Tomorrowland: Movie Review
I can only think of a handful of major Hollywood directors that truly understand how to make a fantastical film using today’s technology to service their story instead of overshadowing it. Filmmakers that care about their characters and not just the visual spectacle. J.J. Abrams is one of them, Bryan Singer (with the exception of a few missteps) is another, and Brad Bird is definitely one of them as well. His latest film “Tomorrowland” reminds me of the films I grew up with, most notably the ones directed by Spielberg. This is definitely a very good thing. In an age where the tent-pole season is dominated by sequels and superheroes, it is great to see something come along that is original and fun.
“Tomorrowland” centers on Casey Newton (Britt Robertson), a smart and curious teen who comes across a pin that when she touches, gives her a look at a world of the future. When the pin stops working, she goes on a mission to seek answers. After being attacked by a couple of androids (Keegan-Michael Key and Kathryn Hahn), she is rescued by Athena (Raffey Cassidy), who also happens to be an android. Together they go find the only other person that can help them, Frank Walker (George Clooney). Together they head to Tomorrowland and that is where Casey learns that her world will end in two months time. Athena believes that Casey is the only one who can save Earth from its’ man-made destruction.
“Tomorrowland” is visually stunning, especially during the scenes that take place in the city of the future. One of my favorite sequences sees Casey take a tour of the city via the pin and it simply amazes. Clooney, who doesn’t do much family fare is great here and I believe he elevates the performances from the cast around him, especially Robertson.
There isn’t much out there to bring the family to in theaters and I am pretty sure you all have seen the new “Avengers” film already. If you are looking for a great time in the multiplex, and your kids are too young to see “Mad Max: Fury Road”, then “Tomorrowland” should be your destination.
Marc Ferman