Review: Jared Leto Plays his Best Vampire in ‘Morbius;’ and it’s Not as Bad as Critics Would Have You Think

“Morbius” is a curious case. The latest Marvel icon (albeit an anti-hero) to grace the big screen, with a $39M opening weekend and an $88M worldwide gross has been panned by critics, earning an abysmal 16% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes (compared to a reasonable 70% audience score). It has been described as a ‘mess,’ ‘incoherent,’ and ‘half-hearted.’ It’s kind of a bizarre lashing for an off-tilt Marvel film meant to serve as the introduction of a character and possible new villain for Spider-Man. I saw the movie last weekend. My opinion was it’s entertaining, well-produced, dark, and fun. I don’t know where any of the scorn is coming from, but here we are to review it. 

I’ll admit I’m not overly familiar with the character of Michael Morbius, despite being a fan of Spider-Man. I went into the film with mild aspirations. It is a vampire/anti-hero film; a film about a scientist that suffers a rare blood disorder, and by trying to cure himself, becomes a living vampire. Most vampirism in literature or film portrays them to be either blood-thirsty or remorseful. And while “Morbius” promised horror, what we find is one that anchors onto the more remorseful side of things, tinged with themes of science, regret, and abomination. 

‘Morbius’ Takes the Time to Set Up its Character

What “Morbius” does well is it takes its time to set up the character, and, like Marvel’s “Doctor Strange,” is not in a rush to get there. In fact, there are parallels to “Doctor Strange” throughout “Morbius.” The scientist/doctor who seeks answers, the mind that has gone too far, etc. And while Strange is cock-sure for most of his intro film, Morbius is not. He’s prudent, and a bit cautious. When things spiral out of control (read: when he becomes a vampire and kills a bunch of people on a ship), the effort is written well, and played equally well by actor Jared Leto. 

What’s also nice about “Morbius” is it encompasses its characters in a hidden circle of their own, and this movie feels about them, rather than biting off more than it can chew. It introduces a kindly caretaker for Morbius, Emil (Jared Harris), a fellow doctor and love interest, Martine (Adria Arjona), and a first kin and then foe Milo (played suitably and evilly by Matt Smith). It has lots of scenes toward the beginning of Morbius discussing his plan with Martine and Milo, and lots of reconsideration when things go bad. The scene on the ship off the coast of Long Island is creepy and well-done; its follow-ups in Morbius’ lab are appropriate and reclusive. 

Some Bombastic Visual FX; but Some of them are Pretty Neat

The film is directed by Daniel Espinosa and shot by Oliver Wood, and they present an easily digestible comic book film with the usual twists and turns. Wood, especially, basks the film in a bevy of hard-hitting combat scenes, and his take on vampire movement (highlighted by colorful follow trails and ambiguous visual effects) are suitable, if a little bombastic. But say what you will: a scene where vampire Morbius learns to fly is pretty neat, and shows the character’s intellect and bravery. 

The cast support the film well, and Leto specifically does a good job playing a character that is headstrong but not reckless. And while a post-credit scene (not to be spoiled here) takes back some of Morbius’ virtuous behavior prior, Leto spends most of the film’s run-time injecting the main character with a will, conscience, and drive that works. His actions are borne out of an ambivalent violence that becomes controlled, rather than his co-star Matt Smith’s Milo, who starts with helplessness that becomes sardonically and explosively violent. Their pairing works because the film starts their relationship early and develops a chemistry that makes sense. And under this lies a not-so-subtle message on the treatment of the disabled in society. “Morbius,” in that vein, shares themes with “X-Men,” as Marvel comics suitably draw off each other. 

Small Criticisms, but a Pleasing Run-Time

If there are small criticisms in “Morbius,” it could be that it spends too much time setting up its plot and less time getting to the action (though I feel this is a strength), and possibly that its FX are a little too forceful and hard-hitting, where subtler effects may have gone a long way. The beginning also jumps around a bit. But on the whole this is a good movie. It sets up the character nicely, is a fitting origin story, and has pleasing chemistry between all of its characters and leaves us wanting more. And in a league of superhero films (“The Batman’s” near 3 hour run-time, for example), “Morbius’” 1 hour and 44 minute run is more than kind to its audience. 

All-in-all “Morbius” is a fine movie. It has its high points and its low points, but is in by no means a “mess,” “half-hearted,” or “incoherent” as cited above. If anything, the film shows that everyone views things differently, and the only way to know for sure is to see the film yourself. If you like Marvel or comic book films, the film is not likely to disappoint. “Morbius” does what it intends to do, which is entertain and leave an enjoyable film in its wake. It’s critical lashing, as explored in a Rotten Tomatoes editorial podcast, may continue to be a confusing phenomenon. 

Currently, “Morbius” is only available to watch in theaters. 

Support the Site: Consider becoming a sponsor to unlock exclusive, member-only content and help support The Movie Buff!