The Crow: The Life, Death, and Rebirth of a Classic Film, Revised and Updated

The making of The Crow and its legacy is entwined with the tragic and preventable death of its star, Brandon Lee, who was shot during its filming. Adapted from a James O’Barr supernatural comic book series at a time when superheroes didn’t define American cinema, the 1994 movie follows an undead vigilante seeking retribution for his and his fiancée’s brutal murders. Journalist Baiss updates her oral history of the film, first published in 2000, with new interviews, a look at the upcoming remake, and a discussion of the tragic and preventable death that occurred during the filming of Rust. After 30 years, the author found more people willing to talk to her about The Crow, although director Alex Proyas and those close to him still declined. With those who agreed to interviews, the passage of time and grief may have muddled some of their memories; conflicting accounts are given regarding the film’s origin and production.