Pandorum

Pandorum (2009)
Directed by Christian Alvart
Length: 108 minutes
Rated R for strong horror violence and language




Growing up the son of Trekkies (or Trekkers if you prefer), I have always had an infinity for the science fiction genre. I still fondly remember when my stepfather introduced me to Star Wars; to sum up my family's love for all that is geeky, we often have family outings consisting of the latest sci-fi blockbuster and Mexican food. That being said, I'm also quite critical of the genre since it is often a breeding ground for campy B-movies. Bolstered by an intriguing preview and an actor known as an indie-darling, I was immediately interested in Pandorum. While it will not go down as an instant classic or modern masterpiece, the thrills and chills found within this film are enough to warrant a viewing.

Set in the year 2174, Pandorum begins with a common thread to the sci-fi world: overpopulation and dwindling resources on earth force humans to seek new colonization options. Aboard the ark-like Elysium, two crew members awake with little recollection of their mission. Dazed and confused by the condition of the ship, Bower, the protagonist portrayed by the vastly underrated and often intense Ben Foster (Here, The Messenger) goes out alone into the dark ship to discover what has happened, guided only by the voice of Payton, played by Dennis Quaid (The Special Relationship, Legion). Soon Bower discovers that not only is something wrong with the ship, but he is not alone.

I really enjoyed the opening parts of the movie, specifically the scenes when Bower is first leaving to explore the ship. Pandorum definitely channels the claustrophobic, impending doom made popular by the ventilation scenes in the original Alien. While the film does a good job of keeping the chilling "you know something is about to happen" feeling, the second half fails to capture the intensity of the opening half. As Bower's memory begins to return and he journeys further into the ship, the intensity is substituted for a more traditional horror film (a la a slasher flick). While these later parts are by no means terrible, it fails to maintain the initial momentum that makes the movie so creepy and promising.

Visually, Pandorum is a nice looking film that boast interesting designs. While the core of the story may not be too original, certain elements add a distinct and original flair to the film. Specifically, the ship is massive and intriguing in its layout, while the exterior shots of the ship are unlike most other ones seen. While classic masterpieces such as Alien and The Thing will still carry the torch for the science fiction/horror genre, Pandorum is a decent attempt at joining the ranks of the greatest. Perhaps if the film had been better able to capture the anxiety and fear of the opening scenes, the film could have fared much better. Instead, we are left with a decent attempt that will certainly entertain yet leave you wanting more.

Final Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Favorite Quote: uh...not really a memorable quotes kind of movie