful films like "The Ruins" or "Hannah Montana" which it's definitely not! It has a lot of flaws but in general I really liked it. I It's very sad this move got "yellow" rating here. That would mean it's on par with awful films like "The Ruins" or "Hannah Montana" which it's definitely not! It has a lot of flaws but in general I really liked it. I don't remember when was the last time I've left the cinema with a big grin and then talked and thought about what I just saw for quite some time. I've liked it so much I went to see it again and I'm certainly going to buy it on blu-ray. My love to this movie probably comes from the fact that I've read the graphic novel first and then was positively surprised that Snyder didn't butcher the movie as I was afraid he will ;) To sum it up: It's a good movie that makes you think a bit . If you expect an mindless, Wolverine-style action movie then look somewhere else. P.S. I liked the ending. It's much more convincing in post 9/11 era we're living in than the original one. Expand
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8
MarkKJun 20, 2009
Although it isn't without it's flaws (being a little too faithful in terms of dialog and a very awkward sex scene) it's still a very entertaining film. Just make sure you read the graphic novel first. though.
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10
TJJul 15, 2009
Astonishing, visual and viseral feast, edge of the seat for entire movie, story is highly absorbing, even as a "virgin" to the story.
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6
IainWJul 3, 2009
Watchmen was a masterpeice of writing, for the people who believe comic books are childish, they ought to read the graphic novel and seriously re-consider their view, however as Alan Moore has stated, this is not a film, it is a comic book Watchmen was a masterpeice of writing, for the people who believe comic books are childish, they ought to read the graphic novel and seriously re-consider their view, however as Alan Moore has stated, this is not a film, it is a comic book and while this was a well put together, detailed film, even the simple change of how new york is attacked at the end of the film is proof that comic books fans will never get the true adaptation films that we hope for. Expand
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9
BenjaminP.Jul 30, 2009
Snyder didn't copy the original source panel-by-panel as much as he amazingly adapted it for the medium of film. The result is a visually impressive and uncommonly complex superhero movie.
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1
AndersNJul 4, 2009
I give this movie 1 for the philosophic speech dialogue but nothing more the rest was crap exept dr. Manhatten which was "well" done.
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8
JamesKAug 15, 2009
The first 15 minutes were amazing, went downhill from there.
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8
KatieR.Aug 2, 2009
Very faithful adaptation. Having read the book (about six times), I did recall bits as I went along. Such a shame they didn't include Hollis Mason's death and the reason why Dr. M was drawing the hydrogen symbol on his forehead! Very faithful adaptation. Having read the book (about six times), I did recall bits as I went along. Such a shame they didn't include Hollis Mason's death and the reason why Dr. M was drawing the hydrogen symbol on his forehead! Very frustrating. On the other hand, I now like Laurie Juspeczyk (Akerman). She was better in the film. And oh my god, Rorscach! Perfect casting or what?! Expand
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9
brookpAug 4, 2009
What a surprise this movie was. A thinking mans movie for sure, great story and character progression. poetic in nature with the type of wise dialogue you would expect in a indie art-house film coupled with great action with that matrix cool What a surprise this movie was. A thinking mans movie for sure, great story and character progression. poetic in nature with the type of wise dialogue you would expect in a indie art-house film coupled with great action with that matrix cool factor. watchmen is a slick sexy romp of a tale that i cant wait to see again. Kudos to zak. Expand
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7
halbAug 7, 2009
Actually better than I thought it might be. I'm not a comic book afficionada by any means, but I like a well-told dramatic story on the big screen. This movie is almost worth seeing just for the opening credits sequence alone! Bob Actually better than I thought it might be. I'm not a comic book afficionada by any means, but I like a well-told dramatic story on the big screen. This movie is almost worth seeing just for the opening credits sequence alone! Bob Dylan's The Times They Are A-changing is used brilliantly against a backdrop of comic-historic vignettes. Truly a brilliant opening. But then, as other reviewers have noted, it doesn't (can't?) really live up to this amazing opening page. Still I found it to be occasionally brilliant in certain scenes, just lacking overall coherence. Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Malin Akerman are especially good in their roles. This one is worth renting, but I'm sure it disappointed many Watchmen fans. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
Ikarus14Aug 7, 2009
About as good an adaption as we're going to get.
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9
FelixFAug 9, 2009
An excellent movie. I can't understand the low reviews. It's stylish, the way the story is layed out is compelling and intelligent. To me as a Sci-Fi lover this is breath of fresh air compared to the over laden cliche, good guy-bad An excellent movie. I can't understand the low reviews. It's stylish, the way the story is layed out is compelling and intelligent. To me as a Sci-Fi lover this is breath of fresh air compared to the over laden cliche, good guy-bad guy super heroes movies. This movie shows there is no good or bad and the way it does it, is briljant! It has been long time I had to pay attention to a story line when watching movie in this genre. Do yourself a favour watch it (twice) and don't mind the critics. We all knew what they had to say about Space Odyssee 2001. Expand
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5
ChristopherA.Jan 19, 2010
Watchmen was overall an okay movie. I liked the action and the romance in it. The best part was how they played out Walter Kovacs (aka Rorschach). However, I did not like the pace of the movie, it could have been shorter. Plus I don't Watchmen was overall an okay movie. I liked the action and the romance in it. The best part was how they played out Walter Kovacs (aka Rorschach). However, I did not like the pace of the movie, it could have been shorter. Plus I don't like there being bloodshed caused by torture and mutilating (which happened in the jail riot scene). I only accept it if it was in battle, like 300. Plus, this comic book film was inferior to that of most of the other comic films. They include the Spider-Man, Batman (except Batman and Robin), and the X-Men films. However, of all the comic movies I've seen, it was better than Batman and Robin, the Fantastic Four films, Elektra, and Catwoman (which I haven't seen, although I looked at its reception). Expand
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10
JoeFOct 17, 2009
Every super hero movie should be like this!
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8
TreyH.Oct 18, 2009
all i have to say is that why are you fan boys picking on watchmen you think it is easy to create a film this epic. I do have to say it was a littile bit long but who cares. I have read the comic book twice researched on it and even wrote all i have to say is that why are you fan boys picking on watchmen you think it is easy to create a film this epic. I do have to say it was a littile bit long but who cares. I have read the comic book twice researched on it and even wrote papers on why this is a good movie. all you people who think this is crap come on you have no patince there is nothing wrong with this film as a fan of the book i would say this is the cloest we are going to get anyway. why bad mouth a movie if al you are thinking about is how close it is to the comic when that is impossbile. and if you guys ever write some crap sayng it wasnt good you are just fat nerds trying to be picky. you dont have th attention span of a fat mouse. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
EvanSDec 7, 2009
Brilliant. I am astonished by the low scores. The source material, of course, is brilliant in its own right, but the movie manages to take the book from ink and skillyfully put it into motion. Rorschach moves in a peculiar, practiced motion Brilliant. I am astonished by the low scores. The source material, of course, is brilliant in its own right, but the movie manages to take the book from ink and skillyfully put it into motion. Rorschach moves in a peculiar, practiced motion that seems perfect for his disturbed persona. Adrian is swift and graceful. I would suggest that this movie is not for everyone, which perhaps explains the low scores. The movie and the graphic novel both have complicated plots that you really won't get all of the first time through, which may put off the typical comic book movie goer. On the other hand, the brutal violence and over-the-top everything may offend people who don't typically go for this kind of movie. Freaking amazing. Expand
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10
RobBMar 10, 2009
Big fan of the graphic novel and was amazed at how great a job the director did at staying true to the book. sooo many times in the movie i thought to myself how perfect it was. how exactly the same the scene was as in the book. rorschach i Big fan of the graphic novel and was amazed at how great a job the director did at staying true to the book. sooo many times in the movie i thought to myself how perfect it was. how exactly the same the scene was as in the book. rorschach i my new fav character. he was incredible. i really loved how all of the actors in the movie are pretty much no names. yes they have all done stuff before. but there isnt like a brad pit or any other big name in there. in my opinion that would have ruined the movie. I absolutely loved it. yes it was long but i only realized that when it was over and looked at my watch. I could have sat there longer. I cant wait for the blu ray. Expand
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10
KimberlyGMar 11, 2009
I thought the movie was pretty close to amazing. It met the expectations that I had from reading the graphic novel (with the exception of a few details that they left out). Rorschach and Silk Spectre II were dead on and all of their I thought the movie was pretty close to amazing. It met the expectations that I had from reading the graphic novel (with the exception of a few details that they left out). Rorschach and Silk Spectre II were dead on and all of their performances really reflected the deep psychological characteristics that each of the characters held. It is pretty long I guess, but regardless I would have stayed in the theatre two extra hours to see more of it. It's not the stereotypical "super-hero movie", so I would advise you not to take your children to go see it unless they can handle seeing gore, nudity, and sexuality. But if you are a fellow comic book nerd like myself and enjoyed "300," "V for Vendetta," and "The Matrix".... then grab your popcorn and Raisenettes and enjoy a mindblowing movie with awesome music and killer performances!!! Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BruceCMar 10, 2009
An excellent superhero movie - and very faithful to the graphic novel. Be warned that it is full of gory violence, nudity, and sex. This is not Batman and Robin beat up the Joker.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
MaxLMar 10, 2009
It's way to referential and made the movie boring after the first half an hour. Too bad, nice effect and the visual is arresting but the movie as a movie isn't very good. Too many slo-mos.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
johnlMar 11, 2009
I was a huge fan of 300, going into this i had the highest expectations because of the directing talent of zack snyde rbut this is honestly one of the WORST movies ive seen this year...i think its just getting so much hype because there isntI was a huge fan of 300, going into this i had the highest expectations because of the directing talent of zack snyde rbut this is honestly one of the WORST movies ive seen this year...i think its just getting so much hype because there isnt much else out right now...the only reason i am giving it a 2 is because it adapts the comic so well..i agree that its gritty and different but that doesnt mean that its entertaining..the movie just isnt very good and more often than not while watching it i just wanted it to end...wait for the dvd and wait for terminator or startrek. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful