Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow

A deliberate essence of stupidity. I can’t understand why anyone would want to make something like this and why anyone would want to watch it. As an attempt at naive retro sci-fi it’s successful, as a film for the 21st century viewer is an epic fail. Listening to most of the dialogues felt like slow, painful death; if the film was half an hour longer, I wouldn’t have been able to write this review. (08/04/2010)

The stylized visuals are complemented by excellent sound and a great orchestral soundtrack. However, the story lags a long way behind the quality of the technical aspects. Although it is completely obvious that this is intentionally naive as a dime novel, but perhaps they go too far. It’s nice that it was basically made by one person in his garage, but that is no excuse for all of the shortcomings. Another disappointment is Jude Law: he simply isn’t the heroic adventurer type. Conversely, the lately rather back-seated Paltrow seems to really enjoy her role as the journalist. Another plus point is the goading humor between the central duo which, luckily, works, saving a lot. (11/01/2004)

A lot of blinking, lively dialogues, and one big toy that I can't play with. Jude Law is forever a character actor for me, who has nothing in common with a smiling action hero, and the cold Angelina is pure agony this time. The only significant advantage is that something is constantly moving, breaking, or flying on the screen, but in terms of how much was said about the film during its creation and how the creators boasted about it being a historic milestone, it quickly deservedly fell into oblivion. (09/11/2007)

The plot-driven and especially the punchline have fizzled out, nevertheless it is an artistically remarkable film that references famous movies of the past and evokes the atmosphere of classic adventure film and literature. It has a touch of Verne, a touch of Trsouka, and the creators of American sci-fi from the 30s. Overall impression: 65%. (12/01/2007)

An unusual approach to a fascinating story. A wonderfully fairytale approach with elements of thriller and sci-fi. Some of the scenes reminded me at times of my all time favorite, Star Wars. It’s just a shame that in places (especially during the second half) the movie rather loses pace; otherwise I’d give it 4 stars. (05/31/2006)