Released in 2023, 65 combines sci-fi with prehistoric adventure, aiming to captivate audiences with thrilling action and innovative storytelling. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods and starring Adam Driver and Ariana Greenblatt, the film promises a journey back in time — 65 million years, to be exact. While it blends sci-fi and survival horror, it also explores universal themes of family, resilience, and hope.
However, despite its intriguing premise, 65 has polarized critics and viewers alike. Here’s a detailed look at what 65 offers, including its strengths, and weaknesses, and how it fares in the larger landscape of sci-fi cinema.
Plot Overview
The film follows Mills (Adam Driver), a pilot from a distant planet, who embarks on a two-year mission to support his ailing daughter’s medical needs. However, his ship encounters an unforeseen catastrophe and crash-lands on an unfamiliar planet, which turns out to be Earth — but Earth as it was 65 million years ago, populated by dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Mills finds himself responsible for a young passenger, Koa (Ariana Greenblatt), who also survived the crash. As the two navigate this alien yet familiar terrain, they must rely on each other to survive the harsh environment and escape before a catastrophic asteroid impact threatens to wipe out all life on the planet.
Performances and Characters
Adam Driver’s portrayal of Mills adds much-needed depth to the story. Known for his versatility, Driver brings intensity to the role, conveying the emotional weight of a father driven by loss and guilt. His character’s inner conflict and dedication to saving Koa are convincing, even when the storyline doesn’t fully support these nuances. Ariana Greenblatt’s portrayal of Koa is also commendable. Despite her limited screen time and dialogue, she effectively conveys vulnerability and resilience, making her a sympathetic character whose survival feels genuinely important.
The father-daughter-like dynamic between Mills and Koa is a core element of the film, lending emotional weight to the journey. However, due to the language barrier between the characters (Koa speaks a different language), the communication is largely nonverbal. While this adds an interesting layer to their relationship, it occasionally hinders the flow of their interactions and the audience’s connection to their bond.
Visual Effects and Cinematography
One of the standout aspects of 65 is its impressive visual effects. The dinosaurs are well-rendered, with realistic movement and detail that adds tension and excitement to the scenes. The prehistoric landscape is also beautifully crafted, transporting the audience to a primal version of Earth. Cinematographer Salvatore Totino captures the wilderness and danger of this environment, enhancing the film’s atmosphere with a mix of dark, claustrophobic scenes and wide, sweeping shots that showcase the world Mills and Koa must survive.
The film’s reliance on atmosphere over exposition contributes to a more immersive experience. Yet, it occasionally leaves the viewer wanting more context about Mills’s background, his planet, and the sci-fi aspects of the plot. This choice keeps the film visually engaging, though it limits the audience’s understanding of the broader story.
Action and Pacing
The action in 65 is intense, with frequent scenes of Mills and Koa facing life-threatening situations. The dinosaur encounters are high-stakes and well-choreographed, keeping the tension alive. However, the film’s pacing can feel uneven, as it alternates between intense sequences and quieter moments that don’t always add to character development. Some viewers may find the action predictable or wish for more creativity in the dinosaur confrontations.
While 65 excels in creating suspense, it struggles with balancing the survival thriller elements and character-driven narrative. The dialogue is minimal, which works to maintain suspense but occasionally makes the story feel shallow. As a result, the movie sometimes lacks the emotional depth that could have elevated it beyond a simple survival tale.
Themes and Symbolism
Beneath the sci-fi action, 65 explores themes of survival, loss, and redemption. Mills’s journey is motivated by his grief and desire to protect Koa, symbolizing the resilience and sacrifices parents often make. The language barrier between the characters subtly reflects the isolation both feel, each struggling with their own trauma. Additionally, the impending asteroid strike serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, mirroring Mills’s inner turmoil and his race against time to protect Koa.
Conclusion
65 delivers an adventurous and visually captivating ride, though it falls short of its potential due to limited character development and some pacing issues. Adam Driver’s and Ariana Greenblatt’s performances bring sincerity and depth to the film, making their journey worth watching. Fans of sci-fi and survival films will find enough excitement in 65 to keep them entertained, but those looking for a deeper emotional connection or intricate plot may feel unsatisfied.
While 65 may not be a groundbreaking addition to the genre, it’s a solid watch for its thrilling encounters and striking visuals, offering a unique twist on the classic dinosaur film. Overall, 65 is a bold but imperfect exploration of survival and resilience that leaves viewers to ponder the delicate balance between fear and hope in the face of extinction.
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