Based on a Sci-Fi novel about repelling an alien invasion, Ender’s Game is interesting but doesn’t quite live up to expectations
By Lester J Wan
In a cataclysmic invasion by an alien species known as the “Formics”, Earth is fortunate to repel them with the sacrifice of Commander Mazer Rackham.
Ender’s Game is a science fiction action adventure that takes place in this tumultuous future, with the young Andrew “Ender” Wiggin (played by Asa Butterfield) being the “chosen one” to help to rid Earth of this pestilence once and for all.
The space battle scenes are nothing short of spectacular. Unfortunately, the movie does not turn out to be quite as epic as hoped.
Unrealised Potential
Among the Achilles heels of the film were a slow-developing story, a fairly cliché plot, and thin and predictable dialogue. Ender’s Game does not live up to the potential of its concept, and characters.
Battle School was slow-moving and not particularly interesting. With the cadets donning a similar suit and helmet to the characters in Tron: Legacy, much, much more was expected. Ender’s Game is certainly not in the same league as Tron.
Even the futuristic Audi cars seemed to have limited screen time.
Likeable Stars
Butterfield was the lead actor in Hugo, and The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. He is convincing as Ender, the child prodigy and strategist.
With his brilliant mind and unrivalled strategies, Ender is selected for Battle School by Colonel Hyrum Graff (Harrison Ford).
He has to overcome several challenges, including violent ones. His own streaks of violence are disturbing but you can’t help but root for him.
Hailee Stenfeld, who came to prominence as Mattie Ross in True Grit, stars as Petra. She is pretty and likeable. Both are believable as their characters, and one would look forward to seeing more of them.
Not Fleshed Out
Many of the characters appear one-dimensional or suffered from not being well fleshed out. Veteran Harrison Ford had been outstanding in his past roles, including as Han Solo in the Star Wars trilogy, as the titular character Indiana Jones in the series of films, and even in The Fugitive. As the Colonel, his character lacked depth.
The same could be said for Ben Kingsley, most famous for his role as Gandhi. For a major character, the legendary pilot and commander of the fleet who sacrificed himself to save Earth, his character appears to be but a mishmash of stereotypes.
Even Abigail Breslin, lauded for her role in Little Miss Sunshine, seems to have been side-lined.
Those who’ve watched “Hannah Montana” [starring Miley Cyrus] will recognise Rico [Moses Arias]. You’d think that he would be less annoying. You’d be wrong.
On the whole, Ender’s Game is fairly interesting. A sequel is to be expected. I just hope that it’ll be better.
This review was possible thanks to Audi & GV.
Ender’s Game [PG]
Director: Gavin Hood
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Hailee Stenfeld, Harrison Ford & Ben Kingsley
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
Length: 114 min
Release: Nov 7
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