Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Fresh Take - Rebel Moon Part One: A Child of Fire Spoiler-Free Thoughts

 Available on NetFlix



Synopsis (from IMDB):

When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, Kora, 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.

Thoughts

If you read the synopsis and you're saying to yourself, 'hey that sounds a lot like Seven Samurai', or the american version The Magnificent Seven. Well that's because its a lot like that, especially in this film. The film borrows a lot from Star Wars and Seven Samurai while trying to be its own thing. If you know anything about Zack Synder the man knows how to make a movie look visually stunning. Rebel Moon is no different, I loved the look of the movie. The planets all looked unique the aliens and creatures looked very well done.  For the most part I didn't mind the dialogue, it never really felt hokey or forced during any parts of the film. I even liked the themes of the film as well. I cannot forget about the action. The action in this film is pretty good, I didn't mind the choreography. By now if you have seen any of Synder's previous works then you know what to expect as far as that is concerned.

The main problem that I have with this film is that it feels like there was a lot missing. There are a few scenes where it felt like there should have been more there. I am wondering if this film is getting a Director's Cut because I am thinking it could use one. Also, I know that use of slo-mo is a Synder staple but he goes way overboard in my opinion with its use. There are a couple of fight scenes where it felt like it was slo-mo every 30 seconds and then there would be a brief pause and back into slo-mo. It got to a point where it became noticable and it really started to get on my nerves. The main villain of this film felt very one dimensional I am hoping that they go into his story and motivations in the next one because I like the actor that portrays him, Ed Skrein. 

For Parents

This movie is rated PG-13 and it has a 2 hr and 15 minute runtime. The movie is paced well and nothing really drags, outside of the gratuitous slo-mo shots. There isn't any gore and blood for that matter now that I think about it. There is, however, a sexual assault scene you see the aftermath of it in the trailer. There is a lot of action here so keep that in mind.

Final Thoughts

This movie is perfect for Netflix and streaming services. I am glad also that a part two was already announced and is coming in April of 2024. That being said if I had to give this a rating it would probably be a RENTAL. It can be a fun movie but personally, I feel there are story beats missing and unfortunately there are movies that it is paying homage to that have done what they're trying to do better in my opinion. That doesn't mean I'm not looking forward to part two as this film does some interesting things it just didn't blow my mind. Have you seen Rebel Moon Part ONE: A Child of Fire? What did you think? Leave a comment and let's talk about it. Thanks for reading. Please share the blog if you like it and don't forget to comment. 

Trailer



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