“The Crow” (1994) is a film that continues to fascinate and intrigue cinema fans almost three decades after its release. Directed by Alex Proyas and based on the eponymous comic book series created by James O’Barr, the film blends elements of suspense, fantasy, and action into a dark and compelling plot. The story revolves around Eric Draven, a musician who returns from beyond to avenge the brutal murder of his fiancée and himself.

The film is notable not only for its captivating narrative and unique visual style but also for the tragic death of its lead actor, Brandon Lee, in an on-set accident. This dark event and its consequences add a layer of mystery and legend to the production. In this text, we will explore the curiosities and intriguing details that make “The Crow” an iconic work of 90s cinema.

1 – THE CREATOR OF THE CHARACTER DIDN’T WANT IT ADAPTED FOR THE CINEMA

James O’Barr, the creator of the original work, initially reacted poorly to proposals to adapt his most famous creation. O’Barr wrote the story as a way to cope with the grief of losing his fiancée, who died after being hit by a drunk driver, making the project deeply personal for him. When studio executives approached O’Barr, their initial idea was to turn the comic into a musical starring Michael Jackson, which made O’Barr laugh at the proposal.

It was only after the rejection of this idea and the confirmation of Alex Proyas as director that O’Barr began to feel more confident.

Initially, O’Barr was also not convinced by the choice of Brandon Lee for the role of Eric Draven. He believed the choice should be between Johnny Depp, Christian Slater, or River Phoenix, and feared the film might turn into a kung fu production, especially with the initial idea of the musical. However, when he saw Lee dressed as the Crow in the studio, O’Barr became excited.

The two became good friends, and with the money he earned from the film, O’Barr bought a car for his mother, a sound system for himself, and donated the rest, feeling that the money was tainted by Brandon Lee’s blood.

2 – BRANDON LEE FELT UNCOMFORTABLE WITH THE MAKEUP

When Brandon Lee first saw himself with the Crow makeup, he felt quite uncomfortable. After some discussions with director Alex Proyas, they decided that Lee would apply the makeup the day before filming, sleep with it on, and thus start shooting with a less perfect and more worn-out look, as if the character had no time for impeccable makeup while seeking revenge.

O’Barr’s inspiration for the Crow comic came from major rock’n’roll icons, which led the studio to consider hiring a real musician for the role of Eric Draven. There were even suggestions that the character’s look should be based on the bands Kiss and Alice Cooper’s face paint. However, O’Barr revealed that the Crow’s makeup was actually inspired by a puppet he saw in a store window.

3 – MEMORABLE SOUNDTRACK

With rock’n’roll influences, the film is noted for having one of the most memorable soundtracks ever assembled for a feature film, perfectly harmonizing with the movie’s cinematography.

The song “Burn” by The Cure became a symbol of the film, making it impossible to hear it without recalling the production. In addition to this iconic track, the film’s soundtrack also features other great songs, such as “Big Empty” by Stone Temple Pilots, “Color Me Once” by Violent Femmes, “Dead Souls” by Nine Inch Nails, “Darkness” by Rage Against the Machine, and “Snakedriver” by The Jesus & Mary Chain, among many others. It’s truly an impressive soundtrack!

4 – MULTIPLE ACCIDENTS

The Crow was forever marked by the tragic accident that resulted in Brandon Lee’s death. The son of kung fu legend Bruce Lee, Brandon was a promising star. The shot that caused the accident was accidentally fired by Michael Massee, who played the character Funboy. An error in the checking of the weapon used in the scene caused it to fire and hit Lee.

This incident was just one of several accidents that occurred during filming: a carpenter nearly pierced his hand with a screwdriver, a stuntman fell from the roof, a dismissed crew member drove his car into the studio, injuries were caused by a crane hitting power lines, and even a storm destroyed parts of the set.

Initially, the film was on the verge of being canceled. Paramount even halted it, but the Entertainment Media Investment Corporation, created specifically to acquire the project, managed to turn the situation around. Proyas and Eliza Hutton, Lee’s fiancée, believed the film should be completed and released.

To finish the production, body doubles, special effects, lighting tricks, and other techniques were used. The writers were also brought in to adjust dialogues and scenes. The voice-over narration, performed by the writers themselves, helped fill in the gaps left by the missing scenes.

Although it was determined that the accident was indeed an accident and Massee was not held responsible for Lee’s death, the actor became reclusive in relation to roles in the industry afterward. He returned to filming sets a year later with a small role in Seven: The Seven Deadly Sins and has since worked mainly in TV series, notably in 24.

5 – BUDGET AND BOX OFFICE

The film cost just $6 million and grossed $94 million worldwide, becoming a major success and a 90s classic.

“The Crow” is a film that, even decades after its release, remains a cultural icon, not only for its fascinating plot and unique visual style but also for the tragedy that marked its production. The combination of an unforgettable soundtrack with a dark and profound narrative, along with the impact of Brandon Lee’s loss, gives the film an aura of mystery and reverence.

The project became a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity, with the completion of the film serving as a tribute to Lee’s memory and the creative vision of its makers. Additionally, the film stands as a testament to the enduring influence of rock’n’roll on pop culture and cinema.

In summary, “The Crow” is not only a 90s classic but also a work filled with emotions and behind-the-scenes stories that continue to captivate and inspire.