Review of Upside Down (2012) by Sel G — 23 May 2013

Even though many critics have shared that this film didn't deliver enough for them in terms on the story-line (and I can't disagree with them on such statements), it still deserves tons of praise in so many aspects. The film starts out slowly but over time delves into an incredible, mind-boggling and unique story of two fantastical worlds. There are definitely some holes in the movie's plot and some events progress too quickly and without much explanation. But the videography and the cinematic artistry alone makes the film complete eye candy with each scene, that is definitely worth two hours of your time, to escape into another universe.

The storyline unfortunately was mostly about the two main characters Adam and Eden's Romeo and Juliet-esque eternal, star-crossed, but unwavering love for each other (and what a love thats is!). It is forbidden because they come from the two different planets, one up top and one down below, with each planet having its own dispositions and biases. In this sense, the film definitely has a political tone as well, which is drawn from real life similarities, such as the North Hemisphere and the South Hemisphere in our world. I'd like to have seen the story more developed in that regard. And maybe I was expecting something more fantastical related to the topic of social justice throughout the move also (not that there is a huge lack of it). Certain changes in the plot happen too quickly as well and without enough build for me.

However, it is still a beautiful film! I personally loved it and will watch it again. If you like sci-fi and/or romance, don't pass up the chance to see this movie.

The acting is really well done! another slam-dunk for Jim Sturgess, who is amazing as always. He's just an incredibly talented artist and so effortlessly becomes every character he plays. Kirsten Dunst, also, is such a talented and versatile actress and showcases those qualities so well in Upside Down. The actors in the supporting roles too, put on unquestionably great performances.

So I'd say, don't go into watching it with super high expectations and I can promise the movie will surprise you. There's no question of whether it's worth watching. I know it succeeded in thoroughly entertaining me and pulling me into another reality. And what more can I really ask for?

It was also nice to see Jim Sturgess play opposite Timothy Spall again. He is a legendary actor in the U.K., who portrayed Sturgess' father in the movie Heartless in 2009, which is another unique and great film of a completely different genre that I'd totally recommend. They have really good on-screen chemistry.