I confess that I have never read any of the Shadow pulps, although I do have a paperback reprint of the first story (I just haven't gotten around to reading it). I've never heard the radio show. I have read the exquisite comic book series, by Denny O'Neil and Mike Kaluta, from 1970's DC Comics. I loved those stories, with their noir elements, mood and atmosphere, and great characters. When I heard a film was being made, I couldn't wait! I bought a copy of the teaser poster, which hangs on my bedroom wall. I read the novelization, which was quite good. Imagine my surprise when I saw the movie.
Don't get me wrong, I like the film, for the most part; but, it doesn't quite work. It took a couple of viewings to figure out why. For one, there isn't enough mystery here. The Shadow was about mystery, as well as the fight against evil. Two, the tone wasn't consistent. It tries to be serious, but some parts are just too silly. Three, some of the performances are uneven. Tim Curry chews too much scenery and John Lone isn't wicked enough. Four, the "blood and thunder" of the pulps is missing. For a good cinematic example, see "The Untouchables". Finally, Russell Mulcahy is too uneven as a director. I love Higlander, but outside of some of the music videos he directed, I don't care for much of his other work.
Alec Balwin is fine as the title character, and Jonathan Winters was surprisingly good in a serious role. Peter Boyle is great. Ian McKellan is wasted and Tim Curry is too broad. John Lone isn't broad enough. Many of the other characters are forgettable. Penelope Ann Miller isn't very convincing as the capable Margo Lane.
If I were to redo this film, I would have created more of a noir atmosphere, greater use of shadows and light. I would of kept the Shadow's origin until at least the second act. I would have kept an air of mystery surrounding the story and watch it slowly reveal itself. I would have provided more "blood and thunder" in the key action scenes. And I would have hired Mike Kaluta as the conceptual artist.
Still, it beats George Pal's "Doc Savage", but can't compare to the pulp thrills of "The Mummy" or the pulp/serial adventure of Indiana Jones. It's certainly better than the old Kane Richmond and Rod Laroque movies. Maybe someday a filmmaker will capture the spirit of the old pulp magazines, but please don't let it be something like Arnold Schwarzenegger as Doc Savage!
