The thing about sci-fi movies, is that they all have something in common with one another. Whether that be eye-popping visual effects or exciting action sequences, sci-fi films are arguably one of the most stunning and mesmerizing. But given those attributes, some sci-fi films go over the top. This new Will Smith film does exactly that.
You think with big stars and directors a film would succeed, but not in this case. It does a seldom job at thoroughly entertaining. This film helmed by acclaimed director Ang Lee is imaginative but slow. What goes on in the film seems a bit dull with an intriguing story, but it just doesn’t match up with the rest of sci-fi films because of its mediocrity. Lee does a great job at crafting the action sequences and eye-popping visuals, yet the film seems a little to cliché with a been there, done that approach as far as sci-fi films are concerned.
Will Smith stars in what might be one of his better roles, even though the film may seem dull at times or to dramatic and near sighted, this film is worth watching just for its exciting action sequences and visuals. Alongside Smith, is Mary Elizabeth Winstead, “Sky High”. She brings a balance to the film that is compatible with her leading co-star.
Acclaimed composer Lorne Balfe scores this sci-fi action film. Balfe adds a riveting score to the film to where it blends well into the film overall. This score is as upbeat and intense as the film itself. With the film being somewhat of a slow work of sci-fi cinema, this films score compensates for that quality.
Like I said, this is one of Will Smiths better roles we’ve seen him in lately. Smith was able to achieve yet another sci-fi film while being an integral part of it. I don’t think that this is my favorite Will Smith film at all, because this film missed so many opportunities to be successful.
The sci-fi genre is one of my favorite kind of films. With that in mind, it’s disappointing that a film with such potential to be a good sci-fi film, just ignores all and just makes it up as it goes on. This year hasn’t really seen much of sci-fi films. But that doesn’t mean that there are a few here and there. With Will Smith making sci-fi films part of him, this film is just overall a bleak and downright let down- even if the film is thoroughly entertaining.
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| Photo Courtesy of Paramount Pictures |
Rate: C+
Starring: Will Smith, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Clive Owen and Benedict Wong
Director: Ang Lee
MPAA Rating:PG-13 (for violence and action throughout, and brief strong language)
Runtime: 2 Hours
Synopsis: Henry Brogan is an elite 51-year-old assassin who's ready to call it quits after completing his 72nd job. His plans get turned upside down when he becomes the target of a mysterious operative who can seemingly predict his every move. To his horror, Brogan soon learns that the man who's trying to kill him is a younger, faster, cloned version of himself.
