That’s a pity.
You should go watch this movie, if you’re a sci-fi fan. Is it the Best Movie Ever? Well, no. It bites off a bit more than it can chew, in my opinion. It’s got 3/4 of a fantastic movie, and 1/4 of a really good movie. If that 1/4 had started the film, or been the second or third quarter, it wouldn’t have mattered as much. But it’s the last 1/4, which is unfortunate. Still, it’s not insurmountable, and it by no means is a deal breaker. This is a solid three star movie in my book, and it’s worthy of your cold hard cash.
One reason it’s probably not gaining any traction is that it’s one of those “You need to see it to know what it’s about” sort of things. There are twists and turns to the plot, and you don’t want to be spoiled going into it. So I won’t tell you about those things. Another reason is that I think it has an awful title. Source code? The thing sounds boring as something named “Users Manual.” It’s generic, and it lacks anything to set it apart.
One warning: the climax has the biggest flaw for the film, and it’s the reason the movie didn’t make it to 3.5 stars or higher for me. It peaks a bit too soon, and then you’re left with 15 minutes of long denouement, which felt really out of place for me in this genre.
Why should you see it? It’s smart sci-fi. It’s demanding and intriguing. It’s well acted. It’s unpredictable. It’s just a fun movie.
One interesting tidbit if you’re a Quantum Leap fan: the voice of the father is Scott Bakula. There are very clear Quantum Leap parallels in this movie–yet another reason why it’s a shame it’s not getting better play.
Already seen it? Disagree with me? Speak up!
this is one of the best movies of the year to date.
Glad you agreed–I wondered if you’d seen it and what your thoughts were. Did you see the same issues with the climax, or were you happier with it than I was?