Mortal Engines (2018)

Mortal Engines (2018)

2018 128 Minutes

Science Fiction

Set in a world many thousands of years in the future. Earth’s cities now roam the globe on huge wheels, devouring each other in a struggle for ever diminishing resources. On one of these massive...

Overall Rating

5 / 10
Verdict: So-So

User Review

  • Mortal Engines immediately breaks down but eventually picks up a speed boost. Adapted from Reeve's YA steampunk novel, "Mad Max's Moving Castle" is a visual splendour. Packing mechanical rhythms throughout the mobile empire of London and building a dense world based on history where 'Despicable Me' Minions are viewed as deities (I kid you not...). But beneath the petrol fumes is a shell that lacks substance, characterisation and underdeveloped subplots, making this moving city a static settlement. In a dystopian world where "predator" cities prey on small settlements, a fugitive assassin attempts to gain vengeance on the man who killed her mother. For a young adult film, and Satan knows there are many (too many), this is one of the better adaptations. A directorial debut for Rivers, who closely works with Jackson as a visual effects supervisor, where he manages to visualise a world that is packed with intuitive lore. There is an impressive sense of scale to be had with these motorised cities, particularly London, that creates for some awe-inspiring backdrops. However, all good things must come to an end and whilst the art department exceeded expectations, the screenplay writers and actors should be extradited.

    The story has no personality and predominantly consists of exposition, either through flashbacks or blatantly telling the audience. The characters themselves resemble tools rather that actual individuals. The Anti-Traction League members had no drive. Shaw lacked intent. Natsworthy was irritating. And the forced romance between them was predictably manufactured. Surprisingly, Valentine and Shrike were the only well developed characters, and they were the antagonists. Aside from Weaving and Jihae, the acting was weak. Sheehan did not suit the clumsy heroic role in the slightest and Hilmar didn't make an impression. Could've been replaced by anyone. Though there are some interests to be had passed the halfway mark.

    The "Municipal Darwinism" philosophy was interesting and made for some political reflections in our current society. The score boomed out epic compositions. But the saviour of this frequently boring flick is its third act. Once all the world building and character relationships have been established, the film just lets itself become genuine popcorn entertainment. I was able to let myself go, sink into my chair and watch the colossal carnage ensue. What started off as a terribly monotonous affair soon became this piece of entertainment that only just overcame the mediocrity that preceded it. There are faults. Many faults. But there is still fuel left in this post-apocalyptic tank.