The Crow (1994)

The bad guys in The Crow have names like T-Bird and Funboy, and they act exactly like those names. The plot is a revenge list, crossed off one gang member at a time, with zero surprises. The look is what made it a legend. Alex Proyas builds a Detroit of rooftops, rain and neon, like a comic book drawn in the dark, and every frame could be an album cover. Brandon Lee is magnetic as Eric, playful and grieving in the same breath. He died in an accident during the production, and it’s impossible to watch his performance now without feeling that loss. Ernie Hudson gives Sergeant Albrecht a tired decency that steadies every scene he’s in. Michael Wincott plays Top Dollar with a voice like gravel wrapped in velvet. It made $50.8 million worldwide on a reported $23M. A 7.7 because the style and the lead performance are unforgettable and the story is paper thin. $913.15 says the next crow you see on a power line gets a long, respectful look from you.

What works: Alex Proyas turns a rain-soaked Detroit into a gothic comic book, and Brandon Lee gives Eric a mix of mischief and grief that’s hard to shake.

What doesn’t: The gang members are one-note cartoons with goofy names, so the revenge plot plays like a checklist instead of a story with real surprises.

Who it’s for: Grown-ups who love moody 90s comic book movies with great soundtracks and a lot of rain.