Review of Oblivion (2013) by Foxgrove — 18 Apr 2013

The first blockbuster out of the gate is for the most part an engaging sci-fi thriller. An obliterated New York looks great! Photographed and lit superbly, for the most part in muted colour tones, the resultant effect works extremely well.

In fact, the film intrigues right up until the true identity of the scavengers is revealed. From here on a lack of clarity in the script, self indulgence in the direction and a surplus of endings that becomes tiresome dilutes the overall effect.

The final twist is just one unbelievable plot point too far, given the context of what's gone before. Cruise and, especially, Andrea Riseborough make an effective team. Melissa Leo is again just fab in another of her small, but effective, supporting turns and it is only Morgan Freeman who doesn't bring anymore than his obvious stature to the role.

Also, although it is not his fault, it is precisely on his entry that the film begins to implode. Still, if the other blockbusters are half as imaginative and entertaining as this one we will indeed be fortunate.