Beowulf is a 2007 American 3D animated action fantasy film directed by Robert Zemeckis. It is based on the Old English epic poem Beowulf and stars Ray Winstone, Angelina Jolie, Anthony Hopkins, and Robin Wright in motion-captured performances.
The film reimagines the epic poem, telling the story of Beowulf, a Geatish warrior who arrives in Denmark to defeat the monstrous Grendel. King Hrothgar's (Anthony Hopkins) kingdom is under siege by Grendel (Crispin Glover), a creature terrorizing the mead hall of Heorot. Beowulf (Ray Winstone) and his warriors arrive to vanquish the monster and bring peace to the land.
After a fierce battle, Beowulf defeats Grendel, earning the gratitude of Hrothgar and the admiration of Queen Wealtheow (Robin Wright). However, Grendel's vengeful mother (Angelina Jolie), a seductive and powerful water demon, emerges to avenge her son's death, leading to a confrontation with Beowulf in her lair.
The film explores themes of heroism, temptation, and the corrupting nature of power. It delves into Beowulf's inner struggles as he faces moral dilemmas and grapples with his own mortality. As Beowulf achieves fame and power as a hero, he later becomes the king of Denmark and the film portrays his reign 50 years later, when the kingdom faces a new threat in the form of a dragon. Now an old man, Beowulf confronts his own legacy and the choices he has made.
Beowulf employed motion capture technology to create realistic, lifelike characters and environments. The film's visual style and action sequences were praised for their innovation and spectacle. The film had a production budget of $150 million and grossed over $196 million worldwide. While the movie received mixed reviews, it garnered positive remarks for its visual effects and performances, while some criticisms were aimed at the script.
The movie has garnered attention for its modernization of the classic epic, blending ancient mythology with contemporary storytelling techniques. It is a visually impressive and thought-provoking adaptation of the Beowulf saga, providing a unique interpretation of the iconic hero's journey.