A thought-provoking and thrilling sci-fi action film with a dose of originality.

Rating: 8/10 (4 October 2012)

Looper is an exciting science fiction film which doesn't burst with originality but manages to bring something new to the genre anyway. In addition, it's also a crime film so there's no denying that in parts it's very violent. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis, playing the same main character, do an admirable job. It's presented well how a person can change as time passes. Director Rian Johnson wrote a good script so the actors have enough time to develop their characters. Jeff Daniels, in particular, is a standout. His role is relatively minor but he impresses when he explains the high stakes of being a looper. As the film moves along, after an informative but rather dull beginning, the sci-fi elements of the story begin to develop. The action too becomes frequent and entertaining, leading to an impressive ending. The future world of Looper is a mix of the ordinary and the fantastic. Mostly it's ordinary because Johnson tried to present a lived-in and quite possible future. He did an admirable job though it's clear that a sci-fi action film was new territory for him because the film's different elements don't come together as well as they should. Despite this it's a thrilling adventure which will no doubt impress viewers. In conclusion, Looper is another solid effort by Johnson. In my opinion, it's not an instant classic but it's certainly a film worth seeing.