An uninteresting, uneven film

Rating: 10/10 (27 September 1999)

"Dark City" is a 1940's "film noir" rehash disguised as science fiction. The problems with this movie involve a weak plot, uneven pacing and an uninteresting story. What really bothers me is that Roger Ebert panned "Blade Runner" for its lack of a human element (which it had in spades), while giving this movie (which has no human element at all to it) four stars. This speaks to me more of Roger Ebert than the movie, and the fact that he likes to see rehashes of what he considers "art films." Although this movie may have "art," it's completely lacking in "heart." I found "The Matrix" a much better film (I've seen both on DVD). The Matrix had at its base a strong philosophical doctrine, a deeper meaning beyond the prevalent kung-fu scenes that is apt to be remembered for a long time to come. "Dark City" is nothing more than a bland mood piece, an emotionless and ultimately meaningless movie that will be lost in the memories of filmgoers as better movies come along. 7/10 for effort.