When I heard there was a film version being made of Robert E. Howard’s “Solomon Kane” stories, I was ecstatic! I went back and reread some of the tales, relishing Howard’s rich language and riveting storytelling. Solomon Kane, one of Howard’s best characters, was a Puritan holy warrior, devoted to rooting out and destroying the evil forces that lurked just yonder in the dark forest. Throughout the course of his tales, his deeds cause readers to question whether he is a shining force or light or a lunatic with a gun and a cross. And when I heard the talented cast included James Purefoy, Max von Sydow, and Pete Postlethwaite (sniff…we miss you) — sold!
This was 2009.
The film did its thing in Europe, met with modest reviews and sales, and was soon forgotten, by myself as well. It became one of those “whatever-happened-with-that?” things.
But good news!
I learned from Black Gate recently that Solomon Kane will be released in the U.S. next month. Spread the word, dust off your cutlass, blunderbuss, and crucifix, and prepare! Even if it’s terrible (which most critics and viewers are saying it isn’t), it should be a great time.
