Review of Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2001) by Camila A — 30 Nov 2011

"Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within" decides to completely do its own thing and be a sci-fi film much more than a fantasy. It's not a bad idea exactly, but this film probably should've at least had source material behind it. First of all, the story (although it's semi-developed) really feels empty. There are weird dream sequences cut in throughout the film, and I don't see why they couldn't just wait 'till the final reveal to have them. It messes with the flow of the movie and just confuses the audience.

Aside from the story, the characters are pretty cliche and flat. The token scientist woman who wants to save the world, the big tough marine and his squad or mismatched troops--complete with a wise-cracking Steve Buscemi voiced dude. It's a retread and it feels kinda boring.

There is so alright action scenes, but overall "Final Fantasy" feels like a feast for the eyes more than anything else. Yes it's very video-gamey, but this was also the first film with an entirely CGI cast (human CGI).

It's alright as a rental, but there's really nothing new going on here. Not recommended.