MOVIE REVIEW: Substance Gets Removed From the Equation in JUPITER ASCENDING

Space opera titles like Star Wars, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica and many other titles has defined infinite universes, especially with the number of stars and planets that span across the galaxy, we can only imagine if there’s really other beings out there.

There’s always a formula on why these titles have gained fans and alike, only the scope, but also the size and diversity of culture, race as well as the epic aspect of it. On the other hand, we’ve got the bold visionaries Wachowskis and their take on the Space Opera genre with, Jupiter Ascending; but does their latest film ascend to the Sci-Fi genre?

The story follows Jupiter, who was born under a night sky, with signs of being destined for destined on greater things, but in reality, she works on cleaning toilets on different homes. One day, Caine Wise, a genetically engineered ex-military hunter arrives on earth to find her and this is where Jupiter finally realize her true destiny.

While the film offers a vast, breathtaking visual scope, the narrative itself doesn’t really live up to it, especially the concept and lore just phoned in. One scene moved from one another, made it looked quite episodic (and a bit distracting); there wasn’t much enough room for establishing the setting or character development that could’ve been more beneficial to the film.

As for the characters, some of them are either one-dimensional or underused, we’ll go on to that later on. Now for the leads, Mila Kunis and Channing Tatum as Jupiter Jones and Caine Wise didn’t really made me root for any of them. First off, they really didn’t have much chemistry on the movie, there wasn’t enough spark; to put it this way, Jupiter, from being the destined one was reduced to a damsel in distress, and Caine Wise was merely there just as Channing Tatum acting like Channing Tatum, nothing really special, doing some cool moves, acting as Jupiter’s ‘Knight in shining armor’, his expressions, body language and line delivery were painfully dull.

Mila Kunis somewhat managed to get a grip of her role, but still not solid nor perfect. Surprisingly, Kunis displayed a bit of range on her character, especially the parts where she showed vulnerability, humility and some humor, and it’s actually interesting that she was also able to bring something amazing out of the material that was given to her. Given her potential, if she gets out of her comfort zone and picks the right projects, maybe she come out on her own as an actress.

Eddie Redmayne as Balem was a huge miscast here, I mean, just really huge. His effeminate body language and speech patterns was just awkward (and cringe-worthy) in so-many levels, despite of his effort on giving a menacing touch on his character; still, his outburst and berserk expressions look quite terrifying at times; but I’m sure he can pull off a great villain if gets the right scripts.

Supporting cast members like Douglas Booth and Tuppence Middleton stole every scene that they’re in it, despite of their limited screen time. Booth made Titus convincingly shady in a subtle way, adding a dose of charm and an ounce of generosity, you’ll love and hate his character at the same time, not to mention, he’s got more chemistry with Mila Kunis. Tuppence Middleton portrayed Kalique in a graceful manner, delivered her lines with elegance and carried an air of confidence without overdoing it.

Putting aside the film’s narrative flaws and characterization, I must say that the visuals here is simply engaging in general: CGI/VFX were smoothly done, I like the rough and seamless touches, the cinematography kept me watching, particularly the chase scene, which was beautifully shot; Michael Giacchino’s score was epic and had some dramatic undertones that it elevated the film.

I must say that the Wachowski’s approach on this sci-fi flick is still well-paid off, if we’re speaking in terms of its visual and technical aspects, but that’s just it. Other than that, if only the filmmakers focused on the storytelling itself, it would’ve give an opportunity to delve deeper into the film and understand the whole film’s mythos as a whole.

A very special thanks to Warner Bros. Philippines  for the invite!