2012

Went to see 2012 at the cinema earlier this week. Strangely, I quite like disaster movies, especially now that CGI can create such amazing images and realistic effects. Couple this with the fact that I have had a crush on John Cusack since back in the day, this film seemed like a safe bet. I had heard some rather conflicting reviews of it, however. The majority seemed to be saying that the budget had all gone on the special effects, leaving very little for plot or script. I think the fact that I went prepared for the film to be all action and no trousers (so to speak) probably stood me in good stead. Yes, the effects are AMAZING, but quite frankly the entire storyline (I don't think I can even call it a plot), the characterisation and the dialogue was downright abysmal. I'm not even sure I know where to begin in describing the sheer badness of it all, but perhaps best to limit myself to a few choice selections:

the American bias of the film (shouldn't really have expected anything less)

the sloppy morals (Russian oligarch dies=greed is bad)

the over-abundance of movie clichés (small dog surviving, last minute resolutions)

the verging-on-racist stereotypes

unrealistic character actions and reactions

So, go and see it by all means, but just don't go expecting any moral or philosophical revelations. Just enjoy the massive tidal waves, the collapsing buildings and the general destruction of planet earth. Oh, and John Cusack, if possible, improves with age ;)