Something different from Luc Besson...

Rating: 7/10 (25 November 2016)

LUCY is a French action film that explores the popular concept (some might say misconception) that the human race only utilises 10% of the power of the brain. The convoluted storyline sees everyday Scarlett Johansson accidentally exposed to a new wonder drug which opens up her brain to a much higher percentage and subsequently changes her life in a very big way.
This is something of a mixed bag of a film which was missold by the trailers and advertising as an action thriller. It's more of a thinking person's science fiction film. There are some clumsy thriller elements in the story, namely those including the sinister criminal Mr. Jang (a delightful western role for the fine Korean actor Choi Min-sik), but most of all this is an exploration of the human mind and what it's ultimately capable of. It's much like LIMITLESS in that respect.
Generally this is an enjoyable film that feels fresh and inventive. The early thriller aspects of the story are handled very well with a ton of suspense. Once the sci-fi twists kick in it takes a while for the viewer to acknowledge the change in genre, but from that point it remains philosophical and engaging. The ending threatens to become overwhelmed in CGI but the film as a whole remains fun and the likes of Morgan Freeman bring gravitas and believability to their parts. As with UNDER THE SKIN, Johansson proves herself an actress willing to accept more outre parts, which is to be commended.