Controversial film so violent it's 'nearly unwatchable' added to Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video subscribers are now in for a cinematic showdown with 2024's most divisive silver screen offering, The Crow . The platform' s freshest arrival has caused viewers to take to the internet to share their thoughts, as its reimagined violence reaches levels some critics are calling "so violent it's nearly unwatchable." Unleashed onto the streaming giant's service, this bold take on the beloved '90s classic is ready for consumption.

Revisiting both the iconic comic and propelling the original movie saga, introduced in 1994, into today's era, the film cuts a new trail amidst Hollywood's nostalgia-driven landscape. Echoing through the buzz is the somber note of actor Brandon Lee's tragic demise at the tender age of 28 while leading the seminal movie. A fatal on-set mishap claimed Lee's life, prompting extensive script rewrites and filming maneuvers to salvage the feature sans its star.



The rumblings of reviving The Crow began in 2008, with Tinseltown's finest—names like Mark Wahlberg, Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Channing Tatum, James McAvoy, Tom Hiddleston, and Luke Evans—all eyed for the coveted central role over time. Yet, despite such an illustrious roster of potential leads, the attempt continuously met fan pushback and a drumbeat of objection against rebooting a revered classic. Even Alex Provas, helmsman of the first cinematic venture, stood his ground in a public plea back in 2019, declaring, "It's not just a movie that can be remade.

It's one man's legacy. And it should be treated with that level of respect." James O'Barr, the creative genius behind The Crow comic, once confessed that Brandon Lee's tragic death hit him hard, echoing the pain of losing his own fiancée and leading to a moment of regret over creating the comic.

But in 2014, O'Barr made it clear that the upcoming project isn't just a rehash of the original movie; it's a fresh take on the book, much like the various versions of Bram Stoker's Dracula. Bill Skarsgard, who creeped us out in IT and starred in the Nosferatu remake, steps into the shoes of Eric Draven, also known as The Crow. FKA Twigs joins him as Shelley, Draven's doomed love interest.

The pair play ill-fated lovers whose destiny is sealed by Shelley's haunting past. When given the chance to rescue his love by laying down his own life, Draven sets off on a revenge mission against those responsible for their demise, crossing between life and death to settle the score. Despite the shadow cast by Lee's untimely passing, three more standalone sequels came after the original, each with a new lead and character taking up the mantle of The Crow.

Yet, these follow-ups didn't quite hit the mark with critics or fans. The 2024 re-adaptation has stirred up a storm of mixed feelings among viewers. Scoring a lowly 21% on Rotten Tomatoes, it's left many wondering if it was even needed.

One reviewer didn't mince words, slamming it, "It is also so violent it is very nearly unwatchable." The Crow fanatics are hyped for the 2024 revival, praising it as a genuine recreation of the comic instead of just rehashing the beloved 1994 cult classic. The chatter among devotees reveals a robust defense against any critics.

One enthusiast posted: "Everyone throwing shade at the Crow 2024 are missing the major point. It's not a remake of the 1994 film, but rather a rework of the original comic book/story line." This fresh iteration enthuses fans with its high-caliber production accolades like: "Well acted, great effects, The Matrix meets John Wick, in Goth style.

Doesn't stray far from the original book, even get to see some still art from O'Barr's brain acted out on film. Hidden gem, well worth the time and a watch." Voices from the crowd join in harmony, one expressing: "The Crow is a stunning reimagining of the cult classic, blending modern visuals with a timeless tale of love and vengeance.

While it may not entirely capture the raw intensity and gothic charm that made the 1994 original so iconic, it still delivers a powerful and emotionally charged narrative." They continue by highlighting the movie's unique spin, saying, "The film stays true to the spirit of its predecessor while introducing fresh elements that resonate with contemporary audiences. The haunting performance by Bill Skarsgard, combined with a beautifully atmospheric soundtrack, ensures that this retelling is a worthy homage that stands strong on its own merits.

" However, not all are swayed, with some critics bluntly labeling the new release as a 'waste of time', hinting that viewers might find more enjoyment in revisiting the beloved original, which is also available on Amazon Prime. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter..