Kraven the Hunter Movie Review: An Action-Packed Superhero Flick That Lacks Soul

Director JC Chandor, known for his compelling filmography, ventures into the superhero genre with Kraven: The Hunter. Unfortunately, the film falls short of expectations, delivering an average experience that leans more toward a generic action film than a memorable superhero spectacle.

The decision to portray Kraven as an animal-loving altruist feels inconsistent with his comic book roots as a self-serving trophy hunter, creating a disconnect for fans. The script is thin and uninspired, failing to inject much-needed energy or depth into the narrative. While the action sequences manage to hold attention, the performances feel underwhelming, even with a cast that includes heavyweight talent. The antagonist, Rhino, is excessively over-the-top and cartoonish, which further detracts from the film’s tone.

The Plot

The story revolves around Nikolai Kravinoff (Russell Crowe) and his two sons, Sergei (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and Dmitri (Fred Hechinger). Following their mother’s death, Nikolai involves his sons in his drug trafficking operations. During a hunting trip, Sergei is attacked by a lion while trying to protect Dmitri. This encounter irrevocably alters the family dynamic and leaves Sergei with animal-like instincts. After discovering his father killed the lion, Sergei becomes disillusioned, abandons his family, and moves to Russia, adopting the persona of Kraven, a feared hunter targeting criminals. However, his journey takes a perilous path when Dmitri is kidnapped by mercenaries.

The Issues

The film’s biggest flaw is its lack of focus. The plot is paper-thin, relying heavily on clichés, and the clunky dialogue shows little refinement. Subpar CGI further diminishes the experience, with lifeless animal allies that serve as constant distractions. The script’s attempt to blend a superhero origin story with family drama feels forced and shallow.

Performances

1. Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers in the action sequences but falters during more dramatic interactions, resulting in a performance that feels oddly flat.
2. Ariana DeBose is woefully underutilized, and her discomfort with the underdeveloped role is evident.
3. Russell Crowe brings a commanding presence, injecting some momentum into the plot.
4. Fred Hechinger shines as Dmitri, making the most of his slightly more nuanced role.

Action and Direction

The action sequences provide brief moments of excitement, particularly during Sergei’s rampage against mercenaries. However, the film heavily relies on generic super-strength tropes, ignoring Kraven’s more interesting animal-communing abilities. The third act’s chaotic editing further detracts from the already lackluster experience.

Antagonists and Humor

The antagonists have a campy energy that contrasts sharply with the film’s serious tone. Alessandro Nivola’s Rhino scratches at the edge of absurdity, delivering moments of unintentional comedy that undermine the story’s stakes.

Verdict

Kraven: The Hunter attempts to reimagine Sergei Kravinoff as a pro-animal antihero but misses the mark. Sony’s latest effort to expand its Spider-Man cinematic universe without Spider-Man himself ends up being a bland, overly serious action movie. With subpar CGI, underdeveloped characters, and a lack of narrative focus, the film fails to leave a lasting impression. While the performances from its star-studded cast occasionally rise above the material, they’re ultimately constrained by a poorly conceived script.

As a critic privileged enough to watch the film for free, I recommend skipping Kraven: The Hunter and donating the cost of a ticket to the Lion Recovery Fund or a similar cause. Time and money are better spent elsewhere.