Jupiter Ascending – Review

It’s been 16 years since The Matrix first exploded onto cinema screens, a pioneering picture that breathed new life into the science fiction genre. Since then, the sibling directors Andy and Lana Wachowski have struggled to emulate that project, with a handful of misfiring endeavours. Regrettably, their latest production Jupiter Ascending follows suit, in what is an underwhelming and overtly nonsensical piece of cinema.

Set in the future, Mila Kunis plays Jupiter Jones, a humble cleaner of Russian descent, who is saved by the genetically engineered Caine Wise (Channing Tatum) to protect her from the extraterrestrial Abrasax royal family – led by the callous Balem (Eddie Redmayne). As their planet is in need of a new heir, and Jupiter’s genetic signature makes her next in line for the rather opulent inheritance, he is determined to ensure she is kept away from the throne.

With an all-star cast also consisting of the likes of Sean Bean, Douglas Booth and Tuppence Middleton, the Wachowski’s simply don’t fully utilise their actors; not playing to their strengths. Kunis’s Jupiter is not nearly nuanced or interesting enough as a protagonist, while Tatum is left to deal with a bland, uncharismatic character that doesn’t leave any room for his comic potential. The lack of humour is in fact a prominent misgiving in this title, as given the nonsensical premise, there’s a distinct lack of irreverence of playfulness. The visual experience is a saving grace however, as the film, for all its narrative flaws, makes for a striking big screen experience.

Jupiter Ascending requires the audience’s full investment however, which is no easy task. When watching a picture of this ilk, that’s set in a surrealistic world which asks for a full suspension of disbelief from the viewer, it can only truly work if the audience oblige wholeheartedly. But as the narrative is such a struggle to abide by, it makes for a challenging, uninspiring watch.