My quick rating - 6,3/10. Worth all the hype? Yes and no. It is a mixed bag that delivers some truly impressive moments but falls short of being an extraordinary film. The most notable aspect is the groundbreaking digital de-aging technology used to create a younger version of Will Smith, reminiscent of his days on the streets of Bel Air. Watching Smith's youthful self engage in intense combat with his older counterpart is visually stunning and a technical marvel. The film revolves around Henry Brogan, an aging assassin, who decides to retire but soon finds himself targeted by a younger clone of himself, 25 years his junior and at the peak of his abilities. This premise sets the stage for a series of high-octane action sequences that are well-directed and thrilling to watch. From the beginning, this was always a pet project for Ang Lee who was determined to push the envelope as far as the technology was concerned. Not only is it filmed in 3-D but also runs at a smooth 120FPS which isn't standard at all for movies. But beyond the cool tech, the flick does touch on intriguing themes surrounding cloning and the ethical dilemmas it presents. However, aside from these brief explorations, the film leans heavily into standard action movie territory. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it makes for an entertaining summer popcorn flick, but it lacks the depth and originality that could have elevated it to something more memorable. Clive Owen, who plays the antagonist, appears disengaged, possibly due to the prolonged filming process. His performance lacks the intensity and charisma needed to make his character compelling. And when you are playing the role of a cross between Frankenstein and G-d you are going to want to give it your full attention. Additionally, the inclusion of an Asian character for comic relief feels like a tired stereotype and falls flat in terms of humor. Still, it excels in its action scenes and the dual performances by Will Smith, but it doesn't fully live up to the high expectations set by its ambitious premise and groundbreaking technology. It's a decent watch for action fans and those interested in the latest advancements in all things as part of the science of film, but it may leave others wanting more in terms of story and character development.
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