The Complexity of Matt Hagen Makes 'The Crow' a Successful Villain Movie James Watkins discusses how the character depth and relatability of Matt Hagen differentiate 'The Crow' from other unsuccessful villain films. The story follows Hagen's rise, fall, and transformation, which resonates with audiences seeking redemption, setting it apart from shallow portrayals in other adaptations. Director James Watkins explained that the complexity of the character Matt Hagen is what makes 'The Crow' work better as a solo movie compared to other villain-focused films. Hagen, an up-and-coming actor who loses everything due to a mob attack, provides a relatable backstory of hard work and loss, which audiences can empathize with. When Hagen becomes a monster while attempting to reclaim his life, the betrayal hits harder, making him a compelling lead that viewers want to follow and care about, unlike other failed villain adaptations that lacked such depth and relatability.