Old-skool Sci-Fi goodness

Rating: 10/10 (21 May 2013)

Real good. Some have complained that this film is derivative... but with the wealth of science fiction stories, series and movies that exist in the world at this point, it would be hard not to be a little derivative. The Matrix was derivative. Didn't stop it being a modern classic.
In fact, this movie is a real homage to the best themes and traits of classic science fiction. The plot plays out like a very large-scale early 20th century sci-fi novel with added hi-octane action, the visuals are frankly stunning (blame Iceland's scenery for much of that) and Tom Cruise and co. give really solid, seamless performances.
The ambient music is really well integrated with the rest of the movie, and the score is just a touch quirky in places, enough to be original by Hollywood standards.
It's got plot, visuals, soundtrack, performances... and even a subtle subversive political message (subtle enough to annoy some people without them realizing why, methinks). It ticks all the boxes, and is officially the only movie I've ever given ten stars to... this decade.