Alita: Battle Angel

Movie Review: Alita: Battle Angel 

I really had no intention on seeing this film.  The trailers didn’t really grab me, had no idea what it’s about, and the thought of sitting through another crappy sci-fi film left me cold.  However, due to coworkers second hand recommendations and another film I’ve been thinking of seeing starting way to late for a school night, I decided to give Alita: Battle Angel a shot.  Not knowing the source material, having absolutely no preconceived notions or expectations, I went in cold.  Knowing only that James Cameron worked on the screenplay and produced, Robert Rodriguez directed, and Christoph Waltz was one of the stars, how bad could it be?

Not bad.  Not bad at all.  In fact, Alita is the most “enjoyable” futuristic (26^th century) dystopian world I’ve gotten into since Blade Runner Runner 2049.  The story is straight forward, but is executed with a number of twists, turns, and surprises.  Visually, the film is stunning with some really spectacular CGI and f/x work.  Admittedly, the lead character, Alita, took some getting used to.  I found the anime eyes rather freaky and disturbing on a non-cartoon character.  The action sequences are thrilling, fast-paced, and expertly done.  The overall pacing of the film was rather quick, but never felt rushed and still contained character and emotional development.  Towards the end of the film, there is one scene that’s corny as all get out, so much so I thought my eyes might roll out of my head, but it was a one of and fortunately didn’t last long.

The casting/acting is solid.  Characters and their development fairly substantial, especially Alita.  Freaky eyes withstanding, I really got into her character and her journey from innocent/naïve to badass protector. Good music score, strong editing, and great blend of action/drama/emotion/humor. 

Alita: Battle Angel is simultaneously refreshing and different, yet familiar. I characterize it as a much more intriguing/watchable/entertaining Elysium + Ready Player One with a dash of Power Rangers and a nod to the Borg for added flavor.  A thoroughly enjoyable movie experience that left me with questions and anxious to return to Iron City and Zalem. I’m giving Alita: Battle Angel an 8 and a hope for more.