Un-thrilling thriller

Rating: 6/10 (17 September 2012)

I was looking forward to this. It looked really quite good. Not read the books or even heard of them before I heard about the film.
I was really disappointed though. A good concept (OK its not original) is wrecked by plywood performances all round, and staggeringly boring set pieces that fail on most levels to excite or engage. The first act within the district is almost interesting yet frustratingly light on detail. Its a wafer light depiction of a future totalitarian society that simply never convinces. The costumes of the posh ones with power also detract from any authority. Im left shouting, "why don't you just all fight back and stop being lambs!"
Most annoyingly though is the romance between Katnip and the forgettable bloke from her district is flatter than a slice of Asda value bread. No spark, no heat, nothing. Was it supposed to be a romance of convenience? Because that how it felt.
I know some might think that this is a kids film, but for me 12 and over is both for kids and adults. Both they and me deserve better.