Film Review: Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon: Part One - A Child of Fire (Netflix)

 Genre: action/adventure/ Drama

Cert: R-rated

Director: Zack Snyder 

Screenwriter: Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad, Shay Hatten

Starring: Sofia Boutella, Djimon Hounsou, Ed Skrein, Michiel Huisman, Bae Doona, Ray Fisher, Charlie Hunnam,  Anthony Hopkins, Staz Nair, Fra Fee, Cleopatra Coleman, Stuart Martin, Ingvar Sigurdsson, Alfonso Herrera, Cary Elwes, Rhian Rees, E. Duffy, Jena Malone

Running time: 2HR 13M 

Parents are advised to read before viewing the film as some scenes may contain scenes unsuitable for younger viewers.

Sex & Nudity: Sexual assault, sexual material, and partial nudity.

No sexual scenes. Just some male nudity and some muscle showing.

Some mild and loose gay innuendos.

Violence & Gore: Frequent and brutal.

A young girl is sexually assaulted and is about to get raped. The main character comes to save her and kills a few soldiers. The violence is brutal, with a little bit of blood.

Profanity: No F words.

Mild and funny swear words such as 'a-hole'.

Alcohol/drugs: MILD

Frightening/Intense Scenes: Brutal and unexpected violence, with intense, violent fight scenes. In addition, a handful of science fiction battles with lightsabers and scary alien-like characters.

Story: When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, Kora (Sofia Boutella), a mysterious stranger living among the villagers, becomes their best hope for survival. Tasked with finding trained fighters who will unite with her in making an impossible stand against the Mother World, Kora assembles a small band of warriors - outsiders, insurgents, peasants and orphans of war from different worlds who share a common need for redemption and revenge. As the shadow of an entire Realm bears down on the unlikeliest of moons, a battle over the fate of a galaxy is waged, and in the process, a new army of heroes is formed.

Review: Rebel Moon: Part One - A Child of Fire" ignites the screen with a visual extravaganza, showcasing Zack Snyder's cinematic prowess. The film's strengths lie in its stunning visuals, epic world-building, and a blend of action and emotion. Snyder's unique directorial style is on full display, creating a captivating sci-fi epic.

Visually, the film is a masterpiece. Snyder's knack for crafting breathtaking scenes and using visuals to tell a story is evident throughout. The grandeur of the sci-fi world, coupled with meticulously designed set pieces, immerses the audience in a universe rich with detail. Cinematography and special effects work hand-in-hand to deliver a spectacle that's both visually impressive and narratively engaging.

The cast delivers commendable performances, with characters that are both relatable and compelling. The emotional core of the story is well-supported by the actors, particularly the protagonist who evolves into a symbol of resilience. The film successfully balances character-driven moments with adrenaline-pumping action sequences.

Action aficionados will find much to appreciate in the film's intense and well-choreographed fight scenes. Snyder's signature slow-motion style adds a distinct flair, enhancing the impact of key moments. The accompanying soundtrack, a Snyder trademark, complements the action, creating a visceral experience that resonates with viewers.

However, "Rebel Moon: Part One" is not without its challenges. The ambitious world-building, while visually stunning, may overwhelm some audiences, potentially diluting the impact of the central narrative. The film's runtime is substantial, and at times, the pacing may feel uneven, impacting the overall flow of the story.

Additionally, Snyder's penchant for visual spectacle might overshadow character development for some viewers. Certain plot elements, while intriguing, may lack the depth needed to fully resonate. Striking a balance between the grandiosity of the world and the intimate journeys of the characters proves to be a delicate task.

Overall:  In conclusion, "Rebel Moon: Part One - A Child of Fire" stands as a testament to Zack Snyder's cinematic vision. The film offers a feast for the eyes, blending stunning visuals with intense action and emotional depth. While it grapples with the challenges of ambitious world-building and pacing, the overall experience is a thrilling ride that will leave audiences eagerly anticipating the next instalment in this promising sci-fi saga.

Rating:  5 out of 5  for entertainment /  9 out of  10 for an intelligent film