With the possible exception of horror, sci-fi is the most aggressively self-cannibalising film genre in existence. Just take a look at the first official trailer for Life, about an International Space Station crew who discover organic extraterrestrial matter on the surface of Mars. At first glance it almost looks like a rip-off of various deep-space science fiction touchstones. On closer inspection, however, it looks exactly like a rip-off of various deep-space science fiction touchstones, namely 2001: A Space Odyssey, Alien and Event Horizon (we’ll end it there, but we could go on…).
Given how many films have previously struck a chord by exploring the emotional and psychological consequences of discovering alien life in outer space, it’s no surprise to see this one follow suit. But wouldn’t it be refreshing to see a slightly more original take on the subject? Alas, it seems that director Daniel Espinosa, along with writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, has no such intention. Much will depend on the film’s A-list cast bringing their A-game, with Jake Gyllenhaal, Ryan Reynolds and Rebecca Ferguson the ones making this landmark discovery in human history this time around. Take a look for yourself and have your say @LWLies
Life is scheduled for release May 2017.
Published 31 Oct 2016
By Lara C Cory
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Little White Lies was established in 2005 as a bi-monthly print magazine committed to championing great movies and the talented people who make them. Combining cutting-edge design, illustration and journalism, we’ve been described as being “at the vanguard of the independent publishing movement.” Our reviews feature a unique tripartite ranking system that captures the different aspects of the movie-going experience. We believe in Truth & Movies.
