A man is drafted to fight in a future war where the fate of humanity relies on his ability to confront his past.
Director: Chris McKay
Cast: Chris Pratt, Yvonne Strahovski, J. K. Simmons, Betty Gilpin, Sam Richardson, Mary Lynn Rajskub
Release Date: July 2, 2021
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, language and some suggestive references.
Runtime: 2h 20min
Review:
The Tomorrow War, not to be confused with fantastic novel The Forever War by Joe Haldeman, is a hodgepodge of recycled parts that delivers a capable if forgettable sci-fi film. Director Chris McKay seems to be channeling Starship Troopers sans the satire by way of early 2000s Michael Bay. It’s a loud dumb movie that throws out some intriguing ideas but decides to go for the path of least resistance. The script is filled with clichés seasoned sci-fi fans haven’t seen before so don’t expect the story to surprise you at any turn, it predictable from start to finish. Thankfully, the film isn’t an overly serious or grim affair so there is plenty of fun to be had in some of the film’s larger set pieces even if the CGI varies from top notch to video game cut scene quality. Chris Pratt leads the film as best he can, but you get the feeling he needs somebody to work off in order to deliver his best work. Early in the film, he has nice chemistry with Sam Richardson, but he disappears to the better part of the film. He shares more dramatic moments with Yvonne Strahovsk and he can’t quite sell the emotional connection so your investment in the relationship isn’t nearly as important as it should be. Strahovsk, for her part, delivers solid work with the character being right in her wheelhouse. J.K. Simmons has a small but memorable supporting role, sadly Betty Gilpin is little more than window dressing in her few scenes. The Tomorrow War ultimately ends up being a fun but disposable sci-fi film which is a shame since you get a strong sense that there is a better film somewhere in in the story.
C+
