Van Helsing was so awesome. It had Count Dracula, Frankenstien, the Wolf Man, and even Mister Hyde. They should make a second one with the Monster from Black Lake (or whatever that guy was), the Headless Horseman, Jack the Ripper, and the return of Dracula. I'd call it Van Helsing 2: the Army of Evil Dead.
Van helsing tried to hard, Brothers Grimm didnt try hard enough. Van helsing certainly had charm, but i agree with queeq, in saying that it was overproduced. I know Sommers was going for a cheesy B movie, but this rarely ever works when you're using a mega-budget. I felt as though Sommer's was trying to remind me, every step of the way, that i was watching a cheesy movie inspired by old school paramount monsters. I enjoyed the creature effects and character designs. I thought hugh Jackman did an ok job. I dont think the movie would have even been watchable without him. By then end of the movie, i felt as though i just finished watching a dozen of poorly executed action scenes sparced with misplaced melodrama. With that said, its still entertianing for what it is.
As for the Brothers Grimm. I was very disappointed with this movie the first time i saw it. The second time that i made myself watch it. I found myself asking why the movie failed. The characters were cast very well. It had two marquee actors that did a fine job. The production seemed spot on. With great sets, wardrobe, effects and an interesting story concept. Lacking a well paced and realized script, however, the entire movie fell apart. I'm also thinking that the story was hindered by poor direction. Although the sets seemed sufficient and well detailed. I felt as though i was stuck on a movie set. The forest scenes felt enclosed and the town appeared to be no bigger than three houses and a dirt path.
Van helsing is probably more entertaining for its non-stopped eye candy, but i prefer Brothers grimm for the brother characters