Oblivion (2013) directed by Joseph Kosinski, 9th April

Plot

War once raged on Earth after a failed alien invasion by the Scavs. We won but all that is left is a devastated Earth. Humanity has deserted Earth for Titan leaving a lone Drone repairman and his companion to keep the fusion reactors running helping the rest of Humanity with their energy needs. The drones are protecting the reactors from the few Scavs that have survived. Slowly he starts to get memory flashes of a previous life. Until one day he discovers a human casket from a crashed space craft where inside it he discovers someone which will cause him to question everything he believes in.

Review

From the opening scenes and the sets what you notice is how beautiful it all visually looks. From the aesthetics of the home to the landscapes which incorporate the avenues of New York as deep canyons. It is a visual treat. This alone however does not make a good film but for a Sci Fi film it definitely helps and sets the tone of the film.

Tom Cruise gives his usual turn and fortunately he is not running everywhere for a change. The female leads of Olga Kurylenko and especially Andrea Risborough  are good. Morgan Freeman gives  a solid and workman like appearance though the character he plays he has done before.

The story follows a fairly linear course which initially is it's weakness and makes the story quite implausible but then there is a very effective flashback towards the end of the film which nicely wraps up the story and pulls the film back. The finale is a bit Independence day like  and the final ending could have been a lot braver but then again this is a Hollywood block buster and a Hollywood like ending is expected.

There are sufficient twists and turns in the film and thinking back all the hints are already there. Great aerial chase scenes and dog fights which gives a great roller coaster of a ride to this film.

Joseph Kosinski was given us a beautifully rendered Earth. What this film shares with Tron Legacy are stunning visuals and where they differ is that this film has a far better story.

For a 12A I was a little surprised with some of the language in the film but this is British Board of Film Classification decision.

Not every one is going to like Sci Fi but this is a good intelligent Sci Fi film. Beautifully brought to life, good action scenes, well acted and with enough twists to keep one interested.

8.5/10