Watchmen

An extremely different and very cool "superhero" movie. I understand fans of the graphic novel have issues with the film but having not read the story, I found it original and very entertaining. Director Zack Synder has found his niche, first with "300" and now "Watchmen".

These "superheroes" don't have powers (except one) and rely on weapons and fighting skills to get the job done. Many of the group are not even likeable. They live among us in an "alternate" 1985 where Richard Nixon is still president and we've won the Vietnam War. When one of them is killed, it sets off a chain of events that have repercussions on the fate of mankind.

The visuals are stunning (especially in IMAX) and the acting is what you'd expect when your character walks around in a heavy rubber or spandex costume. Jackie Earle Haley steals the film as "Rorschach", the "watchman" who narrates the story and seems to be having the most fun with his dark role. He also has the best line in the film, which I understand is a direct quote from the novel. The film also features Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Patrick Wilson, Carla Gugino, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, and Malin Akerman.

You may be confused at first if you are unfamiliar with the story, but it all comes together in a spectacular way. It's a trippy fun time at the movies. And I'd be remiss to not point out the terrific opening credit sequence and the excellent soundtrack.