What I expected - unfortunately

Rating: Null/10 (19 July 2004)

This film was made for the average person who knows little or nothing about the original story and probably doesn't care, which is okay. The basic precepts of the story were maintained and anything beyond that was creative license. To me, it was simply a vehicle for Will Smith to continue his Bad Boy image, which appears to appeal to a great deal of people who see films as simply a format for action/thrillers with little depth or solid characterization. But, hey, if you're into a popcorn diet, so be it.
The CGI effects proved that it is becoming a near science in the film industry and, for that, I must say I am pleased. The generation of computer whiz kids that are behind that aspect of films (along with bigger budgets to support it) are turning out some rather spectacular productions. Had this been available in the 50's when only B quality films were being made, some of them may have been of much better quality than they were.
With that in mind, I'll give the film a 5 out of 10 base almost entirely on the special effects. Now, if someone in Hollywood will just wake up to the fact that it takes much more than that to make a great and lasting film. As a suggestion, it might be of value to them to sit down and watch Bladerunner before tackling another Sci/Fi (shrug!) project. It may not be the best SF film ever made, but it's hands down my favorite.