When a global-warming experiment nearly wipes out all life on earth, its few remaining inhabitants struggle to survive. Living in a new ice-age, they travel on a train called ‘Snowpiercer’. A class hierarchy still prevails with the wealthy riding the train’s front with the poor down the back. Curtis (Chris Evans), with help from friends Edgar (Jamie Bell) and Gilliam (John Hurt), aims to break free of the unfair situation. Battling a hoard of deadly guards they make their way to the front. The trio refuse to be prevented from completing their quest.
Although suffering from an over-abundance of ideas and slow pacing, ‘Snowpiercer’ continually engages. Much of its success lies with Bong Joon-ho’s creative direction. Grasping the stories’ opportunities, he utilises its concept well. As characters move towards their goal, the deadlier and more unpredictable the obstacles become. Often resembling a multi-level computer game, each train carriage reveals a new set of challenges. The emerging threats ensure ‘Snowpiercer’ never becomes dull whilst delivering its layered themes.
Amidst its amazingly staged action sequences, the actors provide strong performances. You wouldn’t think ‘Snowpiercer’ would be an actor’s piece but it is due to some clever writing. Evans, Hurt and Tilda Swinton playing a rare villain role, all have a grand time in creating this strange world. This is perhaps its most successful aspect – you truly immerse yourself into this environment. The production design helps immeasurably with some scenes lingering in the memory.
It isn’t all perfect but when it hits the heights ‘Snowpiercer’ offers an entertaining experience. Its creative flourishes set it apart from other works as it makes you think while providing a futuristic eye-full of action.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 8
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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