The fun in science fiction films is guessing if the
predicted future will happen. While previous entries have failed
miserably – no flying cars by 2015 as shown in ‘Back to the Future 2’ – others
have come remarkably close. That adds a layer of enjoyment in any movie in
this genre having unlimited story scope. ‘Passengers’ picks up on this
with a futuristic tale typically loaded with dazzling CGI. More
substantial than most, it bravely makes its own predictions of a future current
viewers will likely never appreciate.
Thousands of colonists are on the starship, Avalon,
journeying towards a new planet. Taking 120 years to reach its
destination, its inhabitants are placed in suspended hibernation until its
completion. One of the passengers, Jim Preston (Chris Pratt), is
mysteriously woken 90 years too early. After some time wandering the ship
alone, he meets Aurora (Jennifer Lawrence), also woken from sleep. Aurora joins
Jim in searching for answers as they grapple with the loneliness deep space
offers.
‘Passengers’ is an odd concoction of styles. Whilst
the performances of Pratt and Lawrence are first rate with some incredible CGI,
the story’s main focus leaves a lot to be desired. To say anymore would
be unfair, although it alters your perception of events. This makes for
uncomfortable viewing in a film slowly sinking in a quagmire of story
styles. Not knowing if it’s a thriller, romance, drama or comedy, the mix
of genre staples never fully gels.
What it lacks in focus, it almost makes up for with its
leads. ‘Passengers’ thrives on the acting skills of Pratt and Lawrence
who give it their all. Their character’s actions are easily understood as they are
grounded in believability. Although sounding absurd in a sci-fi film set
centuries in the future, viewers would never be able to invest in such a
fanciful tale if not for the strength of performances. The sense of
isolation and loneliness is keenly felt via their roles with plenty of
opportunities for the leads to fully shine.
Despite its pacing and script issues, ‘Passengers’
captivates until its final frame. It’s a thought-provoking piece on the
nature of love and overcoming emotional hardships. It may not be
remembered like other sci-fi films but ‘Passengers’ offers some intriguing
glimpses of a future our descendants may endure.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 6
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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