After Earth is essentially a creature feature film with depth, involving the basic human emotion of fear. Fear is powerful, and can be debilitating, and when facing a monster, fear can prevent you from slaying that monster, whether that monster be drug addiction, weight loss, depression, or confessing feelings to the object of one's affection. But in Kitai Raige's (Jaden Smith) case, he had to eventually fight an actual giant monster, that can literally smell his fear. These types of films ordinarily feature plenty action, and while there was action in this film, it was not over the top. I would describe After Earth as calm, suspenseful, and engaging, but with a production budget of $130 million, there could have been a little more action, but in now way was this film a disappointment. Shyamalan's trademark of steady suspense gave the film an ineffable distinct texture, minus the plot twist. Will smith plays, a stoic, and emotionally managed father, and I must say, quite convincingly, alongside his son, who skillfully acted a realistic expression of fear. There was a role reversal,where the son was a hero to the father, something possibly every father hopes for.
Columbia Pictures
Overall, the film was entertaining, well directed and produced, and the utility of the film, is worthy of mention, as it can be interpreted as motivational, to inspire people to elevate above fear, and overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. Solid. I'll give it an 80.
Official Site: www.meninblack.com Director(s): Barry Sonnenfield Writer(s): Etan Cohen, Lowell Cunningham Producer(s): Joyce Cox, Laurie Macdonald Starring: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Emma Thompson, and Jemaine Clement. Rated: PG-13
We were introduced to K and J about 15 years ago. J was just a rookie; K was just, well K. From the beginning there was a focus on K's lack of emotion. Constantly wondering what happen to K, and how and why he became so exanimate, J was mildly fed up. The third installment of Men In Blackwas really about K's history explaining how J became part of his life. Involved in this origin narrative is "Boris The Animal" played by funny man Jemaine Clement of Flight of The Conchords.
Sony Pictures
Traveling back in time to battle with Boris, J teams up with a very young and relatively vibrant K played by Josh Brolin. The duo must collaborate to stop Boris from initiating a full invasion of the planet. While entangled in this struggle to save the world, J discovers how important K is to the survival of the species. Naturally, J has to convince K of his importance in an event that is yet to happen, and J must learn to use technology from the past to secure the future of humanity.
Sony Pictures
The formula this franchise has used to secure a stable following has not changed. Creative wacky creatures are all there but all of the special effects were magnified by brilliant writing. It's touching to see what J endured to help his partner of 14 years, despite how much he dislikes K's grumpy nature. Ultimately, J discovers how much K cares for him in return in way he would have never known. A noteworthy character is the fifth dimensional being who was indispensable in helping the duo anticipate Boris's next move. Much credit has to be given to the writing for creating such an entertaining, strange, brilliant, and kind character with a remarkable ability that is essential to reaching the climax of the film.
The content of the film is consistent with the previous two films. Very entertaining. However this film brings the audience closer or involves the audience more into the friendship of J and K. As with the previous films, this sequel did not disappoint. Metacritic.com rated the film 58/100 with mixed reviews. Rottentomatoes.com granted the film 138 fresh tomatoes to 62 rotten ones for a favorable review. I'll rate it an 83.
