The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

About The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen is a 2003 action-adventure film directed by Stephen Norrington. The movie is loosely based on the first volume of the comic book series of the same name by Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill. The plot involves a band of legendary literary characters, who pool their extraordinary talents to combat a dire threat. Set in an alternative Victorian Age, this group contains famous figures such as Allan Quatermain, Captain Nemo, Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde, and Mina Harker, who are called upon to stop a villain intent on turning the nations of the world against one another.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by Don Murphy and Trevor Albert, while the screenplay was penned by James Dale Robinson. The filming was done in various locations, including Malta, the Czech Republic and Iceland. Unfortunately, production was troubled, with various disagreements and rumors of feuds between the director and leading actors.

Actors

• Sean Connery as Allan Quatermain: Connery portrayed the titular character with a nod to his iconic roles as a action hero, bringing charisma and leadership to the team.
• Peta Wilson as Mina Harker: Wilson’s role as the vampiric Mina allowed her to showcase a commanding yet ethereal performance.
• Shane West as Tom Sawyer: West brought youth and vitality to the role, signifying the next generation of heroes.
• Tony Curran as Rodney Skinner (The Invisible Man): Curran provided comic relief in his role, perfectly executing his character's witty and mischievous nature.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This was the last live-action feature film that Sean Connery appeared in before his retirement from acting.
• The characters in the movie are all based on Victorian literature, such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray", "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Dracula".
• The explanation of Mina's vampire characteristics differs from her literary origin in "Dracula".

Quotes

• "I'm waiting to be impressed." - Allan Quatermain
• "I may not be the man I was when the Captain took me prisoner, but, by God, I can still fight!" - Tom Sawyer
• "What are we, a league of frightened old women?" - Mina Harker

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's music was composed and conducted by Trevor Jones. It includes the tracks "Dawn of a New Century" and "Nautilus Escape".
• The soundtrack, released by Varèse Sarabande, contains the full score in its chronological order. It is praised for its blend of electronic and orchestral music corresponding well with the movie's setting.