"THE TIME MACHINE"
Review
Do you believe in fate?
That is the main theme in this remake of the 1960's film based on an H.G.
Wells classic about a man who invents a time machine.
However, in the original film, the focus was more on the changes and evolution
of man throughout time. This time, the focus is directed at the concept of
fate.
Simon Wells (Guy Pearce-"L.A. Confidential") has invented a time machine, and following a personal tragedy, he decides to go back in time to change it. However, fate thwarts him, leaving him to wonder why he is unable to change the past. But nonetheless, he continues trying, but his invention gains an attitude and shoots him into the future….WAY into the future, like 800,000+ years.
Yep, yikes. BIG YIKES.
But, like the original film, one of the more exciting and amusing aspects
is that he is able to watch the evolution of man and the planet while sitting
uneffected in the time machine.
Then, when he finally 'lands' in the distant future, he comes to learn that
there have been some major 'changes' to the planet and its people, changes
that not only cause him to adapt to, but cause him to realize the nature
of man (and animals).
And while he may not be able to change the past, he finds he may be able
to change the FUTURE, and with that he is able to make things better for
tomorrow.
Though the film preached about fate, I felt it could have spent more time on it. Instead, it chose to rush through it and spend more time and money on the f/x. Also, when I watch a movie whose intention is to discuss a profound theme (such as fate), I'd prefer that it take its time in discussing that theme as opposed to having one character give a long speech explaining that theme….and towards the end.
The point of cinema is explain or show something CINEMATICALLY. If I wanted a speech or lecture, I'd sign up for philosophy class.
The concepts were there but were completely overshadowed by the f/x.
Plus, and this is possibly just me, but the problem I have always had with the "Time Machine" movies is the limitations they pose on themselves. They are depicting a man who has this machine at his disposal, a machine which so much potential to go ANYWHERE in time. Therefore, I have the desire to watch that person have a field day with it and go EVERYWHERE all over time. I want to see the various points in time, his reaction and the people's reactions to him.
My Grade: C+