Hansel & Gretel Witch Hunters

This one is basically is a continuation of the Hansel & Gretel story (like all the really cool parts we missed). Worth it? For me 100% yes. Having said that, there are some things that take a bit of getting used to. Gretel drops some F bombs that are pretty unexpected for a period piece. Also the language overall is like watching A KNIGHTS TALE where they pretty much just throw down average everyday dialogue for 90 minutes. The story line is easy to figure out even before they tell you what's going on. The film also over does it pace wise (like, take this pebble from my hand speed) especially concerning some of the fight scenes I would have rather seen slowed down 300 style.

Now, for the great stuff. The soundtrack is amazing. The opening graphics are amazing. The 3D is WELL WORTH ADMISSION and for overall entertainment value you want to see this now. The casting of Famke Janssen as the lead witch is not only genius (because she plays psychos A LOT), it kind of leaves you wishing that she shows up again in another installment. Gemma Arterton (CLASH OF THE TITANS, PRINCE OF PERSIA ) as Gretel is a little tough to relate to as well as Hansel played by Jeremy Renner (AVENGERS and other really amazing movies), but the roles are so much fun, most of you won’t care. Having said that, if you are not into slice em dice em, digital explosions and basically a ton of what you see in the previews, you may want to put it on the "rental" list in 6 months. As for me, I can’t wait to buy the DVD /BLU RAY. 

It kind of makes me think if Zenescope was ever going to make a live action movie, it would be referring to this as source material for how stuff should look. Only I would pray they would also find Famke and say “you play freaks a lot, and you are really good at it, be in our movie.” Oh and one other note, this movie is loaded with weapons and ideas that I honestly wish were real. Not to give too much away but one of them is an air pump external defibrillator.

I give this one a solid 4 out of 7. REALLY GOOD – This movie was better than expected after critics killed it. It does have that “I think I may have seen this before feeling” but you haven’t, it’s all in your head. This movie was likely redeemed by some amazing actor or actress like Hugh Jackman or Kate Beckinsale.

-- Jess Hurley