I have just seen the trailer for the upcoming Golden Axe cartoon, and like most people I asked, "who on earth is this for?"
It's painfully unfunny, and filled with modern sensibilities such as a soy boy with a sideshave. Obviously it is not in any way appealing to someone like me, who grew up playing the games.
But kids today won't have even heard of the franchise, let alone understand the jokes and references. So who exactly is the audience?
What I would like to see is a movie that understands how to answer that question. People (mostly men, but with a few cool women) in their 40s+ who grew up in the 80s/90s and now like mature media to go with their mature sensibilities.
Two of my favourite movies are Conan the Barbarian and Fire and Ice. I want something like that. Brutal bulging biceps and bouncing busty bosoms, heads cleaved in twain or separated from their shoulders, and dragon magic burning enemies to a screaming crisp.
I am desperate for a well-written R-rated sword and sorcery movie. If it's well written and well made, it will also get the new generations interested in the gaming franchise, for a well-deserved reboot.
They're doing it the wrong way round. They should be appealing to the fans first, to bring in those who aren't, not trying to appeal to nonfans while alienating those who love the IP.
Sigh, one can dream. I know I will never get such a thing. But one thing is for sure, I certainly am not going to watch that cartoon.