Review of Serenity (2015) by Jacob R — 30 Jan 2015

Just by the way, I'm not one of those nuts who was completely obsessed with the show before the film came out. In fact, I didn't even know there was a show until after I watched the movie. This rating, then, is based solely upon the movie itself, bereft of the backstories of the characters and the foundations of having watched the show. .

This movie should not exist. By all rights, it should not have even been conceived as a thought of making this film. How often is it that a TV show which had jack all in the ratings scale, was cancelled in the middle of one season and was filled with a cast of unknowns gets made into a film? Never, is the answer. It NEVER happens. But thank the heavens that it did, because the result is spectacular. .

Serenity begins with a fantastic dream within a recording within a flashback sequence which sets the tone for the rest of the film brilliantly; a slightly neurotic, slickly versed action sci-fi which is a roller coaster ride from the start to the fantastic finish. .

As we follow the story of River Tam, the empire on her tail and the rag-tag crew with whom she resides, we meet a fantastic range of characters and some fantastic action sequences, all written and directed flawlessly by Joss Whedon. The relatively unknown filmmaker shows us a flair for action and hand for writing which most people would kill for. He displays an ability to include his audience in both aspects, bringing you in on all the in-jokes and putting you squarely inside the intense action sequences like a seasoned pro. It's a testament to great things which are most certainly to come. .

Each member of the cast seems to know their character inside out, a benefit from having done a TV show as 'practice' But it is Nathan Fillion who you will remember most here. His career creating role as Capt. Malcolm Reynolds Is fantastic. He embodies his character at every turn, showing a fantastic grasp of the humour which permeates the film as well as showing the unpredictable, hard-nut, not-quite-honourable space pirate as well. His is a very layered performance which isn't something you would usually expect in an action/sci-fi/western. He's this decade's Han Solo for sure. .

The script, as I mentioned before, is amazing. Effortlessly blending comedy and drama, it manages to streer clear of cheese and actually effect you in some cases. It is written perfectly for each character as well, not just in their different phrases but to do with their states of mind and their beliefs. The actual plot line is great too. Instead of being a forgettable excuse to have these great characters onscreen, the plot will actually have you thinking by the end. .

The CG is fantastic. On a par with Iron Man in terms of camera work and photorealism, blending seamlessly with the directorial style of Whedon in the first place, making it feel a part of the film and thus more real, which should be the aim of all CG. The action sequences are incredible. I may have mentioned this quickly before, but they truly are spectacular, especially one sequence in which River takes on a bar full of people by herself. .

Serenity Is a fantastically entertaining film which should, if all goes to plan, propel much of the cast into instant fame. And all hail Nathan Fillion. .

Defining Scene: .

Mal investigates Inara's cry for help, and gets more than he bargained. That or the climactic scene with River and Mal and the crew all fighting different enemies.