In 1994, Brandon Lee, son of legendary martial artist Bruce Lee, made movie history on and off-screen with The Crow. The drama, based on the revenge-themed comics of James O’Barr, told the tragic tale of Eric Draven, a man who is brutally murdered, but returns from the dead to seek vengeance on the gangbangers who killed him and raped and murdered his fiancée. The Alex Proyas directed feature earned critical acclaim and became an iconic ’90s film with its striking visuals, rock-infused soundtrack, and Lee’s gripping performance. Sadly, in a heartbreaking case of art imitating life, Lee died from a freak accident during the film’s production.
For many fans, the brilliance of the original film coupled with the tragedy of Lee’s death have made The Crow an untouchable classic of the revenge fantasy genre.
Despite two unimpressive sequels, talk of a remake has existed for some time. The remake is to be penned by songwriter/screenwriter Nick Cave (The Proposition) and directed by Stephen Norrington (Blade). And Bloody Disgusting has broken news that Mark Wahlberg has been tapped to star as the tragic hero.
While I am generally a fan of Walhberg (let’s all collectively agree to forget The Happening and never speak of it again), it seems an odd choice for this inherently brooding antihero. But to be honest, I’m such a fan of the original that even with Cave and Norrington on board, I can’t think of anyone I’d want to see put on the black and white face paint. I know Hollywood loves a franchise, but can’t any film be left alone?
What do you think about the latest news on The Crow remake?