Prospect
Homework - DECember 7, 2020
A more focused view of the sci-fi survival tale, this movie shows not everyone who ventures into space is looking to save the planet or discover alien life. Like pioneers of the old west, some folks are just hoping for a new and prosperous life.
While you may only recognize Pedro Pascal, the casting is a huge part of this movie’s success. Young Sophie Thatcher and Jay Duplass pair well, and the later supporting cast rounds out the world.
Prospect is a grounded lo-fi story that’s simple, yet entertaining. It foregoes CGI and outlandish space battles, leaving room for patient immersion into the world and its characters.
Currently on Netflix in both the US and Canada, Prospect is the hidden gem you were searching for and didn’t know it.
Rating system
A clear explanation of our star ratings.
Didn’t finish watching, qualifies as a movie, just not one people should watch.
spent more time on phone or daydreaming about other movies than watching.
One thing was good (casting, script, dialogue, direction, cinematography, costumes, set design). Everything else failed.
Got a couple of things right, though still not at recommendation level.
Some people may be mildly satisfied with a watch, but can’t recommend to most viewers.
Enough entertainment value to recommend among genre-specific viewers (i.e. There’s enough action for action fans, drama for drama fans, etc.). One time viewing is enough.
holds up within its genre and hits enough elements to entertain viewers looking for more than just that genre’s key features. Can recommend. Might rewatch.
Recommend a watch to most viewers. Hits on majority of quality aspects (i.e. acting, script, etc.) Will likely rewatch. Entertains beyond genre.
Not only should everyone watch this, but it’s close to perfection.
No discussion. Just watch it.
Current homework
Starship Troopers
This Paul Verhoeven classic delivers Robocop vibes in space! Watching the violent bug massacre in this anti-fascist satire is just too much fun to worry about political messaging.
Past homework
Coherence
A minimalist sci-fi concept movie that is well-executed and compelling.
Training Day
This movie has a look and feel that is immersive and tense, and despite Fuqua’s continued and celebrated career, Training Day set a bar that I doubt he’ll ever reach again.
Stranger Than Fiction
There is something special about comedians playing dramatic roles, and Will Ferrell in Stranger Than Fiction is truly special.