Ok, so considered to be a travesty of all things good in the film industry, a showcase of bad acting, writing and directing – I have to say, I’ve never found it to be that horrendous. I probably have very low standards; I can accept that. I’ve never been good at spotting ‘good’ acting, usually too swept up in interesting ‘backstory’ that I can use to fuel my own imaginings – and this has some pretty nice backstory.

Based off an old series that was apparently very popular in its time (and supposed to have been released recently – I’ll need to keep an eye out) it’s set in the Wild West that never was – one of mad geniuses and steam devices gone awry. So, good start there. Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for the inventor archtype, and less for the physical hero type – so Artemus Gordon the ‘good’ inventor and the evil genius Dr Loveless, though both overacted, made me smile repeatedly. Their inventions are deliciously detailed and resplendant in brilliant brass and the unsung beauty of this film is undoubtedly their personalised steamtrain. You thought I would mention Salma Hayek? Unfortunately, she’s not really developed much as a character, and I didn’t find myself liking her that much.

Verdict: The backstory is wonderful, the machines and inventions are superb, but I can only recommend to the quality-blind like myself. High score for machines, lowered for lost opportunities.

Steampunk Score: 6/10