A by-the-book Hollywood blockbuster, but what a book it is!

Rating: Null/10 (24 May 2004)

It seems any new slight development in technology is an excuse to bash out another special effects extravaganza. Of course, this depends on your perspective. Don't we go to the cinema to be entertained? If the answer is yes, then only seriously jaded movie-goers will get nothing out of this film. It's a by-the-book Hollywood blockbuster, but what a book it is!
Human's neglect of their environment has led to excessive greenhouse gas emissions and consequently an increase in global temperatures which in turn has caused a huge mass of ice to break off an antarctic ice shelf. Curiously, this huge addition of fresh water into the salt-water oceans causes a 'salinity crisis'. This, combined with something to do with the warming of the North Atlantic current, is the basis for the following superstorm, the likes of which hasn't occurred for 10,000 years. Did I say it will also cause a new ice age?
I'm loathe to describe more of the plot for fear of ruining the remaining shred of unpredictability. Roland Emmerich (Stargate, Independence Day, Godzilla, The Patriot) has always been attracted to matters on a global scale, and it doesn't get much bigger than this. There are actors somewhere in this film but their performances are thoroughly predictable and unremarkable - though Dennis Quaid is likable but Jake Gyllenhaal is still Donnie Darko to me. Anyway, as in most of Emmerich's films, the actors play a back seat to the incredible visual effects. They are simply stunning. The concept of a huge tidal wave sweeping through downtown Manhatten (as seen in the trailer) was quite surreal to me, and seeing it realized on screen was just amazing. The SFX bar has been raised slightly yet again.
There are several needless subplots to add complexity and perhaps longevity to the story, and the action blockbuster 'formula' is all too apparent, although there were a couple of surprises, however unrealistic. Weather enthusiasts should take extra care not to read too much into the details. However, there are some valid points raised in the film despite the fact that they are used primarily to set up the action. Like Independence Day and Godzilla, most of the joy comes from the thrill of anticipation and watching the impending disaster unfold. In simple terms, the first half is better than the second.
I love a good brainbender, but I must also admit to a passion for just this sort of brainless eye candy! What you see in the trailer is pretty much what you get from the film. Expect rocket science and you'll be bored. Expect another typical exciting huge Emmerich effects flick and you won't be disappointed.