Being half Greek with an intermediate knowledge of Greek mythology, I went into "Immortals" hoping to be pleasantly surprised. My brash skepticism was soon met with the brutal reality that this movie was everything I was expecting it to be; a not-quite-as-good version of "300."
Behind the slow-motion decapitations and CGI blood-splatter is a painfully hollow film. Don't worry though; there's more than enough visual satiation to keep you entertained throughout. "Immortals" is ever-so-loosely based on the classic Greek mythology tale of Theseus and the Minotaur, one of my personal favorites growing up. Unfortunately, this is so far removed that it can barely be dubbed a retelling. The film focuses primarily on King Hyperion (Mickey Rourke) and the war he waged on humanity.
Mickey Rourke is surprisingly fitting as King Hyperion, and he happens to be the main source of entertainment in the film. In fact, his character is more developed than the lead, Theseus, played by Henry Cavill. Theseus has little to no character development and you're reminded as much throughout the entire film. Even Theseus' triumphant wartime speech to his fellow men feels forced and completely uninspired. Various lesser-known tales are thrown into the plot mix, but for the most part the film is essentially a mishmash of ancient Greek mythos. I was actually glad to see the inclusion of the brazen bull though, one of the best torture devices ever conceived.
Building upon that one positive note, "Immortals" does have some highlights, surprising as it may be. The wardrobe department specifically spared no expense on the slew of costumes used throughout the film. The garb adorned by King Hyperion and his army are particularly memorable. I'm talking hooded masks, headdresses and armor so elaborate that even Lady Gaga couldn't help but be impressed. The cinematography is at times awe-inspiring, especially the grandiose wide zooms used during the battle sequences.
The CGI, while evident, is not distracting in the least bit. In fact, it would appear that we may finally be over the hump of grossly offensive CGI effects, at least in terms of big-budget movies. A lot of the action sequences are highlighted by the CGI rather than hindered by it. When it comes to movies such as this, sometimes it's best to just turn off your brain for 90 minutes and enjoy the luxuries computer graphics have afforded us. It's a popcorn flick for people who don't want to be bored with actual historical details but instead want eye-candy served up by the megaton for an hour and a half. At its very core, "Immortals" is nothing more than Calvin Klein models reenacting Greek mythology.