Original Version of ‘The Crow’ Lands New Streaming Home on January 1

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As a cinephile who has witnessed the ebb and flow of cinematic trends for decades, I can confidently say that the 2024 reimagining of “The Crow” was a missed opportunity, to put it mildly. However, the original 1994 masterpiece, starring the late, great Brandon Lee, is about to soar onto Paramount+ on January 1st, 2025, like a phoenix rising from the ashes of remake disappointments.

This film isn’t just another movie; it’s a testament to raw emotion, a visual symphony that resonates with audiences even three decades after its release. The dark undertones, the sleek style, and Brandon Lee’s unforgettable portrayal of Eric Draven make “The Crow” a timeless classic that transcends generations.

Now, let me tell you a little secret. If you think the 2024 version was bad, wait until you see the third one. Yes, you read it right – the infamous “The Crow: Salvation,” currently available on other platforms, is nowhere to be found on Paramount+. I’ve seen better movies made by my cat during her afternoon naps.

So, dear fellow film enthusiasts, mark your calendars for January 1st, 2025. Gather your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare yourself for a cinematic journey that will remind you why we all fell in love with “The Crow” in the first place – on Paramount+. And remember, if you don’t like it, well, let’s just say there are worse movies out there… like “The Crow: Salvation.

As a fervent admirer, I’d venture to say that the words “disappointed” fall short in expressing the collective sentiment towards the 2024 reinterpretation of “The Crow.” Directed by Rupert Sanders and featuring Bill Skarsgård, this film was both a critical and commercial failure, managing to earn only $24 million at the box office against a production budget of $50 million. In an attempt to recoup some of their losses, Lionsgate made it available on VOD barely a month after its cinematic release. However, by then, the damning reviews had already circulated, describing it as painfully cringeworthy. Though this new rendition may have left a bitter taste, you can undoubtedly cleanse your palate by streaming the original masterpiece when it finds its new home on its streaming platform come January 1st.

According to Paramount+, “The Crow” is set to take flight on their streaming service as we welcome the new year, effectively erasing the remake from memory. Starring Brandon Lee in his last film role, this movie revolves around Eric Draven, a musician who plays rock music, who is brought back from the dead to avenge the murder of himself and his fiancée at the hands of a ruthless gang. Originally based on the 1989 comic book series with the same name, the 1994 adaptation of “The Crow” stood out dramatically in comparison to the 2024 film in every significant aspect, earning $94 million and garnering critical and audience acclaim.

Beginning on Jan. 1st, Paramount+ will feature two films from the “The Crow” franchise that have received less-than-favorable reviews: “The Crow: City of Angels,” a sequel released in 1996, and “The Crow: Wicked Prayer,” which came out in 2005. The latter is often considered the weakest film in the series. Starring Edward Furlong (Terminator 2), it has a 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and lacks many positive qualities, but for completists who wish to view the entire franchise, it’s available to watch. Notably absent from the Paramount+ lineup is “The Crow: Salvation,” the third film in the series, which can be streamed on other platforms like Hulu, Peacock, and Prime Video.

‘The Crow’ Still Holds Up Today

Three decades after its initial release, The Crow – directed by Alex Proyas – remains relevant due to several factors that resonate with modern audiences. This film is not just a genre classic, but also a timeless exploration of themes such as love, loss, and mourning, which are deeply personal and relatable experiences for many viewers. Additionally, its dark undertones are accentuated by exceptional cinematography, making The Crow a visual tour de force that continues to captivate audiences today.

As a long-time fan of action films, I can confidently say that the 1994 version of “The Crow” stands out as one of the most memorable and impactful movies of its time. The performance of Brandon Lee, who embodied the titular character with an intensity that was arguably beyond anything his father, the legendary Bruce Lee, had ever delivered on screen. To put it into perspective, I’ve watched countless martial arts films throughout my life, and I can honestly say that this portrayal left a lasting impression on me.

The supporting cast of Ernie Hudson, Rochelle Davis, and Michael Wincott was equally impressive, elevating the film to another level altogether. The ensemble delivered heartfelt performances that were grounded in reality, making it easy for viewers to connect with the characters and their experiences.

In my opinion, “The Crow” was a breath of fresh air compared to other films during that time period. It offered an authentic portrayal of ordinary people dealing with extraordinary events, devoid of the cheese often associated with similar movies. I believe this is what made it so special and enduring for audiences like myself who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and exceptional performances.

Although the 2024 remake of “The Crow” didn’t meet expectations, fans can look forward to revisiting the original masterpiece as it returns to our screens in 2025. Don’t miss it when it streams exclusively on Paramount+ starting January 1st, 2025.

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2024-12-31 20:31