After Earth (2013) Movie Review
A Sci-Fi Adventure with High Ambitions but Mixed Execution
After Earth (2013) is a science fiction adventure film directed by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith. Set in a distant future where humanity has abandoned Earth, the film explores themes of survival, fear, and father-son dynamics. While it boasts impressive visuals and a compelling premise, After Earth received mixed reviews due to its uneven execution and lack of emotional depth.
Plot Summary
The story is set in the year 3071, long after humans have fled Earth due to cataclysmic events. Humanity now resides on a distant planet called Nova Prime, where they face a new threat from alien creatures known as Ursas, which can sense fear.
Cypher Raige (Will Smith) is a legendary General in the Ranger Corps, revered for his fearless combat skills. His son, Kitai Raige (Jaden Smith), is a young cadet eager to follow in his father’s footsteps but struggles with his own fears and insecurities. To bond with his son, Cypher takes Kitai on a routine mission, but their spaceship is damaged by an asteroid storm, forcing them to crash-land on the now-dangerous Earth.
With Cypher critically injured, Kitai must venture across the perilous landscape to retrieve a distress beacon from the tail section of their ship, which landed miles away. Along the way, Kitai faces various challenges, including hostile wildlife, rapidly changing climates, and his own inner demons. Guided by his father’s remote instructions, Kitai embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery.
Performance and Direction
Will Smith delivers a restrained performance as Cypher Raige, portraying a stoic and emotionally distant father. His character’s lack of outward emotion is intended to highlight his mastery over fear, but it also results in a performance that feels somewhat detached and lacks the charisma typically associated with Smith.
Jaden Smith takes center stage as Kitai, with the film largely focusing on his character’s development. Jaden’s performance has moments of genuine emotion, particularly in scenes that highlight Kitai’s vulnerability and determination. However, the film’s script and direction often limit his ability to fully showcase his acting range.
Director M. Night Shyamalan brings his signature visual style to the film, creating a visually captivating depiction of a post-apocalyptic Earth. The lush, overgrown landscapes and dangerous creatures are rendered with impressive special effects, creating an immersive setting. However, Shyamalan’s direction struggles with pacing and tone, resulting in a film that feels uneven and at times, overly simplistic.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Peter Suschitzky captures the beauty and danger of the film’s setting. The use of wide shots and sweeping landscapes emphasizes the vastness of the environment and Kitai’s isolation. The film’s visual effects are a standout feature, with realistic CGI creatures and environments that enhance the sense of peril and wonder.
Special effects play a crucial role in bringing the post-apocalyptic Earth to life. The Ursas, with their ability to sense fear, are menacing antagonists, and the various creatures Kitai encounters are designed to evoke both awe and terror. The film’s action sequences are well-executed, though some may find them lacking in intensity compared to other sci-fi adventure films.
Themes and Messages
After Earth explores themes of fear, courage, and the bond between father and son. The film’s central message revolves around overcoming fear and the idea that fear is a choice. Cypher’s teachings to Kitai about mastering fear are intended to inspire and empower, though the execution of these themes can feel heavy-handed at times.
The father-son dynamic is at the heart of the film, with Kitai’s journey serving as both a literal and metaphorical path to earning his father’s respect and proving his worth. The film attempts to balance action with emotional depth, though it sometimes struggles to fully develop the characters and their relationships.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, After Earth received mixed to negative reviews from critics. Many praised the film’s visual effects and ambitious premise but criticized its lack of emotional engagement and inconsistent pacing. The performances of Will and Jaden Smith were also met with mixed reactions, with some critics feeling that the father-son duo’s real-life relationship did not translate effectively on screen.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in America, After Earth is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple TV: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental or purchase.
Conclusion
After Earth (2013) is a visually stunning sci-fi adventure that aspires to blend action, emotion, and philosophical themes. While it succeeds in creating an immersive and dangerous post-apocalyptic world, its execution falters due to uneven pacing and a lack of emotional depth. The performances by Will and Jaden Smith, combined with M. Night Shyamalan’s direction, result in a film that is intriguing yet flawed.
For those interested in a visually rich sci-fi journey with a focus on survival and personal growth, After Earth is worth a watch. It is readily available on various streaming platforms, offering an accessible viewing experience for fans of the genre.
