Better than expected

Rating: 8/10 (4 January 2017)

I was expecting, or rather fearing, another Jupiter Ascending when I saw who the two lead actors were, but this movie is more than just two hot celebrities teaming up for a cash-in. I have seen a trailer that sells this as an action movie, but people wanting space action will probably go home disappointed. This is more of an adventure drama, and thank goodness for that.
The good part: This movie may not become a classic in the genre, but it does capture ones attention, with a good premise and beautiful space scenery in almost every scene. It gives a good sense of what it could be like to be isolated aboard a massive space ship cruising through the galaxy, with the scales of space contrasting our our tiny lives. The good special effects and scenery combined with the character "Arthur" carries this one home. Jennifer Lawrence does a decent job as well.
The bad part: Im not a big fan of Criss Pratt's acting style as it does not fit this kind of movie very well. When ever he has a chance to add some depth and credibility to his character, it mostly ends up in some sort of silly (like in all his movies, which makes me wonder if he plays the same character in all of them?). The movie also has its share of corny Hollywood-esque jokes, but thankfully its kept on an almost acceptable level. The story of this movie could easily have been made into a thriller, or even a horror, but the aforementioned silly acting and cheesy jokes keeps the atmosphere jolly - but a bit too much so, and this is what drags it down.
Overall, I think that Passengers is worth watching.