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W.A.S.P. has always been a band that embraced the raw power of heavy metal while pushing the boundaries of its creative vision. Bonus Tracks & B-Sides, the final disc in The 7 Savage box set, is a treasure trove for die-hard fans, offering a glimpse into the unpolished, experimental, and daring side of W.A.S.P. This collection compiles rare tracks, dynamic covers, and deep cuts that showcase the band’s versatility and passion for their craft. Kicking off with the incendiary “Animal (F**k Like A Beast),” the disc immediately reminds us why W.A.S.P. carved their name into the annals of rock history. This controversial anthem, unapologetically provocative, set the tone for the band’s rebellious spirit.
Among the gems, “Paint It Black” and “Mississippi Queen” highlight the band's knack for reinterpreting classics with a ferocious metal edge, paying homage to their influences while making the tracks undeniably their own. Similarly, their take on Jethro Tull’s “Locomotive Breath” and Led Zeppelin’s “When The Levee Breaks” demonstrates their ability to merge technical mastery with unrelenting energy.
Original tracks like “Savage” and “Flesh and Fire” ooze with the raw, theatrical intensity that defines W.A.S.P.’s signature sound, while “D.B. Blues” offers a playful departure into an unexpected, almost tongue-in-cheek territory.
The haunting “Phantoms In The Mirror” and the reflective “The Eulogy” offer a darker, more introspective tone, contrasting beautifully with the thunderous “War Cry.” And then there’s “The Story Of Jonathan (Prologue To The Crimson Idol),” a sprawling 16-minute opus that provides a deeper dive into the conceptual world of The Crimson Idol, revealing the depth of Blackie Lawless’s storytelling ambition.
Bonus Tracks & B-Sides isn’t just a collection of outtakes—it’s a celebration of the chaos, creativity, and charisma that made W.A.S.P. one of the most electrifying bands in rock history.
BMG, in partnership with Rhino Entertainment, announces the release of ‘Out Of The Cellar’ 40th Anniversary, celebrating RATT’s massively successful first studio album with Limited Edition versions which include an UNRELEASED TRACK recorded during the 1983 Out of the Cellar sessions.
Formed in Los Angeles, RATT was featured as an unsigned act on Uncle Joe Benson’s Local Licks Drive Time Show on KLOS-FM. This was their first time on radio and led to their signing to Atlantic Records.
Featuring the classic line up of Stephen Pearcy (vocals), Warren DeMartini (guitars), Robbin Crosby (guitars), Juan Croucier (bass/vocals), and Bobby Blotzer (drums), RATT exploded on to the national scene in 1984 with the release of ‘Out Of The Cellar.’
Featuring an undeniable hook and legendary music video, the lead single “Round And Round” hit #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, while ‘Out Of The Cellar’ reached #7 on the Billboard Top 200 and was certified triple platinum. Two more charting singles followed with “Back For More” and “Wanted Man”.
Out of the Cellar became a huge success, and after the album was released, the band went on a world tour, selling out stadiums and arenas worldwide and sharing a stage with acts such as Ozzy Osborne, Iron Maiden, Mötley Crüe, Twisted Sister and more.
This Limited Edition of Out Of The Cellar is being released in red and black splatter vinyl with a lenticular cover and an additional neon orange 7” with the unreleased track ‘Reach for the Sky’, as well as a Limited Edition CD format with lenticular cover and unreleased track.
Out Of The Cellar Tracklisting 1. Wanted Man (Cristofanilli/Crosby/Pearcy) 2. You’re In Trouble (DeMartini/Pearcy/Crosby) 3. Round And Round (DeMartini/Pearcy/Crosby) 4. In Your Direction (Pearcy) 5. She Wants Money (Croucier) 6. Lack Of Communication (Croucier/Pearcy) 7. Back For More (Pearcy/Crosby) 8. The Morning After (DeMartini/Pearcy/Crosby) 9. I’m Insane (Crosby) 10. Scene Of The Crime (Crosby/Croucier) 11. BONUS TRACK: Reach for the Sky (Crosby/Pearcy/Torien) Also available are brand new Limited Edition color vinyl versions of the albums Reach for the Sky, Invasion Of Your Privacy, Detonator and Dancing Undercover.
IRON MAIDEN will start their RUN FOR YOUR LIVES WORLD TOUR on May 27th next year in Budapest followed by 27 stadium, festival & arena shows around Europe. The tour marks 50 years since Steve Harris formed the band in late 1975 and, to celebrate this, Maiden fans are promised a very special set list, spanning the nine studio albums from ‘Iron Maiden’ to ‘Fear Of The Dark’, with their most spectacular and elaborate show ever! Dates are as below. Tickets go on sale from Friday 27th September 12pm at Livenation.co.uk. As always there will be an exclusive pre-sale for Iron Maiden Fan Club members & Trooper VIP packages will be available at all UK & Ireland shows. Says lead singer Bruce Dickinson, “Next year is a very special one for IRON MAIDEN and we’re going to be giving our fans a once-in-a-lifetime live experience. This is a tour that’s gonna put a smile on your face and a cheer in your throat. If you’ve seen us before, then get ready to take that experience to a whole new level. If you’ve never seen us before, then what the hell have you been waiting for? Now’s your chance to find out what you’ve been missing! IRON MAIDEN’s definitely gonna get ya!” The tour includes five shows in the UK and Ireland, with arenas in Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow, and outdoor shows in Dublin and London. So it is with immense pride that IRON MAIDEN will celebrate their 50th Anniversary with one of the most notable concerts in their history. On Saturday June 28th the band will perform at the London Stadium, home of West Ham Football Club – the team that band founder Steve Harris has supported throughout his life, and with whom IRON MAIDEN have a long and storied history. This concert in front of over 60,000 fans at the London Stadium, which was constructed in Stratford for the 2012 Olympics and four years later became the new home of West Ham, will be the first time that IRON MAIDEN have performed on the club’s hallowed turf. A true homecoming show – with Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith & Nicko McBrain all born in the surrounding area – it will also be the biggest UK venue the band have ever headlined outside of their festival appearances. Steve Harris says, “My love of football and my support of West Ham is no secret, and I know many of our fans around the world have shared that with me too. So we’re all very excited to be playing at the London Stadium as part of the RUN FOR YOUR LIVES tour. And of course, it’s not just London – the whole UK tour is going to be a real celebration for all of us. To be able to bring this very special show to all our fans across the UK and Ireland next year is going to be a great way to mark 50 years of IRON MAIDEN. We can’t wait to see you all there!” Special Guests for the London & Dublin outdoor shows will be American rockers Halestorm. British metal band, The Raven Age, will open all five UK & Ireland shows. UK & IRELAND TOUR DATES 2025 Sat 21st - Utilita Arena, Birmingham, England (w/ The Raven Age) Sun 22nd - Co-op Live, Manchester, England (w/ The Raven Age) Wed 25th - Malahide Castle, Dublin, Ireland (w/ Halestorm + The Raven Age) Sat 28th - London Stadium, London, England (w/ Halestorm + The Raven Age) Mon 30th - OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland (w/ The Raven Age) Manager Rod Smallwood adds, “50 years of Maiden and I have seen 46 of them! With well over 100 million albums sold and almost 2500 shows in 64 countries and counting, to countless millions of fans, we are all still loving every second and consider every tour a new challenge to bring something different and exciting to our fans. And for this very special one we’ re pulling out all the stops! We will cover classics and fan favourites from the first nine albums, from IRON MAIDEN to FEAR OF THE DARK, many of which we haven’t played in years and many we will likely never play again in the future. We have already been hard at work for months putting together an even more spectacular and elaborate new show which will bring the songs to life more than we have ever been able to do before. This is going to be a huge couple of years for IRON MAIDEN, and Eddie of course, and we are very excited about what we have up our sleeves for you fans throughout the whole of our 50th year. I promise you are all going to be very happy indeed!” MAY 2025 Tue 27th - Budapest Aréna, Budapest, Hungary * Sat 31st - Letnany Airport, Prague, Czech Republic * JUNE 2025 Sun 1st - TIPOS Arena, Bratislava, Slovakia * Thu 5th - Trondheim Rocks, Trondheim, Norway (Festival) Sat 7th - SR-Bank Arena, Stavanger, Norway * Mon 9th - Royal Arena, Copenhagen, Denmark * Thu 12th - 3Arena, Stockholm, Sweden * Fri 13th - 3Arena, Stockholm, Sweden * Mon 16th - Olympic Stadium, Helsinki, Finland * Sat 21st - Utilita Arena, Birmingham, England ^ Sun 22nd - Co-op Live, Manchester, England ^ Wed 25th - Malahide Castle, Dublin, Ireland *^ Sat 28th - London Stadium, London, England *^ Mon 30th - OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland ^ JULY 2025 Thu 3rd - Eurockéennes Festival, Belfort, France (Festival) Sat 5th - Estadio Cívitas Metropolitano, Madrid, Spain ** Sun 6th - MEO Arena, Lisbon, Portugal ** Wed 9th - Hallenstadion, Zurich, Switzerland ** Fri 11th - Veltins-Arena, Gelsenkirchen, Germany ** Sun 13th - Stadio Euganeo, Padova, Italy ** Tue 15th - Bürgerweide, Bremen, Germany ** Thu 17th - Ernst Happel Stadium, Vienna, Austria ** Sat 19th - Paris La Défense Arena, Paris, France ** Wed 23rd - GelreDome, Arnhem, Netherlands ** Fri 25th - Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt, Germany ** Sat 26th - Cannstatter Wasen, Stuttgart, Germany ** Tue 29th - Waldbühne, Berlin, Germany ** AUGUST 2025 Sat 2nd - PGE Narodowy, Warsaw, Poland ** Support acts *Halestorm ^The Raven Age ** Avatar Having been established in 1975 in the East End of London IRON MAIDEN have, over the course of 17 studio albums, more than 110 million records sold and some of the greatest world tours that music has ever witnessed, become one of the greatest and most influential British rock bands of all time. Yet despite their enormous success, they have remained down to earth and true to their roots throughout their career. IRON MAIDEN are currently on the road completing their acclaimed The Future Past Tour dates, which started earlier this month in Australia and New Zealand and continues through Japan, Canada, United States, Mexico, Colombia, Chile and Argentina before concluding in Sao Paulo, Brazil with two concerts at the huge Allianz Parque Stadium in December.
This week on Rockin The Movies we look in detail at ALL of the movies from the Crow franchise!!
So don your dark glasses and black coat and let’s dive in…
Let’s start with the original and still the best movie in the franchise.
The Crow is a 1994 American supernatural action film that became iconic due to its dark visual style, powerful performances, and the tragic death of its lead actor, Brandon Lee. Directed by Alex Proyas and based on the 1989 comic book by James O’Barr, the film tells a tale of vengeance, love, and redemption, all wrapped in a gothic atmosphere that resonated with audiences. With its moody, atmospheric cinematography and a groundbreaking soundtrack, *The Crow* remains a cult classic in the realm of comic book adaptations and gothic cinema.
Synopsis of The Crow The film follows Eric Draven, a musician who, along with his fiancée Shelly Webster, is brutally murdered on the night before their wedding by a gang of thugs. A year after their deaths, Eric is resurrected by a mystical crow that guides him to seek revenge on those responsible for their murders. Eric, now a supernatural avenger, uses his newfound abilities—immortality and invulnerability—to hunt down the gang members and their leader, Top Dollar, who orchestrated the attack. Throughout his journey, Eric grapples with the pain of losing Shelly and confronts the moral implications of his vengeance.
Main Characters and Cast - **Eric Draven/The Crow** – *Brandon Lee*: A murdered musician who returns from the dead to avenge his and his fiancée's deaths.
- **Top Dollar** – *Michael Wincott*: The film's main antagonist, the ruthless crime lord responsible for ordering the murders of Eric and Shelly. - **Shelly Webster** – *Sofia Shinas*: Eric's fiancée, whose death motivates Eric's revenge.
- **Sergeant Albrecht** – *Ernie Hudson*: A compassionate cop who assists Eric in his quest for justice. - **Sarah** – *Rochelle Davis*: A young girl who was close to Eric and Shelly before their deaths and becomes emotionally tied to Eric’s journey.
- **T-Bird** – *David Patrick Kelly*: One of the gang leaders involved in the attack on Eric and Shelly. - **Skank** – *Angel David*: Another gang member, one of the targets of Eric's vengeance. - **Funboy** – *Michael Massee*: A sadistic gang member, also involved in Shelly's murder.
Brandon Lee's Iconic Performance. He made the film his own Brandon Lee, son of legendary martial artist and actor Bruce Lee, brought an extraordinary depth and sensitivity to the role of Eric Draven. His portrayal of the tortured soul, torn between love and revenge, was both haunting and emotionally charged. Lee’s performance captured the pain, vulnerability, and relentless drive of a man who had lost everything but was given a chance to right the wrongs done to him. His charisma and physicality made the character not just a dark anti-hero, but a tragic figure whose emotional core was palpable on screen.
What made *The Crow* especially iconic was how Lee embraced the character’s inner torment and desire for justice. His poetic movements, combined with the eerie, supernatural elements of the film, created a mesmerizing portrayal that resonated deeply with audiences. The character of Eric Draven, largely thanks to Lee’s performance, became a symbol of justice from beyond the grave, delivering vengeance to the wicked and offering peace to the broken-hearted.
Life imitates art: Brandon Lee’s Death
Tragically, Brandon Lee's life was cut short during the production of *The Crow* due to a fatal accident on set. On March 31, 1993, while filming a scene where Eric Draven is shot, Lee was struck by a bullet fragment from a faulty prop gun. The incident occurred toward the end of the film's production, and though much of Lee’s footage had already been shot, several key scenes were unfinished. The filmmakers completed the movie using stand-ins, special effects, and rewrites, but Lee’s untimely death cast a shadow over the film’s release. Lee’s death had a profound impact on both the film and its reception. Many viewers approached the movie with a sense of solemnity, knowing that this would be the last time they would see the actor on screen. The themes of life, death, and resurrection, already central to the film, took on an even more poignant and tragic resonance given the circumstances.
Production and Visual Style Director Alex Proyas crafted *The Crow* with a striking visual style, blending gothic, punk, and noir elements to create a dark, atmospheric world. The film’s use of shadow, rain-soaked streets, and decaying urban landscapes heightened the sense of bleakness and despair, reflecting Eric’s inner turmoil. The movie’s palette was dominated by dark tones—blacks, greys, and deep reds—giving it an otherworldly feel that emphasized its supernatural themes. The action sequences were choreographed with precision and intensity, often set against a backdrop of brooding skies and crumbling buildings, which heightened the film’s tension. The crow itself, a symbol of Eric’s link to the afterlife, became a visual motif, guiding the viewer through the narrative and reinforcing the mystical elements of the story. The movie’s music was equally important in setting its tone, with a blend of grunge, alternative rock, and industrial sounds providing a sonic counterpart to the film’s grim atmosphere.
Music and Soundtrack: a goth and emo masterpiece The soundtrack to *The Crow* is often cited as one of the best of the 1990s, and it played a crucial role in the film’s cultural impact. Featuring a mix of popular bands and underground artists, the music captured the mood of the era and complemented the film’s dark, rebellious tone. Some of the artists featured on the soundtrack included The Cure, Nine Inch Nails, Stone Temple Pilots, and Rage Against the Machine, bands whose brooding, aggressive styles matched the film’s emotional intensity.
Tracklist of the Soundtrack Album: 1. The Cure – "Burn" 2. Machines of Loving Grace – "Golgotha Tenement Blues" 3. Stone Temple Pilots – "Big Empty" 4. Nine Inch Nails – "Dead Souls" (cover of the Joy Division song) 5. Rage Against the Machine – "Darkness" 6. Violent Femmes – "Color Me Once" 7. Rollins Band – "Ghostrider" 8. Helmet – "Milktoast" 9. Pantera – "The Badge" 10. For Love Not Lisa – "Slip Slide Melting" 11. My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult – "After the Flesh" 12. The Jesus and Mary Chain – "Snakedriver" 13. Medicine – "Time Baby III" 14. Jane Siberry – "It Can’t Rain All the Time"
Each song helped to enhance the emotional gravity of the film, whether through the haunting melodies of The Cure or the raw aggression of Nine Inch Nails. The music became an essential part of *The Crow*’s legacy, with the soundtrack achieving critical and commercial success on its own.
Critical and Box Office Success Despite the tragedy surrounding its production, *The Crow* was released to both critical and commercial success. It earned widespread praise for its dark, gothic aesthetic, Lee’s performance, and its innovative use of music. Many critics hailed it as a fresh take on the revenge thriller genre, and it quickly became a cult favorite. The film grossed over $94 million worldwide against a $23 million budget, making it a financial success. Critics commended the film for its stylistic flair, emotional depth, and action sequences, as well as its exploration of themes like love, loss, and vengeance. Brandon Lee’s death was often mentioned in reviews, with many noting the tragic irony that the film, which dealt so heavily with death and resurrection, would be his final performance.
The first; the best *The Crow* remains a deeply influential film, remembered not only for its groundbreaking visual style and soundtrack but also for the legacy of Brandon Lee. His portrayal of Eric Draven, coupled with the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, cemented the film’s place in cinematic history. The movie’s blend of gothic atmosphere, gritty action, and emotional storytelling, paired with its iconic soundtrack, has made it a timeless classic. Nearly three decades after its release, *The Crow* continues to resonate with audiences, a testament to the power of its storytelling and the enduring impact of Brandon Lee’s final, unforgettable performance.
The Crow without Brandon: City of Angels
The Crow: City of Angels is the 1996 sequel to the cult classic 1994 film, *The Crow*, a dark and moody revenge tale based on the graphic novel by James O'Barr. *City of Angels* attempted to capitalize on the original’s success, but it faced significant challenges, particularly following the tragic death of Brandon Lee, who starred in the first film. Directed by Tim Pope and written by David S. Goyer, *City of Angels* presents a new Crow and a new vengeance story, but despite its ambitions, it was met with a lukewarm reception at both the box office and among critics.
Synopsis The story takes place in the same grim, gothic world as the original *Crow*, but this time focuses on a new protagonist, Ashe Corven (Vincent Pérez), a mechanic who is murdered along with his son, Danny, after witnessing a gangland execution. Like Eric Draven in the original film, Ashe is resurrected by a mystical crow to avenge the death of his loved one. As he embarks on his quest for vengeance, Ashe is guided by Sarah (Mia Kirshner), a character who connects the two films, as she was a young girl in the first movie and is now grown up. Together, they navigate the dangerous underworld of Los Angeles, eventually facing off against Judah Earl (Richard Brooks), a crime lord who seeks to capture the Crow’s supernatural power for himself.
The Death of Brandon Lee and Casting a New Lead Brandon Lee’s tragic on-set death during the filming of *The Crow* cast a long shadow over the sequel. Lee had portrayed Eric Draven in the first film and his performance, combined with the movie’s gothic tone and themes of loss and revenge, elevated *The Crow* into a cult classic. However, his accidental death during filming left a deep emotional impact on the production team, the audience, and future plans for the franchise. With *The Crow: City of Angels*, the filmmakers were forced to create a new protagonist to avoid direct comparisons with Lee’s iconic portrayal. Vincent Pérez, a French actor, was cast as Ashe Corven, taking on the difficult task of leading the film. His performance aimed to bring a different energy to the role, though many felt his character and the overall plot failed to capture the same magic as the original film.
Main Characters and Actors
- **Ashe Corven** – Vincent Pérez Ashe is the film's central character, a mechanic brought back from the dead to avenge the murder of his son and himself.
- **Sarah** – Mia Kirshner The only returning character from the first movie, Sarah is now an adult and acts as Ashe’s guide in his new life, helping him navigate his quest for revenge. - **Judah Earl** – Richard Brooks The main antagonist, Judah is a crime lord who seeks to steal the Crow’s power, making him a formidable opponent for Ashe. - **Sybill** – Tracey Ellis A fortune teller and Judah’s lover, she has a strong connection to the supernatural world and plays a key role in the plot. - **Kali** – Thuy Trang One of Judah’s henchmen, she is responsible for Danny’s murder, making her a central figure in Ashe’s vengeance. - **Curve** – Iggy Pop A key member of Judah's gang, his distinctive appearance and chaotic energy make him one of the more memorable characters in the film.
Production, Visual, and Music Style *The Crow: City of Angels* was directed by Tim Pope, a British filmmaker best known for his work on music videos, particularly for The Cure. Pope’s music video background heavily influenced the visual style of *City of Angels*, giving the film a gritty, hyper-stylized look. The movie embraced an exaggerated, gothic version of Los Angeles, steeped in fog, neon lights, and shadows. The cinematography, by Jean-Yves Escoffier, leaned heavily into this dark aesthetic, capturing a nightmarish cityscape that mirrors Ashe’s psychological torment.
The tone of *City of Angels* aimed to recapture the dark, brooding nature of the original, but with an even heavier emphasis on the gothic noir aesthetic. The film’s color palette was dominated by muted, desaturated hues, primarily focusing on blacks, golds, and greys, making the scenes feel like they were taking place in a shadowy, dystopian version of L.A. The musical style of the film was another important element, just as it had been in the first film. Graeme Revell returned to score the sequel, delivering a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that complemented the film’s dark visual style.
Soundtrack and Songs The soundtrack for *The Crow: City of Angels* was a significant part of the movie’s identity. Like the original, it featured a mix of alternative, industrial, and rock music from popular bands of the time, aiming to appeal to the film’s target audience of goth and alternative music fans. The soundtrack album includes:
1. **Hole** – "Gold Dust Woman" 2. **White Zombie** – "I'm Your Boogieman" 3. **Korn** – "Sean Olson" 4. **Deftones** – "Teething" 5. **Bush** – "In a Lonely Place" 6. **Iggy Pop** – "I Wanna Be Your Dog" (Live) 7. **Filter** – "Jurassitol" 8. **Seven Mary Three** – "Shelf Life" 9. **Toadies** – "Paper Dress" 10. **PJ Harvey** – "Naked Cousin" 11. **Rage Against the Machine** – "No Shelter" 12. **Poe** – "Today" 13. **The Jesus and Mary Chain** – "Spiderbaby (Redux)"
In the film, these songs played a critical role in establishing the atmosphere of the movie, with aggressive, melancholic, and rebellious tones.
Big shoes to fill: Critical and Box Office Reception *The Crow: City of Angels* did not perform as well as its predecessor, either critically or commercially. The film was panned by many critics, with complaints often focusing on its convoluted plot, thin character development, and the absence of the emotional weight that the first movie carried due to Brandon Lee’s death. Fans of the original were also disappointed by the decision to change much of the original plot and style in favor of a more stylized, music-video-like approach. Despite these issues, the film still made an impression visually and musically, though it was not enough to overcome its shortcomings. At the box office, *City of Angels* earned around $17 million domestically, significantly lower than *The Crow*'s $50 million haul. This performance, combined with the negative critical response, ensured that the film did not have the lasting impact or legacy of the original. In conclusion, while *The Crow: City of Angels* had the ambition of continuing the franchise and expanding its dark, gothic universe, it struggled to live up to the expectations set by the first film. The death of Brandon Lee haunted the production, and despite Vincent Pérez’s best efforts, the film failed to capture the same raw emotional power. However, its soundtrack, visual style, and atmosphere still hold a certain appeal for fans of alternative and gothic cinema.
The Crow: Salvation
Synopsis *The Crow: Salvation* (2000) is the third installment in *The Crow* film franchise, based on the comic book series created by James O’Barr. The movie tells the story of Alex Corvis (played by Eric Mabius), a young man wrongly convicted and executed for the murder of his girlfriend, Lauren Randall (Jodi Lyn O'Keefe). After his death by electric chair, Alex is resurrected by a mystical crow, giving him supernatural powers and the chance to avenge his wrongful death and find the real murderer. Guided by the crow, Alex discovers a web of corruption involving the police force, led by the corrupt police chief Madden (Fred Ward) and other high-ranking officials. Along the way, Alex teams up with Lauren’s sister, Erin Randall (Kirsten Dunst), to uncover the conspiracy and bring those responsible for his and Lauren’s deaths to justice.
Rob Zombie's Involvement Rob Zombie, the iconic heavy metal musician and filmmaker, was initially set to direct *The Crow: Salvation*. He was also developing a script that would have taken the franchise in a more extreme, horror-based direction, differing significantly from the previous installments. However, due to creative differences with the production studio, Zombie's vision was never realized. He was eventually replaced by Bharat Nalluri as the director. While Zombie's direct involvement with *The Crow: Salvation* ended prematurely, his name remains attached to the history of the franchise, marking a missed opportunity for a potentially darker, edgier iteration of the story.
Main Characters and Cast - **Alex Corvis/The Crow** – *Eric Mabius*: The protagonist, wrongly executed and resurrected to seek revenge.
- **Erin Randall** – *Kirsten Dunst*: Lauren’s younger sister, who aids Alex in uncovering the truth. - **Lauren Randall** – *Jodi Lyn O’Keefe*: Alex’s girlfriend and the murder victim whose death sets the events of the story in motion. - **Detective Madden** – *Fred Ward*: The corrupt police chief involved in the murder cover-up. - **Detective Peter Walsh** – *William Atherton*: A police detective who becomes suspicious of the cover-up and begins to question the official version of events. - **Nathan Randall** – *Grant Shaud*: Lauren and Erin's father, who initially believes Alex is guilty.
Production, Visual and Music Style
*The Crow: Salvation* was directed by Bharat Nalluri and released directly to video, marking a significant departure from the cinematic release of the first two films. The film had a smaller budget and was produced under a different aesthetic from the original *The Crow* (1994) and its sequel, *The Crow: City of Angels* (1996). While the previous films heavily featured Gothic visual elements and gritty, urban backdrops, *Salvation* opted for a more subdued, noir-influenced look. The tone is generally darker but with fewer supernatural elements than the first movie.
Visually, *Salvation* is known for its focus on contrasts—light and dark, life and death. The film was shot in desaturated tones, giving it a somber, bleak look, reflecting Alex's feelings of despair and revenge. The film’s action sequences are stylised but less exaggerated than those of its predecessors, emphasising a rawer, more grounded feel.
Music and Soundtrack Music has always been a central component of *The Crow* franchise, and *Salvation* is no exception. The film’s soundtrack blends hard rock, industrial, and alternative music to complement the dark, brooding atmosphere. The musical style is much in line with the alternative rock and metal scene of the late 1990s and early 2000s. - **Filter** – "The Best Things" - **Kid Rock** – "Warm Machine" - **Static-X** – "Cold" - **Hole** – "Be a Man" - **Stabbing Westward** – "Waking Up Beside You" - **The Crystal Method** – "Name of the Game" - **The Infidels** – "Bad Brother" - **The Flys** – "What You Want" - **Pitchshifter** – "Everything Sucks (Again)" - **Days of the New** – "Hang On to This" - **Danzig** – "Underbelly of the Beast" - **Monster Magnet** – "Heads Explode" - **Tricky** – "Anti-Hero"
This eclectic mix of artists, ranging from metal to electronica and alternative rock, was aimed at younger audiences, much like the earlier *Crow* films, which used music to underscore their dark, revenge-driven narratives.
You know it’s bad when it’s straight to video:
Critical Reception and Commercial Success *The Crow: Salvation* faced a difficult reception both critically and commercially. Released straight to video in the U.S. and with a limited theatrical release in some international markets, the movie did not enjoy the success of the original *Crow* film. Critics generally regarded the film as inferior to its predecessors, with some praising Mabius’s performance but criticizing the screenplay, pacing, and production values. The film has a reputation for feeling formulaic and lacking the emotional depth and dark mystique that made the original *Crow* so impactful. Fans of the franchise were divided, with some appreciating its attempt to continue the story of resurrection and revenge, while others felt it strayed too far from the atmospheric style of the original. Despite this, *Salvation* has developed a small cult following over time, particularly among fans of Kirsten Dunst and Eric Mabius. The soundtrack, in particular, has been a lasting element of the film’s legacy, praised for capturing the era's musical energy. However, in the broader context of *The Crow* franchise, *Salvation* is often viewed as a less successful attempt to keep the series alive, as its direct-to-video status limited its reach and impact.
*The Crow: Salvation* stands as a curious chapter in *The Crow* franchise. Its darker tone, smaller budget, and divergence from the original's successful formula make it a polarizing entry. While Rob Zombie's potential involvement hinted at a more radical reimagining, the final product fell short of expectations. Despite a talented cast and a soundtrack that resonated with the music trends of the time, the film struggled to achieve the critical or commercial success that its predecessors did, though it still retains a modest cult status.
Mmm, milking it now. The Crow: Wicked Prayer
The fourth and final film in *The Crow* series, released in 2005 and directed by Lance Mungia. The film is loosely based on the novel *Wicked Prayer* by Norman Partridge and serves as a continuation of the dark, supernatural themes established by the original 1994 film, *The Crow*, and its sequels. However, this instalment deviates from the urban gothic atmosphere of the earlier films by setting the story in a desolate desert town, giving it a fresh but uneven approach. Despite this effort to revitalise the franchise, *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* was met with overwhelmingly negative reviews and is widely regarded as a commercial and critical failure.
Synopsis The story follows Jimmy Cuervo (played by Edward Furlong), a troubled ex-convict who lives in a small, poverty-stricken town in the Southwestern United States. He is trying to start a new life with his girlfriend, Lily (Emmanuelle Chriqui), but his life is shattered when a group of satanic bikers, led by Luc Crash (David Boreanaz) and his lover Lola Byrne (Tara Reid), brutally murder both Jimmy and Lily. This gang has sinister plans to perform a ritual that will turn Luc into an immortal demonic figure, akin to the Antichrist, by taking the souls of their victims. Jimmy is resurrected by the mystical Crow to seek vengeance on those who killed him and Lily. With supernatural powers granted by the Crow, he embarks on a violent quest to stop Luc’s rise to power and to bring justice to the murderers. The film blends elements of revenge, mysticism, and a biblical apocalyptic tone, but struggles to reach the emotional depth of the original.
A sequel to the sequel: Connection to *The Crow: City of Angels* (1996) While *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* is not a direct sequel to *The Crow: City of Angels*, it continues the series' overarching theme of resurrection and vengeance. Both films revolve around a protagonist who is brought back from the dead by the mystical Crow to seek justice for the wrongs done to them. *The Crow: City of Angels* was more directly connected to the original 1994 film, featuring a similar urban gothic atmosphere, while *Wicked Prayer* attempts to break away by changing the setting and tone. However, both films share a similar structure in their narratives, focusing on a resurrected hero driven by vengeance. Unfortunately, like *City of Angels*, *Wicked Prayer* also failed to capture the magic of the original film.
Main Characters and Actors - **Jimmy Cuervo/The Crow** (Edward Furlong): The main protagonist who is resurrected by the Crow to avenge his and Lily’s murder.
- **Luc Crash** (David Boreanaz): The leader of a satanic gang who wants to become an immortal demon. - **Lola Byrne** (Tara Reid): Luc’s psychotic girlfriend and partner in crime, who assists him in the satanic ritual. - **Lily Ignites the Dawn** (Emmanuelle Chriqui): Jimmy’s girlfriend, who is also murdered by Luc and Lola. Her death is the driving force behind Jimmy’s quest for revenge. - **El Niño** (Dennis Hopper): A priest and crime boss who aids Luc and Lola in their demonic quest.
- **Harold** (Danny Trejo): Jimmy's former mentor and a spiritual figure in the town who helps guide him.
Production The production of *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* was plagued by budgetary constraints and creative difficulties. With a much smaller budget than its predecessors, the film was shot in New Mexico, primarily in barren desert landscapes and small towns. This shift from the dark, rain-soaked urban environments that characterized the earlier films to a sun-drenched desert town was an attempt to reinvent the visual style of the series. However, the limited resources were evident in the film’s overall quality, as many critics pointed out poor production values, uneven special effects, and subpar cinematography. The performances of the cast, particularly Edward Furlong as the Crow, were criticised as lackluster, with some actors seemingly miscast for their roles.
Loosing the original feel: Visual and Music Style Visually, *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* tries to blend the gothic aesthetic of the earlier films with a southwestern, apocalyptic feel. The result is a combination of religious symbolism, satanic rituals, and biker gang aesthetics, but these elements often come off as disjointed rather than cohesive. The film’s direction lacks the atmospheric tension and brooding mood that made the original *Crow* film such a cult favorite. The music style, while attempting to echo the industrial rock and gothic soundtracks of previous *Crow* films, also falls short. Instead of using an eclectic mix of grunge, alternative, and industrial music, *Wicked Prayer* shifts towards a more subdued and less impactful score.
Music sucked too. Soundtrack Album and Songs in the Film The official soundtrack for *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* was not as memorable or influential as the soundtracks for the previous films in the series. While the original *The Crow* (1994) had a highly acclaimed soundtrack featuring bands like The Cure, Nine Inch Nails, and Stone Temple Pilots, *Wicked Prayer* lacks such a defining musical identity. Some of the key tracks from the film's soundtrack include: 1. **"An American Prayer"** by Morrison/Pacifica 2. **"This Is My Time"** by Three Days Grace 3. **"When I’m Gone"** by Pillar 4. **"Wherever You Will Go"** by The Calling (acoustic version) 5. **"Falling"** by Seether These songs attempt to complement the film’s darker tone, but they never quite achieve the same emotional resonance that the music from earlier instalments in the series did.
Yup. Straight to DVD. It sucked. Critical and Box Office Success *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* was released straight to DVD in 2005, bypassing a theatrical release, which already indicated low expectations for the film. Critically, the film was panned for its disjointed plot, weak performances, and poor production values. Many reviewers singled out the film’s lackluster special effects and direction as its biggest weaknesses, with some even labeling it as the worst entry in *The Crow* franchise. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an abysmal approval rating, and its fan reception is similarly negative. The casting choices, particularly Edward Furlong as Jimmy Cuervo, were seen as misguided, with many critics feeling that he did not embody the intensity or physicality necessary for the role of the Crow. From a box office perspective, there was no theatrical release to gauge its financial success, but its home video sales were lackluster. The franchise, which began as a cult phenomenon with the original film, had by this point lost much of its relevance and appeal. *The Crow: Wicked Prayer* was an attempt to continue the legacy of *The Crow* franchise, but its lack of a cohesive vision and poor execution ultimately led to its failure. Despite its efforts to explore new settings and themes, the film failed to capture the emotional depth, gothic atmosphere, and cultural impact that made the original 1994 film so iconic. Both critically and commercially, *Wicked Prayer* marked the end of a franchise that had, by that point, lost much of its original magic.
They had to remake it didn’t they?! Oh dear never mind.
The Crow (2024 Remake) The 2024 remake of *The Crow*, directed by Rupert Sanders, aims to bring a fresh yet reverent take on the 1994 cult classic film, originally directed by Alex Proyas. Based on James O'Barr's iconic comic book, the new adaptation seeks to modernise the gothic tale while remaining true to the tragic beauty and emotional depth of the original.
A film of two halves: Synopsis The story revolves around Eric Draven, a musician brutally murdered along with his fiancée, Shelly, by a gang of violent criminals. One year later, Eric is mysteriously resurrected by a supernatural crow to exact vengeance on those who took his life and love. Fueled by rage and sorrow, he embarks on a quest to kill those responsible, guided by the crow that symbolizes his connection to the afterlife. While seeking justice, Eric struggles with his humanity and the pain of his tragic loss.
Recapturing the Style and Feel of the Original. Spoiler alert they didn’t The 1994 version of *The Crow* became a cult classic, partly due to its dark, brooding atmosphere and Brandon Lee's iconic portrayal of Eric Draven. The 2024 remake tried to maintain this gothic aesthetic while modernizing the setting and improving the special effects. Director Rupert Sanders brought a more stylized vision to the film, but his respect for the original's tone is evident. The urban decay, rain-soaked streets, and gritty alleyways that defined the original are back, with updated cinematography that plays with lighting and shadow to enhance the eerie, melancholic vibe.
The remake doesn't shy away from embracing the same emotional core that made the original so resonant. The exploration of grief, loss, and revenge is heightened by the film’s dark, poetic tone. The remake’s screenplay aimed to maintain the philosophical questions that haunt Eric’s journey—whether vengeance truly brings peace or if it only deepens the wounds of loss.
Main Characters and Cast - **Eric Draven** – Played by Bill Skarsgård, who brings his haunting intensity to the role, offering a new take on the tragic antihero. Skarsgård’s portrayal is more introspective, conveying both the rage and despair of the character.
- **Shelly Webster** – Played by singer/actress FKA Twigs, Shelly’s role in this remake is slightly expanded, with flashbacks giving more context to her relationship with Eric.
- **Top Dollar** – Played by Danny Huston, who takes on the main villain role. In this version, Top Dollar is less flamboyant but equally menacing, portrayed as a cold-blooded crime boss. - **Sergeant Albrecht** – Played by Eiza González, Albrecht is reimagined as a tough, seasoned cop who becomes entangled in Eric's path of vengeance. - **T-Bird** – Played by Laurence R. Harvey, the gang leader who orchestrated the murder of Eric and Shelly. Production, Visual and Music Style The production design of *The Crow* (2024) leans into the stylized, neo-noir aesthetic that made the original so memorable. However, with modern technology at their disposal, the filmmakers opted for sleek visuals that feel more refined while maintaining the gothic horror atmosphere. Heavy use of CGI enhances the supernatural elements, particularly in scenes where the crow aids Eric or when he experiences visions. The color palette sticks to moody, dark tones—blacks, grays, and deep blues—juxtaposed with the vivid red of Eric's blood, symbolizing both life and revenge. Visually, the movie employs a blend of close, intimate shots and sweeping cityscape views, emphasizing the isolation Eric feels while keeping viewers grounded in the urban, dystopian world he inhabits. The frequent rain, lightning, and smoke-filled backdrops are reminiscent of classic noir films but feel more polished and dramatic in this remake.
The soundtrack plays a crucial role in the film, as it did in the 1994 version. The music for *The Crow* (2024) was scored by Atticus Ross and Trent Reznor, whose industrial, haunting soundscapes blend perfectly with the film’s tone. Their score mixes dark electronic beats with orchestral strings to evoke the gothic and tragic elements of the story. Additionally, modern artists were recruited to recreate the same alternative and grunge rock vibes that the original soundtrack embodied.
Debussy – Des Pas Sur La Neige Joy Division – Disorder The Bug Ft. Inga Copeland – Fall Traitrs – Thin Flesh Phil Kieran and Aaron Thomas – The Killer Gary Numan – M.E. The Veils – Total Depravity Enya – Boadicea Cascadeur – Meaning Foals – What Went Down
How the Remake Differs from the Original One of the main differences between the remake and the original is the expanded backstory for Shelly. While she remained largely in the background of the 1994 film, in this version, flashbacks give her more of a presence. These scenes delve deeper into her and Eric's relationship, making her loss even more emotionally impactful. Another significant difference is in the portrayal of Eric Draven. Brandon Lee's performance was more outwardly emotional and tortured, while Bill Skarsgård’s version of Eric is more brooding and contemplative, internalizing his pain. The villains, particularly Top Dollar, are given more complex motivations in the remake, making them more than one-dimensional adversaries. The action sequences in the 2024 version are more stylized and choreographed with modern sensibilities in mind. Eric's supernatural abilities are also explored more deeply, with a stronger emphasis on his link with the crow, giving the character a more overtly mystical edge.
At least the music is pretty good: Soundtrack Album and Movie Songs The original *Crow* soundtrack was iconic for its alternative rock and grunge influences. The 2024 remake aimed to mirror this by curating a similarly dark and atmospheric collection of songs, featuring a blend of contemporary artists and covers of some original tracks.
1. **Nine Inch Nails** – *Hurt (Reimagined)* 2. **FKA Twigs** – *Home With You* 3. **Deftones** – *Ceremony* 4. **Chelsea Wolfe** – *Feral Love* 5. **Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross** – *Dark City* (Original Score) 6. **Ghostemane** – *Hell Is Empty* 7. **The Cure** – *Burn* (Remastered) 8. **Bring Me the Horizon** – *Parasite Eve* 9. **Alice in Chains** – *Them Bones (Re-recorded)* 10. **Yves Tumor** – *Gospel for a New Century* 11. **Health** – *Slaves of Fear* 12. *Poppy** – *Scary Mask* The soundtrack blends the heavy, emotional weight of alternative rock with industrial, electronic influences, creating a sonic landscape that mirrors the film's dark atmosphere.
Huge shoes to fill! Critical and Box Office Success *The Crow* (2024) faced high expectations, given the legacy of the original film. Upon its release, the movie garnered mixed to positive reviews from critics. Many praised Bill Skarsgård’s performance, considering it a fitting tribute to Brandon Lee while standing on its own merit. The visual direction and the score by Reznor and Ross were highlighted as the film’s strongest elements, maintaining the gothic atmosphere of the original. However, some critics felt that while the movie was visually stunning, it struggled to differentiate itself enough from the 1994 version, leading to some comparisons that didn’t always favor the remake. In terms of box office success, the film opened strongly, particularly due to the nostalgia factor and the cult following of the original. It performed well internationally and was especially successful among younger audiences unfamiliar with the 1994 version. Though not a blockbuster hit, *The Crow* (2024) earned respectable numbers and did well enough to open discussions about potential sequels or spin-offs. *The Crow* (2024) serves as a respectful homage to the 1994 cult classic while attempting to modernize the narrative for a new generation. With strong performances, particularly by Bill Skarsgård, and stunning visuals, it captures the gothic tragedy that defines the story of Eric Draven. Despite some criticism regarding its faithfulness to the original, the remake successfully stands on its own and revives the haunting tale of love, vengeance, and loss for modern audiences.
So there ya go. All the Crow movies. None captured the look, darkness and outstanding acting as the first one but at least the franchise was kept alive. The Crow remains essentially viewing for any Self respecting goth or emo fan and the music from the movies are dark, brilliant slices of goth rock and metal. If you haven’t seen these movies SEE Them!
