Review of Looper (2012) by Eli O — 22 Feb 2017

Looper is a 2012 science fiction thriller, written and directed by Rian Johnson. This film revolves around the idea of contract killers using time travel. In the year 2044, criminals called "loopers" are paid to kill people sent to them by the mafia through time travel. Despite time travel being highly illegal in the year 2074, sending victims back 30 years to be killed and disposed of is the most efficient way to kill without leaving a trace. Even with significant plot issues, the film was well scripted and presented, making it overall a reasonably entertaining movie rather than the disaster it could have been.

One of the main characters Joe, portrayed by both Joseph Gordon-Levitt (present day Joe) and Bruce Willis (future Joe) is one of these loopers. Eventually, the day dreaded by every looper comes around. Joe is tasked with killing his future self. However, when present Joe fails to "close the loop" and future Joe escapes, the movie takes off.

The whole idea of time traveling killings, is quite unique and intriguing. Unfortunately, the plot left a lot to be desired. As one could expect in any futuristic sci-fi movie, there were several plot holes. For example, little effort was put into explaining how time travel worked. When it came up during a conversation between old and young Joe, it was quickly shot down as future Joe yelled "It doesn't matter!" There were also questions as to why the victims were not killed before being sent back in time. It would seem to be much more efficient and prevent any risk of escape (cough, cough). Another questionable situation is why the looper must be the one to kill himself. Again, an unnecessary risk this so called smart and superior mafia is taking, as any looper will be hesitant to kill his future self.

One more criticism that must be addressed is how the focus completely changes in the middle of the movie. To begin, the film centers on old Joe trying to escape young Joe. Without conclusion to that conflict, a child who supposedly grows into an evil, supernatural leader, spontaneously becomes the new objective for both young and old Joe. The writers failed to properly transition into this new story, leaving the audience in disarray.

Despite these gaping issues, the rest film was put together well. The other main actors Emily Blunt, Jeff Daniels, Noah Segan, and especially the young Pierce Gagnon, all seemed very comfortable and in-touch with their characters. Emily Blunt as Sara looked very natural playing the "tough girl" and speaking in an American accent. Pierce Gagnon who played the 10 year old Cid, also exceeded expectations with stellar lines and physique, acting well above his actual age.

Again, anybody can find flaws with a movie based on time traveling contract killers, but the originality, acting, and even some well-done special effects boost this movie above the mediocracy hump. Overall, a movie you'd enjoy watching once, but wouldn't order on Blu-ray.