After Earth Review
RYAN: It’s the new movie from M. Night Shyamalan and after three great movies, followed by four stinkers, this one was primed to go in any direction.
CAROLINE: How did it turn out?
RYAN: I really liked it. It’s a cool sci fi movie but underneath all of the dystopian future and cool effects, there’s a lot of heart to the story there. The theme actually reminds me of Disney’s Mulan. For those who are unfamiliar with that film, I don’t want to spoil anything here but some may get the reference.
CAROLINE: I never saw it. I’m glad you liked it though. M. Night isn’t a safe bet in Hollywood these days.
RYAN: Truly. He wasn’t even promoted in the ads whereas his name used to be a draw. I will say right up front that while he is known for putting a twist in his films, as a rule, there is not twist in this one – which is a good thing to know going in. I was looking for and predicting it throughout and then realized I spun my wheels for no reason. It’s just a straightforward survival/adventure film.
CAROLINE: I just don’t wanna see anything with Jaden Smith in it. I can’t stand that kid.
RYAN: OMG I can’t either and for the same reasons as you but I have to admit he gives a good performance in this. I was mildly perturbed by his accent in this film. It’s a bit soft and southern; since you know that’s not how he really speaks it stood out. I suppose because they are humans who don’t live on Earth, their dialect could really be anything but I found it more distracting than interesting.
CAROLINE: And how was Poppa Will?
RYAN: He’s great. But, of course, right? When do we ever dislike him?
CAROLINE: Yeah he’s pretty consistent and he does make a good summer blockbuster when he puts his mind to it.
RYAN: This was produced by Will and Jada and M. Night. It’s a good story and the sci fi is cool too. I love sci fi and while this isn’t one of my favorites ever, I would easily watch it again. It’s under two hours is actually quite suspenseful.
CAROLINE: I love suspense.
RYAN: The pacing is really perfect. I know M. Night was editing it forever and I appreciate they got it down to the right time and pacing.
CAROLINE: Yeah the length can bury a movie. How are the effects?
RYAN: Good – not as great as the CGI animals in Life of Pi but still really good. And I especially loved the special effects on Jaden’s costume. It was like chameleon skin, changing to mean different things. I want a shirt like that.
CAROLINE: [laughs’ Like a mood ring shirt?
RYAN: Exactly. This is a strong film. The story works. Will and Jaden have fantastic chemistry as father and son, which they should. It’s very clearly not their real life relationship but that speaks to each of their strengths as actors. I’m just so thankful M. Night didn’t disappoint this time.
