Movie Review – Prometheus (2012)

Prometheus is an intense, visually stimulating experience like no other. It had the audience gripped and raised countless ideas about the existence and origins of mankind.

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Director Ridley Scott (Alien, Blade Runner) is back and while
many have assumed this is an Alien prequel, it is not – but it does have many similarities and an eerie feel to it. Tense and also frightening, a team of explorers discover a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth which leads them to take a journey through the universe, on the ship Prometheus. A journey that could be their last – or any human’s last for that matter.

Set in 2093, the future world Scott has created is visionary. The characters are well played, but they don’t have a huge emotional connection, something I believe Scott has done intentionally so that we focus on the theories and thoughts trying to be portrayed. Michael Fassbender fans will not be disappointed as he probably puts in the best performance of the cast with his role as David – the only Robot of the 17 strong crew. -

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Noomi Rapace
(from the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo)
plays Elizabeth Shaw, the lead female character, and while not quite a Sigourney Weaver like performance, she does well. Charlize Theron plays Meredith Vickers, a very unlikeable character, one who doesn’t seem to have a heart. Also starring is Guy Pearce, who while young in the viral marketing clips, is now an old man – the owner of Weyland industries who has funded the mission.

Those expecting an action film will need to readjust their expectations. While there is some action, it takes a while for it to happen and it’s not the showpiece of the film. The thoughts it generates, the ideas it explores and the stunning visuals are what Prometheus is about and will have many discussing it for days and weeks after the film. However, I’m sure many will just enjoy the experience and not think about it again – it’s the type of film where it’s up to you how much you decide to take in. The awesome world Scott has created is one that can simply be looked at in awe, with the concepts an afterthought if you are so inclined.

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If there was a negative, it’s that we don’t really feel much for
the characters, but as mentioned before it’s something that I think is done on purpose so we focus more on the concepts. For this reason I don’t think it will recieve the acclaims other blockbusters like The Avengers will, but rather leave a lasting impact and be a movie that can be watched for years to come and still raise valid questions.

Trailers and various marketing material have polluted the lead up to Prometheus and they do slightly spoil bits and pieces of the movie, but overall it’s still a whole new experience. While it has been downgraded from MA15+ to M in Australia, I would be of the opposite opinion that this is not a movie for the young. Some scenes are a bit gorey and without giving away any spoilers there are many scenes that had me cringing or almost looking away. I’m sure some will find it a bit extreme, but majority should cope fine.

Prometheus is a movie like no other I have seen in the last few years. For a big budget blockbuster, it explores ideas and thoughts that are unique and keep you thinking. The feel of the movie is amazing with the audience gripped, especially for the latter half. The visuals are beautiful and I recommend you see it on the biggest screen possible. B+

12 comments

  1. Chris says:

    No love for Idris Elba?

  2. Alex Thomas says:

    Wasn’t really a big role but he was solid when on screen. To be honest I haven’t seen Idris in many movies before so he didn’t stand out to me. I actually thought Logan Marshall-Green was pretty good in this too.

  3. Chris says:

    Ah yeah don’t think he’s had many roles in film but he plays a sick character in the television show, The Wire.

  4. sati says:

    So glad you liked the film! I’m stunned at the negative response, when something like Avatar got so many accolades Oo

  5. Alex Thomas says:

    Agree completely, I almost feel those that didn’t like it didn’t want to like it going in. Still 74% on RottenTomatoes though. The visuals alone were enough!

  6. Justin Miller says:

    While it may not be a direct prequel, it is a precursor to the alien films , everything is connected. Also weyland*

  7. Dan says:

    Nice to hear some more positive comments about Prometheus. I was ultimately underwhelmed but I think I’ll enjoy the film more next time I see it.

    I have to admit that one of the flaws, in my view, was Idris Elba’s character – underwritten, one-dimensional. His role in the plot towards the end also defied belief.

  8. Alex Thomas says:

    It’s grown on me, I’m tempted to see it again sometime soon now that I’ve thought about it a bit.

    Idris could have been utilised a lot more, seemed a bit of a nothing character.

  9. Alex Withrow says:

    We have pretty much the exact same sentiments about this film – loved the majority of it, but it is not without its faults, however slight they may be. Good review Alex!

  10. Alex Thomas says:

    I really wanted to like it more and give it an A- or better but it does have slight faults. Thanks Alex :)

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