Review: Elysium Is One Of The Coolest Sci-Fi Films To Date
- May 30, 2017
- 2 min read
Following up a great film is a difficult challenge for any director. But following up one of the best films ever made? Nigh on impossible. With the release of Elysium, Neill Blomkamp didn't quite surpass expectations. The film was panned and, while it isn't perfect and it definitely isn't District 9, it's a solid sci-fi all the same.
It is 2154 and the world is divided. On the surface of planet Earth, the people live in squalor, massive slums dominating the horizon. Above them is Elysium, an orbital structure wherein only the rich and powerful can afford to live. While the everyday men and women struggle to survive, those on Elysium enjoy near immortality and machines that can heal any injury, any sickness. When Max (Matt Damon), an ex-con living in Los Angeles, receives a lethal dose of radiation, one that can only be repaired on Elysium. He has five days to live, five days to reach Elysium, and there's only a robotic police force and the psychotic Kruger (Sharlto Copley) standing in his way.
While it's story telling is somewhat more heavy handed than District 9, with much of its allegory being heavily applied rather than quietly implied, and the characters aren't nearly as compelling as Blomkamp's earlier film, Elysium makes up for it by being nothing short of cool. Once again it brings forth some next level effects work, seamlessly blending robots, flying cars and railguns with gorgeous sets and grimy slums. Blomkamp once again displays his eye for visuals with Elysium having some awesome cinematography and some spectacular action.
Kruger makes for a damn good villain as well. While he's not exactly some deeply flawed character, more inline with something from a comic book, he's gloriously over the top and out acts veterans Matt Damon and Jodie Foster. He's a no nonsense lunatic who enjoys killing, an he isn't afraid to get nasty. From his first moment to his last, he dominates every scene he's in with impunity.
The action is some of the best sci-fi action around, combing the visceral combat of District 9 with exoskeletal brawls, creative weaponary and some beautifully contrasting visuals. Even if you're not a fan of of the plot or characters, it's easy to enjoy the action.
Elysium is no District 9. Its commentary is far less subtle, the characters aren't as interesting and it isn't as well written. But is it really such a terrible thing to fail to top the greatest science fiction film of all time? Not at all. Elysium is a fun watch with some incredible action and a great villain. Definitely check this one out.
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