This is a tough movie to give a rating for.
It’s definitely falls into the “style over substance” category but damn the style is cool. The aesthetics are so dialed in from the amazing camera work, lighting and practical sets, but the story is lacking.
Our protagonist, Riya, has no clear goal nor is she likable. In fact, both her and Bryan have no interesting character traits at all. They’re the stereotypical sci-fi protagonist, just two dark and bruiting people…
Honestly liked the twist at the end but this movie has a horrible pacing problem. Rarely do
I think movies need anything over 1:30 run time, but I think this movie definitely could have benefited from it.
I see wanting to see it from the perspective of the victims and the editing to feel like the fever dream their living, but in a way they don’t go far enough or provide enough explanation or even enough time for tension to rise.
I used to be a Channing Tatum hater, I’ll be honest. But lately I think he’s on a hot streak.
So good. But in true Alex Garland fashion, the ending left a lot to be desired. It wasn't as satisfying as I wanted. There was a point where I though this was going to be a top ten, but it doesn't really keep the momentum of the first half. I didn't feel true elevation of stakes until the last 30 minutes, and even then, pace and resolution wasn't satisfying.
But definitely happy I waited to see this in Imax for the first time.
Everything about this movie just feels nostalgic. Not just the visuals but the feeling a of a young filmmaker, as a young artist. The journey of filming your toys, then siblings, then friends, just echoes so true for so many people who aspire to make a film. An incredibly touching film that had me in tears of joy by the end, that resonated with me so deeply.
Also best final shot of the year.
