Prometheus: Film Review
June 11, 2012
By: Laura Brown
One of the biggest hyped blockbusters of this summer is Ridley Scott’s latest sci-fi creation, Prometheus. With the shadow of his previous work hanging over it, there was a lot to live up to.
Set first in the year 2089 and then jumping forward to 2093, the film is centres around a search for the origins of life on earth after archaeologists find what they believe to be an invitation from visitors from another planet.
The overall plot of the film is quite similar to that of many other science fiction films; a team of scientists and archaeologists set off to visit an alien planet and discover the truth about it and the origins of earth however one of the crew has an alterer motive, which ultimately leaves most of the crew from the ship dead. A plot which may remind audiences of Scott’s film Alien, adding to arguments that Prometheus is a prequel to it.
One particular scene in which the lead character, Elizabeth Shaw, removes an alien baby from inside her may remind audiences of ‘that scene’ in Alien. The ending of the film adds to this even more and could almost be a short trailer for the film.
The film itself is a little over two hours long and although the plot is very familiar, your attention is held due to Scott’s ability to build tension through clever camera work and lighting as well as the images of vast and detailed landscapes juxtaposed with the dark and small tunnels explored by the crew. A scene where some crew members are trying to outrun a storm, which they they get caught in, shows off the ability that Scott has to immerse viewers into the action.
Whilst the film is visually spectacular and the plot in places is quite strong, overall I was left undecided in my reaction. I was not disappointed by the film however it did leave some questions unanswered, which I won’t reveal so not to spoil the plot details. It did however leave the possibility for a sequel to be created though it could also be left and Alien could be the sequel.
If you like science fiction and Scott’s previous work, I would recommend seeing Prometheus, just maybe lower your expectations.
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About the Author
Media & Journalism student studying in Preston, originally from Worcester....
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