Golly, where to start… I should probably tell you what my expectations were and I can best do that by starting with what they weren’t. More after the break…
I was not expecting a cinematic drama of award-winning proportions or a historically accurate representation of the era and Civil War. What I expected was a special effects explosions with a cheesy nonsense plot and pedestrian character that were passable for a few hours entertainment. What I’d hoped for was a serious (as much as possible) exploration of an alternate history where ancient vampires vied secretly for control of the United States.
What I got was a reasonable alternate history with plenty of tie-backs to the real thing and plenty vampire chopping action with just of hint of historical drama thrown in for good measure. There were plenty of awesome action scenes with honest Abe wielding an ax against the forces of darkness. Furthermore, I think Benjamin Walker does a fine job of juggling presidential and action-hero titles at the same time. There was plenty of period drama highlighting Abe’s moral strength as well as his weaknesses. Various historical moments get representation though somewhat rearranged from their original versions. These rearrangements, of course, allow for plenty vampire action as the story progresses. The pacing was excellent as the movie shifted between action sequences and historical recreation. We get to see Abraham’s development from a scrappy boy to brash but intelligent young man all the way to a wise man worthy of the title of President. All in all I give the film high marks for being entertaining and allowing the American public to imagine what a cinematic hero President would be like!
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