Tomorrowland: An adventure into a world of originality

In a world of remakes, sequels and reboots… somehow there is Tomorrowland.

Tomorrowland is Disney’s latest attempt to make a new hit blockbuster. It worked out very well for them in 2003 with Pirates of the Caribbean, but not since. This time it’s about a futuristic world called, you guessed it, Tomorrowland. But mostly it’s about a young girl’s journey to get there. And as a favor to you, that’s all I’ll say.

Here’s where I’ll let the cat out of the bag. I loved Tomorrowland. Tomorrowland is very different than most blockbusters because it very much feels like the product of one man’s imagination and voice. That of director Brad Bird. In an age when most blockbusters appear to be money-making machines where studios find some guy to do what they want, I find this movie refreshing. This is an incredibly imaginative, and completely original vision of a man with a story to share. And he shares it with breathtaking skill.

Just to lay my cards on the table, adventure is my favorite genre of film. And Tomorrowland took me on a journey of adventure and discovery. Almost everything about this movie surprised me and filled me with wonder. The actors give their all playing their characters! George Clooney once again proves why he’s a movie star, and he does it by playing against type. He’s grumpy and not suave in any way. It has to be seen to be believed! The action sequences are unusually brilliantly handled and tension filled. There’s more of Brad Bird’s handy work!

I recognize that the message of the film is a bit on the nose. Some (not I) are even saying it’s shoved down your throat. But I really don’t care. I respect that this film has something to say. This film isn’t just concerned with taking your $9 and setting up for a sequel. It doesn’t just want to give you a chance to shut your brain off for two hours. This film wants to change your outlook on life, and for the better. I commend the film for that. It’s not just a money making machine. It’s a man’s vision with a distinct voice to take you on an adventure and even say some things about the world around us. For these reasons, I am thankful this film exists.

The film isn’t perfect. What film is? There’s a bit of a brief pacing issue near the end. Nothing major. But the bottom line is this film is completely original and different and it succeeds at what it set out to do. I couldn’t recommend it higher!