Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter - B

Rated R, 105 minutes

This rousing, clever "Lincoln" is bloody, over-the-top fun

Benjamin Walker as "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter"

"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" reshapes history as never before, turning one of our most beloved politicians into a studly, vampire-killing machine. Based on the fictional mash-up novel of the same name by Seth Grahame-Smith, the handsome, striking production is as entertaining and clever as it is utterly preposterous. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov of "Wanted" fame, the film tells the story of how young Abe Lincoln encounters his first vampire at age 11, when one kills his mother and he pledges lifelong revenge for his mother's death. As Lincoln grows into a man (played by newcomer Benjamin Walker), he meets Henry Sturges (Dominic Cooper), who becomes his mentor in the way of vampire killing. As Lincoln rises to power as President, Lincoln soon realizes there's a larger war at hand as some vampires led by Adam (Rufus Sewell), who want to use American slavery to enslave mankind as a whole. "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" is a refreshing, enjoyable take on the Lincoln legend with some striking visuals that make it easier to swallow the ludicrous plot. The film's initial chapters are strongest and burst with the same type of energy as Lincoln learns his power and strength in the same way a superhero such as Spider-Man did. It also helps that Walker, a relatively untested actor, uncannily resembles a young Lincoln and makes for inspired casting in the lead role; Cooper is also memorable as Lincoln's partner Henry, who has some secrets of his own. Bekmambetov, who handled the impressive visuals in "Wanted," does an equally sublime job here, making up for the weak second act, a disconnected villain and a too-ambitious plot that varies considerably from the book. Yes, this is all pretty violent too, but combined with Bekmambetov's strong visual flair, it's the chief reason to see the charming, enjoyable "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," which is terrific fun as long as you don't take it too seriously.