Going in to the film, I had my doubts. The dizzying ad campaign here in the UK had more or less put me off it, but it didn't take long for Wright's charismatic, quick cut direction to work its charm on me. He is well known for his often blatant references of cult films, and this time its computer games. From Mario to Street Fighter, there are plenty to keep you interested and laughing as you recognise music and catchphrases. Any film in which a character plays the bass line from Final Fantasy 2 gets my thumbs up. The direction is so fun and the sense of humour is so loveable (despite Michael Cera's one trick pony acting), it will more than likely entertain. Though it was difficult for me to look past the direction, the script is tight and well written. The ensemble cast members work well and never intrude or outstay their welcome, and though the soppy love story would usually be a turn off, there's enough good to divert your attention from it.
There's no denying this film has a niche. It's you're not looking for a fairytale geek-fest for geeks to geek-out to, then it will probably be a big turn off. If you're not in the loop, then it will leave you behind. However, I can say that being one of the target audience, this has to be one of the most entertaining films of the year, and a misunderstood commercial failure.
8/10
There was some online hype for it, as well as the trailers, but for me the film still sort of came out of nowhere, mainly because who knew Wright's style would fit with an American/Canadian setting,
ReplyDeletebut it did and we have this amazing Gem of a picture that captures the essence of our generation.
I must have just been overtly receptive to it. It seemed like every Bus, every sign, every poster I saw around town was for this film for about three weeks. It was mental.
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