“The Crow” started life as a comic series created by James O’Barr. The tragic romance has a real-life basis, as O’Barr was inspired to write the tale after his fiancee, Beverly, was killed by a drunk driver. The comic and film series differ in several crucial points; for instance, Eric and Shelly are killed outside their home in the former medium. Eric is filled with loneliness and yearns for Shelly, who remains out of reach as he seeks revenge. Only a young girl and a crow sent to guide and protect him know of his pain.
The comic series was adapted into the legendary 1994 film “The Crow,” which was completed despite the accidental death of lead star Brandon Lee. Multiple sequels were spawned from the movie’s success, namely the films “The Crow: City of Angels,” “The Crow: Salvation,” and “The Crow: Wicked Prayer” and the TV series “The Crow: Stairway to Heaven.” Only “Stairway to Heaven” follows Eric (Mark Dacascos) and Shelly (Sabine Karsenti) in another retelling of his quest for revenge; all of the sequel films feature different protagonists.
If the trailer is anything to go by, it looks like Eric’s big-screen adventures will be just as action-packed as his comic book exploits. Audiences will have to wait to see if this version of Eric Draven comes intact with his superpowers from the comics, such as a strong healing factor and high pain threshold. The summer will provide the answer, as the latest version of “The Crow” will hit movie theaters on June 7.
