In the realm of science fiction cinema, creativity often knows no bounds. “65,” the brainchild of Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the masterminds behind “A Quiet Place,” promised to be an exhilarating science fiction action thriller. Featuring the notable talents of Adam Driver and Ariana Greenblatt as its lead actors, the movie garnered attention for its ambitious storyline. This review delves into the heart of “65,” examining its premise, execution, character development, and overall impact.
Unveiling the Intriguing Premise
At its core, “65” introduces an enthralling concept—a spaceship hurtles through time and crashes onto prehistoric Earth. With the backdrop of the Cretaceous period, an extraterrestrial human, portrayed by Adam Driver, faces the challenge of survival. Complicating matters further, he becomes the guardian of a non-English-speaking child, played by Ariana Greenblatt. The stage is set for an intense struggle against both the hostile environment and the formidable creatures of the past.
65: Missed Opportunities in Execution
However, the film falls short of fully realizing its captivating premise. One glaring issue lies in the portrayal of the survival journey. Adam Driver’s character, armed with advanced weaponry, eliminates threats with ease. This lack of tension diminishes the potential for a gripping survival narrative. The absence of vulnerability raises questions about the film’s missed opportunities—a more challenging journey devoid of technological advantages could have heightened engagement.
Visual Effects and Dinosaur Potential
The film’s visual effects, a crucial element in conveying the prehistoric setting, unfortunately, fail to consistently impress. Instances of poorly rendered dinosaurs detract from the immersive experience the movie aims to provide. Moreover, “65” introduces a variety of dinosaur species, tantalizing audiences with the prospect of awe-inspiring encounters. Yet, the film squanders this potential, leaving viewers yearning for more substantial interactions with these magnificent creatures.
Lack of Character Development
One of the film’s notable shortcomings lies in its character development. Inadequate information is provided about the four central characters, particularly the protagonists. While fleeting moments shed light on Adam Driver’s character, Mills, the depth of his personality remains largely unexplored. The narrative briefly justifies his decision to embark on the space expedition, neglecting crucial aspects of his identity.
Ariana Greenblatt’s character, Koa, fares even worse in terms of development. The audience is deprived of insights into her background, her home planet, and the circumstances that led to her presence on Earth. Tragedy strikes as her parents perish post-crash, yet the film fails to delve into the emotional aftermath of this loss. Consequently, the characters come across as mere vessels, lacking the emotional resonance necessary for audience connection.
A Mediocre Culmination
“65” occupies a middle ground in the spectrum of cinematic experiences. While it isn’t the year’s worst offering, its flaws hinder it from achieving greatness. Moments of entertainment are scattered throughout the narrative, but the film’s overall execution and shallow character portrayal undermine its potential. For enthusiasts of dinosaurs, it might hold some appeal, though others are likely to find it forgettable. The lack of resonance makes it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend the movie. However, individual preferences vary, so there’s room for diverse perspectives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “65” emerges as a tale of untapped potential. The initial promise of an extraterrestrial survival story in prehistoric times captivates the imagination, but the execution falls short of expectations. A more immersive journey devoid of technological conveniences could have amplified the tension. Moreover, the characters’ lack of depth hampers emotional engagement. “65” serves as a reminder that while concepts can be captivating, their successful execution relies on a holistic approach that encompasses storytelling, character development, and visual prowess.
