re: refreshing, intelligent sci-fi

Rating: 8/10 (25 January 2003)

Mind blowing, intelligent sci-fi, with a lot going for it. For starters, the fantastic production design makes this the first sci-fi film in a long time to really create a whole new world. There are many wild previews of life in the mid-21st century , from how computers will look to how we'll drive to how big business will invade our privacy. The cinematography is also noteworthy, an effective washed-out look with a lot of blues and greens. The story is fascinating, centering around an interesting philosophical point - what if technology can predict crimes that haven't happened yet. Is it just for the soon-to-be criminals to be arrested and punished? On the less cerebral side, there are some jaw-dropping action scenes that are highly inventive and dizzyingly paced. Tom Cruise plays his usual role - short man making $20 million per movie - but turns in a solid performance. And as for history's most popular director, Steven Spielberg adds one of the more memorable entries to his list of accomplishments. Highly recommended, with something for everyone.