‘Prometheus’ Film Review

Prometheus Movie Review by Mike Smith

According to the “Alien” time line, it was June 2122 (about 110 years from now) that the USCSS Nostromo ran into a little trouble.

In 2093 a group of space travelers, led by scientists Elizabeth Shaw (Rapace) and Charlie Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green) awaken from a deep slumber to find themselves in route to what they hope is the discovery of the century. Their trip financed by the very wealth, but very old, Peter Weyland (Guy Pearce), the reason for this mission comes from the various paintings found on ancient cave wall all over the world. To Elizabeth and Charlie the clues are unmistakable. “I think they want us to come find them,” Elizabeth comments. Maybe…..

Directed with the same master-touch he brought to such films as “Alien,” “Blade Runner,” Thelma and Louise” and “Gladiator” by Ridley Scott, “Prometheus” is a stand-alone film that may or may not have something to do with the “Alien” series. I’m hedging my comments because it’s truly up for the audience to decide Scott’s message to film goers. Co-written by long time “Lost” scribe Damon Lindelof, who also has “Cowboys and Aliens” and the upcoming “Star Trek” film on his list of credits, the story blends horror and mystery perfectly, greatly assisted by some first rate actors.

Fassbender continues his rise to the top of my favorite actors working today with a brilliant portrayal of David, a cyborg creature still trying his best to understand the world around him and the people he serves. Rapace is a revelation as a tougher then she seems character who actually “out-Ripleys” Sigourney Weaver’s character in “Alien.” Though Elizabeth and Charlie are technically in charge of the expedition the real boss is Meridith Vickers (Theron), a woman shrouded in mystery. As played by Theron she is very tough and self-sufficient. Other members of the crew include ship captain Janek (Idris Elba) and his first mate, Ravel (Benedict Wong).

Like with “Alien,” Scott depends on the atmosphere and sets to influence the audience’s emotions. His cameras move briskly through vast caves and hurtle down ship hallways as if he’s leading a roller coaster ride that you can’t catch your breath on. The production design by long time Scott associate and two-time Oscar nominee (“Gladiator,” “American Gangster”) Arthur Max is stunning while the musical score by Marc Streitenfeld helps set the films’ tone.

Starring: Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender and Charlize Theron
Directed by: Ridley Scott
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 2 hrs 4 mins
20th Century Fox

Universal MEDIA MIKES SCORE: 4 out of 5 stars