Geostorm is a sci-fi disaster movie that envisions a world where climate-control satellites, designed to prevent natural disasters, go haywire, causing catastrophic weather events across the globe. Jake Lawson (Gerard Butler), a satellite designer, must race against time to stop a global disaster triggered by sabotage.
Highlights:
- Spectacle: The film delivers on large-scale, visually impressive disaster sequences, including tsunamis, lightning storms, and freezing cities. These scenes are a treat for fans of CGI-heavy blockbusters.
- Premise: The idea of controlling Earth’s weather through technology is intriguing, with potential for exploring themes of hubris and the dangers of over-reliance on technology.
- Action-Packed: The narrative maintains a fast pace, mixing action sequences with an espionage subplot.
Criticism:
- Clichéd Plot: The storyline is formulaic, with predictable twists and stereotypical characters. The dialogue often leans on cheesy one-liners and forced drama.
- Underdeveloped Themes: The film touches on topics like climate change and political corruption but fails to explore them meaningfully, focusing more on action than depth.
- Unrealistic Science: Even by disaster-movie standards, the depiction of satellite technology and global weather phenomena stretches credibility.
Reception:
Critics largely panned Geostorm, with a 16% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviews criticized its lack of originality and reliance on spectacle over substance. However, audiences seeking a mindless, entertaining disaster movie found it enjoyable.
Conclusion:
Geostorm is a visually engaging, albeit shallow, sci-fi disaster film. It’s perfect for those who enjoy over-the-top action and don’t mind suspending disbelief, but it may disappoint viewers looking for a thoughtful or innovative story.
