Beowulf uses “photorealistic animation,” a technique that successfully impresses real, living human beings, but isn’t perfect. Movements appear choppy and stilted and eyes have a glossed over, almost dead look to them that calls attention to their synthetic design. But over all, the animation works. While the visuals still retain enough comic element to accommodate the fantastic and supernatural elements of the story, the characters are presented in a more serious manner than average animation.

        The plot of Beowulf remains true with some diversions, particularly in the story of Grendel’s mother (Angelina Jolie). Instead of serving as another monster for Beowulf to defeat, Grendel’s mother seduces Beowulf and through a lifelong curse, brings about his demise. This addition makes Beowulf’s previously ambiguous, though present, qualities of selfishness and egoism more apparent than they are in the poem. Characterization is not lost; it simply develops under different circumstances.

        Grendel is not presented as a rampaging beast (which he is often misinterpreted to be); instead he is a deformed reject, a social outcast with human characteristics. Grendel has been banished from civilized life and is tormented by the merriment of the Danes. His violence, thus, is presented as a result of his deep bitterness from exclusion, not from mindless massacring.

        The acting in Beowulf is strong. Ray Winstone portrays Beowulf’s engulfing pride that later wobbles under the weakness of his actions. He is arrogant and proud as a young man and turns solemn in his later years. Crispin Glover’s performance stands out as particularly revealing of Grendel’s true nature. Perfect for the role, Glover communicates in nonsensical screeching that occasionally resembles real words. This characterization works perfectly in reflecting the nature of Grendel’s relationship with humans. Anthony Hopkins has presence as the aging king. He is charming and fun and manages to balance this by evoking subtle tension in the conflict with his wife.

        Beowulf boasts the latest in animation techniques, creating a visually beautiful film as well as intense action sequences that keep the audience entertained. Gaiman and Avary do an excellent job of condensing the ancient poem into a blockbuster that will appeal to a wider audience while still remaining faithful to the original story.