Source Code

Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright, Michael Arden
Directed by: Duncan Jones
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Science Fiction, Thriller
2011

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: A soldier (Jake Gyllenhaal) uses source code to inhabit the body of a train commuter eight minutes before a bomb explodes, killing everyone on board. He races against time to find the identity of the bomber before he can kill anyone else.

Review:

Tim: After Duncan Jones' impressive debut film, Moon, I was very excited to see his follow up. Source Code is a similar film- it has certain aspects of uniqueness that set is apart from other films. It has the same challenging, fascinating qualities as Moon. And yet, like that film, this one is just missing something underneath the surface that prevents it from being really good.

I liked the story, for the most part. It is an interesting blend of action and science fiction. I like the idea of sending a soldier back into the shadow of a previous event, allowing him to operate there- unable to change the past, but able to collect information vital to the future. It's an interesting "what if" scenario. The story plays out well, and the more unbelievable aspects of the story are presented in a realistic light, which enables us to suspend our disbelief enough to enjoy the film.

The cast is also very good. Jake Gyllenhaal may not be a legitimate movie star, but he's enjoyable in the lead role. He gives a performance characterized by a wide range of emotions- from the initial bewilderment, to the frustration of being caught in a situation in which he has little control, to the final acceptance he feels. Gyllenhaal makes this all seem believable. I really enjoyed him in this film. Michelle Monaghan doesn't have a lot to do, but she plays her role quite well. She is important to the film, and I liked her. I thought Vera Farmiga and Jeffrey Wright were strong as well. The film doesn't have a great many characters, so each one takes on additional importance. They deliver quite well.

I like that the story is fairly straightforward, yet has layers of complexity. On the top level, the film is really about a guy trying to find the identity of a terrorist. That simple story is packed full of action and excitement. However, that's not all to the film. The movie is also about the past and the future. Can we alter the past? How do we learn from the past to create a better future? It also brings in mind questions about free will, multiple universes, true love, and others. It's a bit remarkable how much is in this small little sci fi film.

While I really enjoyed the movie, I didn't love it. The story is good enough to get us involved and interested, but it is hard to get truly emotionally invested in the story or the characters. I had a hard time really caring about them, especially as more of the story is revealed and we find out what's really going on. On the one hand, I was surprised and a bit shocked. On the other hand, I had a hard time investing emotionally. The story is twisting and turning, but it bucks the audience off a bit as it moves.

Source Code is a good movie and it is certainly unique. I enjoyed the film, although at the same time, I wished it had been better. Still, I recognize the genius in Duncan Jones, and I am so excited for his best films (which are coming). The guy is seriously talented, and is learning with every film. I honestly believe his masterpiece is ahead of him, and I can't wait to watch that movie.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Moon, Eagle Eye, Rendition, Jarhead