Jupiter Ascending (REVIEW)

written by Heather Finley (@heatherfinley)

It’s not going to be as good as The Matrix.  Channing Tatum can’t act.  The plot looks like too much to cram in one movie.

Did I cover your complaints about Jupiter Ascending?

Good. Now let’s talk about why this space opera is a must see.

Jupiter Ascending tells the story of Jupiter, played by Mila Kunis, an unremarkable human that gets thrown an international sibling rivalry with stakes higher then she could ever imagine. With Caine, played by Channing Tatum, at her side she struggles to find out who she is and save everyone she has ever known.  The movie was written, produced, and directed by Lana and Andy Wachowski who are best known for movies like The Matrix and V for Vendetta.

a real world girl plunged into a fantastical space struggle

First off, this movie visually is absolutely stunning.  From the special effects to the makeup, everything is a feast for the eyes.  I’m betting plenty of people have no complaints about Tatum’s lack of shirt. The aliens are pretty awesome and very much reminded me of Star Wars.   Plus there are tons of explosions.  Who doesn’t love stuff blowing up?

tense dinner conversations?

World building was another particularly strong part of the film.  The reason for the siblings being at odds is explained.  Why Earth is important makes sense.  Jupiter’s importance makes for an interesting piece of intergalactic lore. 

Speaking of Jupiter, seeing Kunis as a lead role was fun.  She was a strong character but still had a sweet personality.  Her awkward romantic advances were completely relatable and although silly, worth a laugh.  Throughout the movie she makes mistakes and learns from them, which is great character development to see in a single movie.  Channing isn’t going to win any awards as Caine but hell, he played a pretty damn good genetically engineered military lycan. 

elaborate costuming abound

Plot wise, there were many points things seemed to skip ahead without explanation.  Things didn’t always make sense all the way.  Honestly, I felt like this movie plot wise was very similar to a YA novel.  It may have not been perfect but it was entertaining.   I’d liken it to movies like Twilight, Hunger Games, or I Am Number Four.

it's say saying the title of the movie IN the movie

Want another reasons why you should go see Jupiter Ascending?  Um, what else are you going to go see right now?  Fifty Shades of Grey?  Do yourself a favor and go have a good time watching a movie that is purely entertaining and will feed into the sci-fi nerd in all of us.