‘Red Planet’ A Trip Not Worth Taking

Mon., Nov. 27, 2000

Dave Rinehart, Ferris

“Red Planet” Rated PG-13

Val Kilmer hasn’t starred in a decent film since “Top Gun.” Early previews of “Red Planet” hinted his career might be redeemed in a film loaded with special effects and a fine supporting cast.

Unfortunately, there are several solid reasons to spend your ticket money elsewhere. An implausible story, abominable editing and wasted talent are only a few. The biggest disappointment, though, is the film’s lack of emotional depth, making “Red Planet” as soulless as the dead of space.

In the year 2057, Earth stinks. Frogs are extinct, pollution is choking the atmosphere, and overpopulation is rampant. What’s the next logical step to secure man’s future? Spray algae across the landscape of Mars, of course!

NASA has tried to create a habitable, oxygenated landscape fit for human colonization and sends a team to investigate the experiment’s outcome. When the ship suddenly malfunctions, the crew is marooned on the angry planet, forced to contend with an inhospitable environment, a deranged robot and some evil extraterrestrials.

From the start, “Red Planet” is a feast of stunning visual effects, brilliant lighting and sweet gadgets. But scratch the surface, and the film emerges as an unpolished, uneven and unlikable effort. The movie’s premise leaves little room for any emotional connection to the characters, making for a bland, predictable and forgettable experience.

It may look nice, but ultimately this Planet is not worth the trip.

Grade: C-

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