It's Just Movies

— by CAM SMITH —

In the realm of original films practically demanding to be remade, “Clash of the Titans” was at the very forefront. With its dated effects, wobbly writing and wooden lead performance, there was so much to improve on, and such a rich tapestry of mythological storytelling to draw inspiration from.

Unfortunately, the Sam Worthington vehicle was utterly shredded in the editing room (read Chud.com’s intriguing look at what went down behind-the-scenes here), distorted into the one of the very worst 3D cash-grabs in modern history and then was generally met with harsh reviews and glazed-over stares from the majority of filmgoers.

On the IJM critical front, reception was also mixed. While I thought it was dull trash, our own Joel Crary was able to enjoy the film as a bombastically silly monster-fest.

However, disparate opinions mean little in the face of fat profit, and this “Clash” has been a reasonable-sized hit, with almost $400 million worldwide under its bulky, metal belt. Thus, Mr. Worthington and company are being forced back into leathers for a sequel which Legendary Pictures is hoping to have in theatres around Spring 2012. Good to see they’re taking their time with it…

As reported on Deadline, “Clash 2” will be scripted by “Green Lantern” writer Greg Berlanti, whose resume otherwise mostly consists of TV work on shows like “Everwood” and “Eli Stone” (both of which he also co-created). Although there’s no word yet on what Perseus’ adventures might entail on this second installment, there’s no shortage of mythical creatures and characters to exploit. Plus, maybe this time around the Gods can actually, you know, do something.

Interestingly, director Louis Leterrier won’t be returning to the fold, having chosen to opt out of helming in favor of taking an executive producer credit. Can’t say I blame the dude, given the editing room turmoil over “Clash” – a crummy situation which also strangely mirrored his experience in making “The Incredible Hulk” (though that film worked out a little better in the end for everyone, I think). As much as I’ve enjoyed Leterrier’s past work, “Clash of the Titans,” which featured chaotically-assembled, tension-free action sequences and unimaginative staging, didn’t really show him firing on all cylinders. Hopefully, he’ll now finally have the juice to oversee a film that allows his vision to remain intact throughout production.

As much as I was excited at getting to see the Kraken and Medusa return to the big-screen, they felt shabbily-used and generically designed. If a second “Clash” wants to stand any chance at again suckering in unsuspecting ticket-buyers, it needs to seriously deliver on its insanely fun premise and not feel lazy. While I can’t say that I’m even remotely eager to see Sam Worthington swing a magical sword at a CG beastie again, I’m sure that I’d be willing to whistle a different tune if the next director was willing to lighten up the proceedings a bit and craft a film that at least lived up to its goofy Manowar concept album title.

How do you guys feel about witnessing another “Clash of the Titans?” Have you gotten tired of Sam Worthington’s anti-charisma yet? Which monsters would you like to see clutter up the screen? Bring down the heavens on our comment section and in our forums (http://itsjustmovies.com/forum) and let us hear thy sonorous voices!

. . .

Follow Cam Smith on Twitter at http://twitter.com/camspcepisodes.