DJG / Watchmen

Watchmen * * * * ½
Directed by: Zack Snyder / 2009

Just as the bar was raised when “Watchmen” was released in print and picture form, so it has for the super hero and comic book movie. Director Zack Snyder has proved he’s the ultimate fan boy and so did the smell of b.o. from theater goers who hadn’t bathed or left their Mom’s basement since purchasing their first issue of “Watchmen” back in the 1980s. A few more tweaks and a few more months “Watchmen” woulda/coulda/shoulda been perfect. Like all fans of the book, I too was worried. With the close of opening weekend, many will disown it like its creator Alan Moore, but I find the film standing on its own as a work of art and genius. Aside from a few sub-plots either skimmed or skipped, an altered ending, the nauseating blast of My Chemical Romance bastardizing a beautiful Bob Dylan song over the end credits and Snyder's choice of over-top in the sexual conquest department, “Watchmen” was a joy and one of the most unique film experiences I’ve been absorbed in. In fact, the opening credits had my goosebumps weeping. I wouldn’t even know how to begin to make a movie, let alone an adaptation of something like this…and in this way. “The Dark Knight” can officially choke on its guano.

-djg