Los Angeles, City of Angels, is having one hell of a population crisis after thousands of demons decide to set up camp there.

Keanu Reeves plays John Constantine, a chain-smoking misery who fears nothing from fighting these demons after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

As a child, Constantine sees horrifying visions of hell and monsters. After years of suffering this torment he tries to kill himself. As hospital staff claim he technically died for two minutes, the Catholic church views this as committing suicide successfully - a mortal sin - and John is told he will never be admitted to heaven when he dies but can instead look forward to entering hell's fiery portal.

To ingratiate himself with God once more, Constantine sets out to banish Los Angeles' demons and protect mortals who come into contact with Satan's minions. The film seems to steal themes and imagery from numerous other movies, including Stigmata, Dogma, Alien and The Exorcist and breaks no new ground. The acting is quite wooden and the special effects really aren't that special.

For sheer comedic value, the best part of the film is the few minutes when Satan himself makes an appearance. His unbelievably funny voice and strange way of moving should have audiences in stitches.

HC