Chappie

IMDB
First time viewed: Yes
Current Release: Yes
Watched With:  Andrew

Neill Blomkamp is up to his old tricks again. I'd read a lot of mixed reviews so I had lower expectations going into this one that I might have otherwise. Because it certainly looks like the kind of film I'd normally enjoy. And in truth I did enjoy it more than I thought I would, most probably thanks to those lowered expectations. 

Chappie, the creation, is a marvel. The detail and amazing compositing that's gone into placing and blending him with the environments is kind of stunning. The big robot, Moose, is a little less believable at the end there. It also doesn't help with the many comparisons to be made with Robocop. But Chappie is great and you never doubt here's there, interacting with the eclectic cast. 

His character is wonderfully adorable as well. I was apprehensive about Die Antwoord but they are both alright. Hugh Jackman is just needed to play a crazy man and Sigourney Weaver is kinda wasted. 

Now, the plot covers a lot of ground and kind of goes all over the place. It certainly keeps things moving but they introduce so many big ideas that remain underdeveloped. If you're going to a fun sci-fi action film you'll probably enjoy it but if you like the ideas behind the sci-fi you'll be left out in the cold with this one. They mainly seem to be there for plot convenience.

It's not as preachy as his last two films, which is nice. It feels lighter because of that. Ultimately I think it's a fun film if you can get onboard with the character. Don't look for anything deeper though, it'll become a bit of a mess.