Reel Views: Wrath of the Titans an epic disappointment

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Wrath of the Titans (2012)

When the remake of Clash of the Titans was released in 2010 by Director Louis Leterrier, it was a worthwhile flick — a little heavy on the special effects, but otherwise a solid watch. Now, in 2012, Jonathan Liebesman takes a stab at bringing the Titans to life, only this time it feels more like they are attacking the audience rather than each other.

Wrath of the Titans follows up with the story of the god Zeus, his half-mortal son Perseus and their never-ending battle against the Titans. A full decade after defeating the Kraken, Perseus has returned to his mortal life; the quiet existence of a fisherman raising his son. One night his peaceful life is interrupted by his father, Zeus, who warns Perseus that because the devotion of the mortals to the gods is waning, the powers that hold the Titans captive are likewise failing. When Zeus is captured by his fellow gods and used for his powers of immortality, which results in the release of the Titans upon the world, Perseus has no choice but to fight back. From there an all-out battle begins between gods, men, Titans and all forms of unearthly creatures.

The cast of Wrath of the Titans is perhaps the only thing this flick has going for it. Sam Worthington, whom fans will know from his Avatar fame, once again takes the lead role as the demigod Perseus. Worthington is a great action star, though when the moment calls for a little emotion, it becomes difficult to find.

Taking on the hefty role of Zeus again is Liam Neeson, who has appeared in recent hits Taken and Batman Begins. It seems that Neeson can do no wrong, for even in a movie as over-digitized as Wrath of the Titans, he brings to the screen a certain energy.

Also making appearances in Wrath of the Titans are Ralph Fiennes as Hades, Danny Huston as Poseidon, Edgar Ramirez as Ares and Bill Nighy as Hephaestus.

The biggest problem with Wrath of the Titans is that it is presented not only in 3D, which is overwhelming enough on its own, but in select theaters on IMAX screens as well. Watching almost any movie out there in 3D on an IMAX screen is nauseating, but when you apply those technologies to an action-heavy film, it turns into a truly sickening experience. Perhaps Wrath would be better in regular 2D, or it may even be an enjoyable experience on the massive IMAX screens, but both at once makes it feel as though the film is attacking all of your senses.

If you are an absolute diehard 3D action movie fan, Wrath of the Titans may not be a bad idea for you. But if you have even a slightly weak stomach or have trouble with overwhelming digital effects, then steer clear of this overprocessed sequel.

Rating: 1 out of 5