Predestination (2014)
1:34 PM
Extremely Clever - Takes Time Travel films to a New Destination
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Predestination is the 3rd film that is directed by The Spierig Brothers (Daybreakers, Undead) and stars Ethan Hawke (Boyhood, Getaway) with Sarah Snook (Jessabelle, Not Suitable for Children). The film tells the story of the life of a time-travelling secret agent who, on his final mission, must defeat the one criminal that has avoided him throughout time. Described by other critics as using 'uncommon intelligence' - just how clever can Predestination be?
As the title of this review says, Predestination is EXTREMELY clever - It is mind-blowing how everything ties together so well. Credit has to go to the Spierig Brothers for writing such an incredible and original film - It is refreshing to see some originality as most of the films I watched in February seemed to be quite unoriginal. I don't want to say much about this film's plot because it would literally ruin everything but it is really really clever and gets you thinking. However, some may say the way everything ties together is quite unrealistic and convenient but once you get past that, it is excellent! Like Gone Girl, this has one of them moments where everything falls into place and you literally say 'OMG' aloud - fantastic! The film is not very sloppy and doesn't leave any loose ends which is fantastic - it is smart and classy!
The performances are also really excellent. Ethan Hawke seems to be getting better and better with every role I see him in. He was ok in Getaway, good in Boyhood and excellent in this! Although for the most part of this film, his role isn't very challenging, he does put on a great performance and really helps to build the mysterious atmosphere - his character is just referred to as 'The Barkeep' on IMDB - neither of the main characters actually have a name. I was unfamiliar with Sarah Snook before watching this film but now she will always be in my mind as an excellent actress - she basically played two characters (hopefully that doesn't spoil anything) and performed as both of them really well! Snook may have a promising future now she has this on her acting resume!
The only issue I had with this film is that it is quite slow and doesn't really have a clear direction until towards the end. However, this does prove quite effective towards the end as the audience have been clouded and really helps create shocking and surprising moments! To say this film is unpredictable is an understatement.
Predestination is a new kind of sci-fi film - like The Babadook did to the horror genre, I think Predestination may have redefined the sci-fi genre. The film is incredibly clever and unpredictable - it also helps that even though the surprises are quite convenient, they are not too unrealistic either. Hawke and Snook put on excellent performances - both should be proud to have worked on this film. I am very impressed with what the Spierig Brothers have done here. Predestination has minor flaws but is a thrilling and refreshing masterpiece!
4 STARS
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Predestination
Rated 4/5 based on 1 reviews
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