Constantine
NBC, Fridays 10/9 Central
Oct 24, 2014
Web Exclusive
Based on the Hellblazer character created by Alan Moore, Steve Bissette, and John Totleben, Constantine is one of the less mainstream heroes in the DC Comics universe. Keanu Reeves portrayed him in the somewhat forgettable 2005 film of the same title, which was just about the most mainstream attention the character received. This fall, Matt Ryan (Criminal Minds) plays the occult detective on NBC, joined by his ever-faithful right hand, Chas (Charles Halford). Together, the duo monitors occult happenings on Earth, straddling the world between the living and the dead, Heaven and Hell. They track down demons that have escaped their realm and send them back to Hell. Constantine’s crippling baggage weighs down his efforts, leaving him fighting not just for the souls of the people he protects, but also for his own.
The fact that Constantine isn’t one of DC’s most recognizable characters works in the show’s favor. With less widespread pressure to get everything right, the show is able to appeal to a broad range of viewers. Astute and informed Constantine readers will relish spotting the Easter eggs producers dribble throughout—including a certain heroic Doctor’s helmet—while horror and paranormal fans in general will dig the dark happenings. Despite a healthy (and appropriate, given the source-material) mix of dark humor, nonchalance, and sarcasm, Constantine offers more than a few creepy moments. Jumpy viewers will jolt at the sudden appearance of demons or restless spirits, and those grossed out by creepy-crawlies will doubtlessly have to close their eyes on multiple occasions.
Constantine enters a burgeoning television horror market, joining the popular American Horror Story, The Strain, and The Walking Dead, among others, as weekly fear fare. Not only does it promise scares, but it looks good, moves quickly, and uses effects well and wisely. In a market that’s rapidly growing, Constantine does a commendable job distinguishing itself. (www.nbc.com/constantine)
Author rating: 6.5/10
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October 25th 2014
2:50pm
He doesn’t smoke. He whines to a complete stranger about his daddy issues. If there was ever a character that had no business being on network tv it was John Constantine. This feels a lot like when they rapped Indy.