June 8, 2012 by Vinnie Leduc
This is what (the best) movies are all about. Even if you weren’t as excited as I was, they nevertheless grab you like a facehugger and then take you on an edge-of-your-seat ride so captivating that you never wonder how much time is left while watching. Instead, you hope that it doesn’t end. In Prometheus, you want to know what happens next and what answers may be ultimately revealed, but on the other hand you don’t want the thrilling experience to come to a close.
Prometheus isn’t just an awesome slam-bang summer blockbuster (such as The Avengers) though. Like The Grey, it touches upon themes of faith and survival. But the scope of Prometheus is much grander; the title of the movie is the first clue to that. It’s an incendiary tale that dares to seek the biggest questions of humankind and on the journey, it tackles some of the deepest and most stressful themes of humanity. These profound undertones coursing through Prometheus’ veins comprise the true blood of the film. The many expertly constructed parallels running throughout the movie’s characters, events, and relationships subconsciously resonate with the audience, essentially making the viewer a character aboard Prometheus.
Despite this uncommon achievement and having been entirely shot in 3D, Prometheus didn’t feel like it too often. Many parts of Prometheus did pop, but they did not necessarily pop out. I can overlook this minor point because maybe I was just too locked into the movie and engaged in the plot. In addition, plenty of times the 3D was hard not to notice, especially when it showcased the advanced technology that’s a credible projection of our own rapidly evolving generation’s. Every electronic interface, HUD, or computer screen not only looks amazing and astonishing, but could conceivably exist without much stretch in the next century. This is a typical sci-fi element that’s presented perfectly in Prometheus.
Noomi Rapace may very well be the new Ripley. Although considerable effort has been made by Scott to deter inevitable comparisons between the two, Rapace’s Dr. Elizabeth Shaw is undoubtedly another fierce and strong female protagonist. And speaking of fierce females, how about Charlize Theron? It’s great to see her back on the silver screen just a week after gracing it with such sexy power in Snow White and the Huntsman. Oh, and Michael Fassbender’s performance? Boss. That’s the first time I’ve even used the word “boss” like that.
To say that Prometheus held my interest is a vast understatement. It was as if the movie had grabbed me by the throat and yanked me in closer to the big screen. Nothing since Lost, which co-writer Damon Lindelof co-created, has had me so hooked, and nothing since Lost or The Matrix has been as mind-blowing and equally mind-effing as Prometheus. There’s been tons of speculation on whether the movie is a prequel, remake, reboot, or counterpart of Alien. All I’ve gotta say there is I loved the way it connects to the Alien franchise.
It seems like everybody I saw this with had a similar experience that I did, and I truly hope everybody who sees this movie does, too. Prometheus makes you wonder, think, and ask… thrill, entertain, and surprise. That’s why I’ve kept this as spoiler-free as possible and won’t get into the details of the story. The last thing I’ll tease you with is that Prometheus contains one of the most intense and unforgettable sequences of all time. If you’ve seen it, you know what part I’m alluding to. Whatever you might’ve seen in any TV spots, trailers, or viral marketing is enough if you haven’t seen Prometheus. Just go see it. It’s a must-watch that I’m certainly going to re-watch as soon as I can. The terrifying and thought-provoking trip is an instant classic that deserves a spot next to Ridley Scott’s Alien in the director’s return to his young roots, and there could be more to come, so make sure you stay for the extra after the credits. Prometheus gets 5 out of 5 stars or A+ or Masterpiece.
