Jared Leto stars in a scene from the movie "Morbius." The Catholic News Service classification is A-III -- adults. (CNS/Sony Pictures)

By Catholic News Service

Jared Leto stars in this drab Marvel Comics-based adventure, directed by Daniel Espinosa. He plays the gifted physician of the title who, in attempting to cure the blood disease from which he has suffered since childhood, partially succeeds but with the rather alarming side effect that he frequently transforms into a rampaging vampire. His double-edged breakthrough has implications both for his lifelong best friend (Matt Smith), who is afflicted with the same illness, and his closest collaborator and potential love interest (Adria Arjona).

Debates in the dialogue about whether the superpowers the doctor gains along with his thirst for plasma are a gift or a curse are secondary to the depiction of his ability to zoom around and wreak destruction. The combination makes for a grinding experience. Possibly acceptable for older teens.

Mostly stylized violence with some gore, a scene of torture, brief irreverence, at least one rough term, about a half-dozen crude expressions, fleeting crass language. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

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