Movie Review -- Oblivion

Today I saw Tom Cruise's new movie Oblivion. For those of you who don't know, Cruise plays Jack Harper who, along with his partner Victoria (Andrea Riseborough), is tasked with maintaining security drones on Earth following an alien invasion. However, like any good sci-fi, all is not as it appears, and Harper must figure out what secrets are being kept from him with the help of Beech (Morgan Freeman) and Julia (Olga Kurylenko).

Story-wise, it's somewhat predictable (I had the mystery unraveled early on), although it does throw a few curve balls at us. I found Cruise's character sympathetic and easy to root for, while Freeman comes off as a much older Morpheus from the Matrix (interpret that as you will). The plot doesn't really rev up until close to the end, though. Still, the movie has heart, which is what I like.

Visually, Oblivion is impressive. I especially liked the stylistic use of lighting to sell the concept of an alien Earth. The CG effects are pretty good as well.

So if you're looking for a sci-fi movie that will blow your mind, Oblivion isn't it. Nevertheless, it is an enjoyable popcorn flick with some emotional weight.