Warcraft takes an unusual approach to the blockbuster spectacle. It kind of feels like the second installment of the series, skipping a lot of the typical exposition and launching straight into a story with characters barely introduced in a world we hardly know. The effect is mixed at best. The film skips over the most tedious parts of these epic fantasy stories and goes directly into the good stuff. On the other hand, there are a lot of puzzling moments where it feels like the film is trying to pay off on bonds we didn't see form during events we didn't see happen. The film mostly becomes intriguing for its potential, the world of the film at a really interesting place by the end, presenting all manner of strong narrative possibilities.
The film takes place in a world called Azeroth. Orcs have invaded the Azeroth, fleeing from their ruined homeworld, led by the powerful warlock Gul’dan (Daniel Wu). The Orcs need to capture humans to fuel the portal so that the rest of the horde may enter the world. The warrior Lothar (Travis Fimmel) is the first to get wind of the Orc attacks, and he ends up at the center of events that will change all of Azeroth. Meanwhile, among the Orcs, the chieftain Durotan (Toby Kebbell) is having doubts about Gul’dan, and he attempts to make contact with the humans, hoping to make an alliance that could save everyone.
This is an oversimplification, because the film follows of other characters. There’s Medivh (Ben Foster), the Guardian, a powerful magician sworn to protect Azeroth. There’s Khadgar (Ben Schnetzer), a young mage thrust into the middle of this magical struggle, discovering deep secrets that change everything. There’s the Orc Garona (Paula Patton), who becomes an ally of the humans and starts to develop feelings for Lothar. There’s a lot going on, and the film can’t quite handle the breadth of the narrative.
The film is character-focused, which is a good thing. There’s a heart in the midst of all these high-concept happenings, the film actually managing to craft some really affecting moments in spite of the hugeness of this tale. But it doesn’t all work. There are too many characters to follow, and so the film ends up splitting that focus. It is also a strong choice for the film to ask the audience to catch up with the story, but the story is so big that just a little bit of help might have been good in the long run.
The story they end up telling has merit, though. And it ends in a place that’s full of potential. And the visuals that bring this story to life are quite impressive. Director Duncan Jones is known for doing a lot with limited resources. Given a real budget, the director doesn’t waste the opportunity, a good mix of practical and visual effects bringing the world of the games of life. The acting is fine as well, even though the tone isn’t all the same. The standout is Ben Foster, who in spite of an extended unseen backstory, makes the journey of his character deeply felt.
Warcraft is ultimately more compelling for what it represents than what it is. The film ends at a really interesting place, with a lot more story to tell. The movie itself is kind of clumsy and strange, but oddly satisfying at times. And the stories it sets up are genuinely intriguing, making one look forward to future installments. This is not an entirely successful movie, but one wants to give it the benefit of the doubt for now, because the good that’s in there promises some great things for the future, if we get to see it.
My Rating:
