Key Takeaways:
– Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the comic book giant was nearly bankrupt and sold the rights to several characters.
– One such character, Blade, was turned into a successful film in the late 90s when comic book movies weren't a guaranteed box-office hit.
– Aside from exciting action scenes, Blade also offers strong character dynamics and powerful performances.
– Despite critical CGI criticisms, the movie's choreography and overall design withstand the test of time.
– Director Stephen Norrington and lead actor Wesley Snipes' commitment to the project significantly contributed to its success.
Sophisticated comic blockbusters with multimillion-dollar budgets are common these days. However, back in the late 90s, the scenario was completely different. Marvel, which today owns a significant chunk of the movie industry, was on the brink of financial collapse. To stay afloat, the studio sold movie rights to several characters, including Blade, Spider-Man, and the X-Men.
New Line Cinema took over Blade, a half-human, half-vampire hybrid who's out to hunt his fellow bloodsuckers, thanks to his unique power set. Even though the Blade movie was associated with Marvel, few associated the dark vampire vigilante with the vibrant and lively Marvel brand. This was ironically to the film's advantage.
Now let's talk about the film's strong points that held the attention of audiences for nearly three decades. The opening sequence of the film sets the tone for what's to come; a gloriously 90s vampire rave turns into a slaughterhouse, grabbing viewers' attention from the start.
The performances are praiseworthy too. Wesley Snipes as Blade is rememberable, his cracked joke, expressive eyes, and catchy one-liners add a dash of style to his gravity-defying combat skills. The rich relationship dynamics between Blade and other characters are another highlight. The father-son bond between Blade and his mentor Whistler creates a layer of depth, contributing to Blade's charm.
The prime villain, Deacon Frost, chews up the scenery with his unpredictable demeanor, never wasting time on extensive monologues or cheesy exposition. While the CGI fell short by today's standards, the fight choreography and cinematography still stand out.
Moreover, the commitment of the cast and crew contributed significantly to the film's success. Even at a time when superhero movies were generally unpopular and unprofitable, everyone involved took the Blade project very seriously.
Unfortunately, director Stephen Norrington and lead actor Wesley Snipes grew weary of the franchise. As time passed, Snipes reportedly became difficult to work with, causing films to gradually fade off.
The recent cameo of Wesley Snipes' Blade in “Deadpool & Wolverine” had fans thrilled, reigniting their interest in the franchise. Despite a rehashed catchphrase and a tease at the forthcoming Blade film, this nudge fuels hopes for more Blade action in the future.
In conclusion, Blade (1998) remains an exhilarating, action-packed comic book film known for its impactful performances and compelling vampire narrative. The film might be marked by outdated CGI, but it truly captures the essence of a pre-MCU Marvel era, making it a must-watch for comic book film enthusiasts.
