Should you watch this at weekday movie ticket prices? Yes.
Should you watch this at weekend movie ticket prices? If you like science fiction.
Score: 3.5/5
Secret ending? No.
Running time: 111 minutes (~2 hours)
“Midnight Special” is a science fiction thriller about Alton, a boy with inexplicable abilities. His father, Roy, has to keep him safe from the government as they race to complete Alton’s quest. It stars Michael Shannon (Roy), Joel Edgerton (Lucas), Kirsten Dunst (Sarah), Adam Driver (Paul Sevier), Sam Shepard (Calvin Meyer), and Jaeden Lieberher (Alton). It is rated PG.
“Midnight Special” emphasises tension and relationships over the loud explosions and hokey costumes that science fiction films of this sort tend to use. It priorities filmmaking over the fantasy aspects, resulting in a movie that has far more merit than just a simple sci-fi flick. Instead, the biggest issue with the film comes from its obstacles, which feel more contrived rather than being real problems.
Highlights
Science fiction elements don’t disappoint
Because it takes the gritty, realistic approach to science fiction, you might think that actual effects would be very muted in comparison to the reactions of the characters around Anton (Jaeden Lieberher). Anton may not display his powers very often, but when he does, the special effects are well done. It all pays off handsomely in the climax, when we get to see the full breadth of what he’s involved in. It’s a pleasant surprise to see a lot of time and effort were invested into the effects.
Parallels with religion and the afterlife
The opening already establishes the theme of faith, with characters openly stating the relationship between Anton’s mysterious powers and religion. But as the film continues, all the characters show subtle signs of faith and trust in Anton, turning his quest into some sort of pilgrimage. It culminates in a confrontation that draws even more parallels with religion.
Good performances by Michael Shannon and Kirsten Dunst
Roy and Sarah (Kirsten Dunst) play parents who are tremendously stressed by a boy that’s obviously more powerful than them, but still has the same sort of limitations and vulnerabilities that they do. Add the fact that they’re being hunted by the authorities, and you have a set of parents who find their love and trust being tested beyond belief. They’re convincing as parents of an unknown quantity, and the fact that they still push on makes them even more admirable.
Letdowns
Antagonists are non-threatening
Adam Driver doesn’t do the conflicted antagonist archetype very well, if at all. As Paul Sevier, he’s never a threat, whether it be by physical strength or authority, and this doesn’t work for the story. The authorities are clearly no match for Anton, so it’s curious why he has to go on the run the way he does. They are unnecessary obstacles, and more time could have been devoted to exploring Anton’s powers.
Lack of exposition
The film lacks the hows and the whys of Anton, instead choosing to focus on the what. While that’s sufficient information to go on in the beginning, it leads you to believe that a fuller explanation will be provided later in the story. It doesn’t happen, leaving you feeling slightly cheated as it ends.
“Midnight Special” is an interesting film that focuses on character, while still respecting the genre that it’s in.
“Midnight Special” opens in cinemas 21 April, 2016 (Thursday).
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