Dark City is short on sci-fi

Rating: 8/10 (18 April 1999)

"Dark City" is long on mystery and film noir but short on sci-fi. The premise lacks any sci-fi bases. It reminds me more of some gothic/vampire films and the equally stupid "the fifth element". The ending "mind" battle between the hero and a blank archbadguy is particularly laughable, given the presumed seriousness. However, some ideas like altered reality and symbolisms are interesting though derivative. The acting and cinematography are of fairly high quality, except for the weak doctor role. The ending sunrise scene is very moving with the splendid music. 7 (of which 2 belongs to the lovely Jennifer Connelly) out of 10 is a fair rating. Recommended for rental.