Aaron Taylor-Johnson is having a moment. While Kraven the Hunter bombed at the box office, it's finding new life on streaming platforms like Prime Video. The film, which only managed to gross $62 million worldwide against a hefty $110-130 million budget, was critically panned, earning a dismal 15% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes.
However, audiences seem to be more forgiving, giving it a 72% audience score. Some are even calling it a "so bad it's good" movie, perfect for a casual viewing. A significant factor driving this renewed interest is Aaron Taylor-Johnson himself. His performance, one of the few praised aspects of Kraven, is now drawing viewers after his appearance in the critically acclaimed 28 Years Later.
28 Years Later is also in the news, but for a different reason. A YouTube video by Corridor Crew, featuring VFX artists, has highlighted some visual effects mistakes in the film. The artists pointed out issues with a scene involving a herd of deer, noting that the animation appeared floaty and the shadows were too thick. Despite these criticisms, the artists acknowledged the difficulty of creating such a scene and praised the overall effort of the VFX team.
The resurgence of superhero movies, fueled by recent hits, is also benefiting Kraven. Unlike other Sony Spider-Man Universe entries like Madame Web, Kraven tells a mostly self-contained story about a father and son, focusing on brutal fights and family dynamics. This self-contained narrative has resonated with viewers, offering a refreshing alternative to convoluted cinematic universes.
Why the Sudden Interest?
- Aaron Taylor-Johnson's Rising Star: His role in 28 Years Later has boosted his profile.
- Superhero Resurgence: Renewed interest in the genre is lifting underperforming films.
- Self-Contained Story: Kraven avoids the pitfalls of interconnected universes.
VFX Hiccups in 28 Years Later
While praised overall, 28 Years Later isn't without its flaws. The Corridor Crew's video highlights specific visual effects issues, sparking discussion about the challenges of modern filmmaking. Despite these minor flaws, the film remains a critical success and a testament to the skills of the VFX team.