This version of Beowulf & Grendel doesn't stay true to the epic poem, if you want that version see the animated feature. This version instead try's to de-construct the poem into a realistic mainly non fantastical movie. There are no real villains in this film. just people trying to conquer their fear and ignorance. Grendel is depicted as the last of his race. A sad ,confused and ultimately wronged creature out for revenge but also capable of pathos and even shows signs of a sly sense of humour. The cinematography is absolutely astounding the use of natural light really adds another dimension to this film. I would have to say it is the most beautifully shot film of the last 20 years.As for the acting Gerard Butler gives another excellent performance as the world wiry Beowulf as dose Stellan Skarsgård as the king trying to come to term with his past and conscious. Only the slightly miss cast Sarah Polley lets the acting stakes down a little. Her character seems somewhat out of place in this film. but this is only a small gripe. I would recommend this version of Beowulf & Grendel to those who like their historical films to have a more realistic edge.

I really don't understand the negative comments on this wonderful film. Costumes, location, dialogue, performances, all totally excellent. It was a revelation seeing the incredible Icelandic landscapes alone! The music score was great, prefect in its moody richness. And I've become a huge Gerard Butler fan from watching this film; lord, the man suffered for this film, as did everyone on this shoot. Another very cool thing about this movie is that even though I've never heard before anyone try to convey how a Neanderthal might speak, this movie made me feel that now I have. And it was so weird and strange... perfect. These people-- the director, writer, actors and crew, of "Beowulf and Grendel"-- have given us a glimpse of Dark Ages Scandinavian life, more I think than any movie has ever done before. I thought the movie was just magic. An amazing movie, shot under incredibly difficult conditions. Watch the documentary about the making of "Beowulf and Grendel" called "Wrath of Gods" to really understand just how wonderful this movie is. I never get tired of watching both "Wrath of Gods" and "Beowulf and Grendel". Give them both a try!

Warning: spoilers ahead.Grendel was not a mumbling retard. He had no father. Beowulf did not have doubts. Grendels mother was a monster, killed by Beowulf.Besides, there was no "witch" in the poem. Yet here she is, being the clever one, telling everyone what is right and wrong.And where did that monk come from? And how come early Christians are always portrayed as frothing lunatics and hypocrites? This movie was NOT Beowulf, this was just another stinking pile of Hollywood revisionist relativist dung.Hey Hollywood, when you a-holes are done throwing crap at one of the oldest and most important works in Anglo-Saxon literature, let us know. We would like to see a movie that was actually based on the poem. I won't hold my breath though.1 star because there's no 0-star option.

although notable for setting choice, that hardly made up for the shocking lack of talent or viable script material. Gerard Butler, although a proved actor (and hottie), could have done much better than to star in this terrible film because frankly anyone can grunt. Furthermore, I was so disgusted by the description of rabbit bestiality during the dinner sequence I didn't think it could be topped. I actually threw popcorn at the screen. That was until of course the troll/witch rape scene in which a young outcast woman is violated and appears to enjoy it. the lack of music was shocking. the lack of meaningful dialogue was shocking, and quite honestly the content was shocking as well. had the writer stuck to the original story of Beowulf the audience might have had even a faint storyline to follow and the movie a fighting chance.