Jake Sulpice

jake@jakesulpice.com

Prometheus

Watched on


David enters the main room of the superior beings.

Viewing the science fiction genre in a vacuum, Ridley Scott’s Prometheus stands as a celestial enigma, a film with grand ambition that ultimately falters under the weight of its own thematic complexities. While Scott’s directorial prowess and the film’s stunning visuals are undeniable, Prometheus stumbles in its narrative execution, leaving you with more questions than answers.

Sometimes, to create, one must first destroy.

The film’s premise is undeniably compelling, following a team of scientists as they embark on a bold mission to uncover the origins of humanity. However, Scott’s eagerness often outpaces his storytelling ability, resulting in a convoluted and unsatisfying story. The film’s central characters, Dr. Elizabeth Shaw and the impenetrable android David, are well-performed but lack the depth and development necessary to engage the audience fully. This is strikingly apparent in scenes involving Dr. Shaw’s faith or infertility, which feel shoehorned into an otherwise straightforward and linear plot.

Dr. Shaw lies inside a chamber with blood smeared on the outside.

Despite its narrative shortcomings, Prometheus is visually remarkable, with Ridley Scott’s masterful direction creating a sense of awe and wonder. The film’s otherworldly landscapes are both breathtaking and terrifying, and the claustrophobic interiors of the titular spacecraft contribute to the overall feeling of suspense and atmosphere.

_ Have a good journey, Mr. Weyland._

I went in with lowered expectations, mainly because I love Alien and didn’t think this would hold a candle to it, but it still fell a bit short of its potential. While Scott’s commitment and creative stroke are commendable, the film’s flawed narrative and poorly refined characters prevent it from achieving something great within an already appreciable franchise. As much as I wanted to praise this as something thought-provoking that could go toe-to-toe with the original Alien, it ultimately left me frustrated and wanting more from the script.

Newborn alien screams.


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