But with zero expectations, stunning visuals and a brilliant leading pair; I put this film right among the better ones I've seen this year.

Rating: 8/10 (11 June 2012)

I arrived at the theatre clueless about what Prometheus was all about (apart from it being a sci-fi flick), having not partaken in the hype surrounding the film. Therefore, the lack of any preconceived notion allowed me to enjoy the film more than I expected.
Prometheus as I later found out is the brain child of Director Ridley Scott who was also behind the original film, 'Alien'. The film is supposed to be a prequel to the 1979 hit, which makes sense of the nostalgic feel that was evident throughout the film. Hence comparison between the two is made making you realize Prometheus's problem clearly lies in the several plot holes and a comparatively lackluster supporting cast.
Two archaeologists, Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace) and her boyfriend Charlie Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green) discover a star map in several different ancient earth civilizations that they believe is an invitation from humanity's creators. It's the year 2093 i.e. four years later that they find themselves at a moon several light years away from earth in a star ship called Prometheus. On discovering several alien structures, they land nearby to explore it further, triggering a series of events leading to what could be humanity's destruction back on earth.
Spectacular visuals introduce you to the film taking complete advantage of those 3D glasses. These visuals stay with you throughout the film and to an extent, are one of its main highlights. CGI creations from action scenes to sweeping landscape shots are amazingly detailed. The cinematography (Dariusz Wolski) is flawless giving the visuals the required space to shine. Ultimately the world created by Scott is impeccable. Unfortunately the same can't be said about the background score (Marc Streitenfeld) that not only didn't fit the film's nature, but didn't even manage to leave a lasting effect.
Several times during the film it made one wonder why something was happening when logically the opposite should be happening. The lack of caution, fear, or clear direction on part of the characters at several occasions was perplexing. There were several 'Captain Obvious' moments too that were quite comical, while there were instances of leaving several loose ends unsolved. Shoddy efforts to cover up the plot holes I believe, which fell flat thanks to complete ignorance towards any kind of character development and clear lack of common sense.
Noomi Rapace as the film's protagonist is convincing with every turn in her character. As the only character with any real development, Noomi punches a pack with a brilliant performance especially when things get desperate. Michael Fassbender (Android called David) in a restrained act comes as a surprise from such a powerful actor. The constant look of curiosity on his face was reminiscence of Commander Data from Star Trek. The character mostly seemed random with no reasoning or motivation stated for his actions adding to the whole loose ends quota. If it wasn't for Michael's brilliant portrayal, the confusion created would have sunk the film.
Charlize Theron (Meredith Vickers) didn't have much to do apart from standing around pretending to be indifferent and cold. Idris Elba (Janek) as the "can't fly worth a damn" pilot was cliché riddled and so was his co-pilots Emun Elliott (Chance) and Benedict Wong (Ravel). Sean Harris (Fifield), Kate Dickie (Ford) and Rafe Spall (Millburn) seem like space-fillers. And I have no clue why Guy Pearce played the old man Peter Weyland.
When I reread what I've written above, this film does come across as a half-cooked effort at rebooting a franchise. But with zero expectations, stunning visuals and a brilliant leading pair; I put this film right among the better ones I've seen this year. I really did enjoy it quite a bit which is a surprise, because I'm pretty critical if I must say so myself. So if you're into sci-fi films, this is surely a must-watch.