Elysium

Seen Village Fountain Gate
25th August, 2013

Sci Fi

Overview:

Set in a future Earth where the rich live an exclusive, long and healthy life on Elysium, a space station and ignore the ruined Earth other than for the resources they need. The story follows a man, Max, who is on probation for car theft and is working in a factory, producing the androids that not only police the society, but also provide vital services to Elysium.

The world of Max is a cruel and brutal one, where police androids dish out corporal punishment on the spot, the rich are more concerned about getting richer, and the poor suffer mostly in silence. Max is a catalyst, an instigator of change, but depending on the point of view, will the change be for better or worse?

Again, I will say no more, otherwise this will be full of spoilers.

Thoughts:

Neill Blomkamp - the writer and director of both District 9 and Elysium loves to use scifi to reflect on the world. Like District 9, Elysium comments on current event in a way that is easy for the audience understands. Not only does he look at the view of the many - the poor and downtrodden, but he looks at the wealthy who are trying to maintain their lifestyle and stay separate from the poor - a reflection of the broadening socioeconomic classes currently occurring.

The movie is very entertaining, and thought provoking, while still being fun. The reflection on society hopefully won't remain relevant but hopefully the overall story will stand the test of time.

Overall score: 8/10