Pandorum: A Movie Review

Director: Christian Alvert.

Writer: Travis Milloy.

Pandorum from director Christian Alvert and writer Travis Milloy is a 2009 sci-fi thriller that takes place in the heart of the unknown and the picture is a solid action and character study both rolled in one. The actor's performances are on key in intensity and first hour of film does not take the edge off as mysterious creatures dart in and out of scenes. A suitable film for those with an ache for a heartattack, or those interested in a well written story Pandorum will satisfy those fans looking for something exciting!

Pandorum begins with a back story of how the earth becomes overpopulated, experiences famine, and water shortages, then the film moves ahead to focus on the characters Bower (Ben Foster), and Payton (Dennis Quaid) Both Bower and Payton look to solve a power supply problem on a ship that is the last hope for mankind. Right from the get go when Bower is released from his hyper-sleep pod the excitement begins as he twists his way through dark tunnels that look like something out of a nightmare only to find most of the crew from the ship dead, or slightly changed. Bower then fights for his life for most of the remainder of the film while gathering a motley crew of survivors as he attempts to recharge an aging reactor, which is about to meltdown.

High in intensity and solid in action some minor characters are introduced in Pandorum at the mid way mark, but the film is centrally focused on the lead characters Payton and Bower, who both have troubled pasts. Rather than give away too much from the antagonists, of which there are more than one, or from the plot let us just say that there are a few nice twists in the film. So, of course there are some great action scenes as Manh played by Cung Le displays martial art skills along with Antje Traue as character Nadia. As well, there is some recognition on the part of Bower about who he truly is after losing most of his identity to hyper-sleep, which makes the film interesting on a couple of levels as the film develops the story.

One of the greater enjoyments of the film is the intensity that builds from the beginning of the film all the way to the end with a climax that will leave most viewers surprised. Truly the film is like something out of one's worst nightmare as most of the initial action takes place in the dark; as well, things seem to take an even nastier turn as some of the characters turn on each other for survival. A dramatic plot that unfolds as a sharp knife does when it is unsheathed Pandorum will keep most viewer's on edge as the film shows little regard for those weak of heart.

Still in theatres and hosting some of the strongest actors and creators in the biz' Pandorum is a must see by those with an interest in the sci-fi, horror, thriller, or dramatic genres. A remarkable film with some well-written intense action scenes Pandorum must be seen by anyone with a love for creative visuals and unique storylines. Don't miss your opportnity to see this in the theatres!

Acting/believability/persona: 7.5.
Story/writing/plot development: 8.
Theme/tone/pacing/structure: 7.75.
Overall: 7.75 Screaming Banshees from Hell out of 10!