It seems that every other week we are seeing some new comic-book variant on the screen, be it in the Marvel Comic Universe on the big-screen or Disney+ or in DC trying to compete with the multi-mega-million world of entertainment media that seems to be dominating headlines with the advent of streaming, which has flourished during the recent global challenge.
It seems like ages ago that comic-book adaptations were considered poison at the box-office, but with the advent of the mega-blockbuster adaptation of BATMAN in 1989, the potential was ignited.
FRANK MILLER – AMERICAN GENIUS attempts to demystify the dreams and mindset of somebody who has defined the look and feel of worlds that have become the norm for fans of characters like the Caped Crusader and the Man Of Steel, ushering in a new imagination and emotional involvement with other graphic novels like Alan Moore and Dave Robbins’ WATCHMEN, which was adapted into a big-budget film.
The documentary also attempts to show some of the perspective of what mere drawings on a page can create in terms of empathy and identity for a worldwide network of illustrators who have been influenced by Miller’s unique style of drawing, as well as the contribution and influence he has had on film-makers like the late Richard Donner and Zack Snyder.
Director Silenn Thomas has assembled an interesting and intriguing expose of a man who was troubled by personal demons at times which also helped him evolve as a creative and although the film will first and foremost be aimed at the comic-book and geek following of those who love the characters, there is also something worthwhile of viewing potential for the neutrals who might not get a kick out of watching a man who dresses up as a bat at night to dance with the devil in the pale moonlight.
The London Independent Film Festival runs from 1st – 10th April 2022.
Tickets and info:
