Finally, we are treated to a movie based on a comic book that
delivers everything that it should. "Blade" was truly
an enjoyable movie. It delivered the action and pace of the comic
while still adding new twists and surprises.
Snipes was perfect as the intense Blade. Snipes showed the
intensity and single mindedness of the main character while at
the same time being somewhat believable. If Blade had a lot of
lines and soliloquies, then it would not have been true to the
source. The additions of the other characters provide the
momentum for the plot so that there is no need.
Dorff was great as Deacon Frost. He was brilliantly and
understatedly evil. The only small complaint I had with him was
he was so young. I don't think that was an advantage and indeed
it made his references to history a little harder to swallow.
Not since "Batman" has such a good comic translation
been made. The new aspects to the vampire lore such as the new
ways of vampires using technology to help them (i.e. sunblock)
gave the movie a definite spice and kept the movie fresh. The
only complaint plot wise was the revelation that some of the
vampires were "pure blood" or born a vampire. But, they
never explain how that worked exactly. Vampires weren't shown
copulating, so I assumed they went with the traditional vampire
myth of vampires not needing sex. However, it was a minor point
and one easily overlooked.
"Blade" is a wonderful diversion for those who want to
simply be entertained for a couple of hours. Yes, it really
earned its "R" rating. Yes, it was cheesy. Yes, it had
way too many fight scenes. However, at the end when the lights
come up, that doesn't matter. You should leave the theater
feeling a bit gratified at your indulgence.
