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Jupiter Ascending

Jupiter Ascending (2015)

In a universe where human genetic material is the most precious commodity, an impoverished young Earth woman becomes the key to strategic maneuvers and internal strife within a powerful dynasty…

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Directed by Lilly Wachowski

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lilly Wachowski
  • Lana Wachowski
Writer
  • Lilly Wachowski
  • Lana Wachowski
Producer
  • Lana Wachowski
  • Lilly Wachowski
  • Grant Hill

Reviews

Reno
6.5/10

> One liner, somewhat richer, but only a decent entertainer.

A sci-fantasy directed by the Wachowskis of 'The Matrix' fame. Theirs lowest point ever as the filmmakers, but still not that bad flick. The movie lacked in many areas, and one of those is failing to have at least one stunning fight/war scene. I know it was only the beginning and there will be a sequel, maybe ends as a trilogy, but the story was very weak for an intro movie.

Looks like one-liner, precisely to say kind of similar to 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. I mean in a thin idea, the whole story takes place. Something like a space expedition for a chosen one, hopping from a planet to planet, seeking answers and protection. The title character, Jupiter Jones, played by Mila Kunis, with the help of the Caine Wise (Channing Tatum) takes a risky venture when their lives were threatened. Finding who's behind and other truth brings the end of the narration, which runs for just over a 2 hour.

Performances were okay, but kind of doubt their inclusion in the project. Mostly the cast was the younger ones, maybe except, Sean Bean. Many of them are only the recently emerged stars. So it was a big responsibility in a big budget movie and they did it. But the movie should have had at least one senior artist. The graphics were somewhat rich, and again the absence of the quality scenes and stunts lets the movie fall.

6½/10

Sep 24, 2015

Per Gunnar Jonsson
8/10

It appears that I am going to disagree with a fair number of people when I say that I quite liked this movie. Sure, if you expect some deep story with a lot of moral cleverness in it you are going to be disappointed. This is an interesting story but one that hangs together by a fairly fine thread.

To me it is a decent enough story that is propelled by a decent enough action and absolutely wonderful scenery. Yes, I agree with everyone saying that it is a bit of a B-story. It has many issues and barely hangs together at times.

However, if you try to ignore that for a while and just try to view it as a piece of, fairly fast paced, visual entertainment, well then it hits the spot quite well. It is frequently beautiful to watch. The action sequences are not bad and the story is, if nothing else, certainly not the usual thirteen to a dozen B-movie repeats. The acting is, well, also generally of B-movie quality but it is not downright bad and, once I got in the right mindset for the movie, it did not disturb me.

On the whole I quite liked this movie but I guess you have to be a bit of sci-fi fan, with an emphasize on visuals, to do so.

Dec 22, 2017

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Science Fiction/Fantasy/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Jupiter Ascending distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Lilly Wachowski brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Jupiter Ascending took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $176.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 127 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 175 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1989 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 335 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Jupiter Ascending shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Super Mario Bros., which focuses more on action than character development, Jupiter Ascending subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Swell and Mission Galactica: The Cylon Attack explore similar territory, Jupiter Ascending stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 4, 2015
  • Runtime: 2h 7m
  • Budget: $176,000,000
  • Revenue: $184,000,000

Where to Watch

Cinemax Amazon Channel
Cinemax Apple TV Channel

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