“Beowulf” is a fantasy/action CGI extravaganza directed by Robert Zemeckis, who employees the same technology used in his cinematic version of “Polar Express.”

Based on the 700 A.D. epic Old English poem, screenwriters Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary weave a bloody tale of greed and revenge. Assembling a powerhouse cast who voice their simulated counterparts; Zemeckis seems to make a case for proving real-life actors obsolete, if not for the fact that there is something creepy and distracting about seeing a “virtual” Anthony Hopkins and knowing that the flesh and blood version would likely be more interesting.

When Danish King Hrothgar (Hopkins) finds his kingdom under siege by blood-thirsty monster Grendel (voiced by Crispin Glover), he sends out a pledge to share half his wealth with any man who will rid the kingdom of the predator.

Answering the call and arriving via stormy seas is the brave and mighty Beowulf (voiced by Ray Winstone), who tells tales of his combat with sea-monsters and convinces Hrothgar that he has found his savior.

Ignoring the jealousy and wrath of the king’s aide, Unferth (voiced by John Malkovich), Beowulf prepares for his battle with Grendel, in order to reap the promised rewards, which also include the implied offering of Queen Wealthow (voiced by Robin Wright Penn).

After a gruesome and gory fight, Grendel retreats to his swampy lair with fatal wounds and Beowulf fast on his heels. When the monster’s mother (voiced by Angelina Jolie) realizes the great warrior has killed her son, she offers Beowulf the promise of wealth and the king’s throne in exchange for providing her a son.

Returning to the kingdom triumphant, Beowulf accepts Hrothgar’s bounty, and then as fate would have it, soon becomes the new king. It isn’t until years later that Beowulf discovers the price he and his people must pay for his avarice.

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Reminiscent, but not as visually artistic as Zack Synder’s ambitious feature “300,” this film will likely appeal most to fans of the “CGI genre.” But for other moviegoers, “Beowulf” may prove to be an “over-the-top,” gratuitously violent exercise in futility.

(Two stars out of four.)