2012: We Were Warned
Greetings, Earthlings! By now, I’m sure most of you have heard of the commotion behind the speculation of this whole mumbo-jumbo that the world will come to an end in 2012. The truth is, we’re all destined to be doomed in the near future, no? But, the good news is, it will not happen anytime soon. The bad news, however, 2012 might not survive for long on the silver screen. Brace yourself for another impact.
Why? I heard you asked. Well, for one, disaster films lack the so-called “essence,” where people will remember it for a long time. The thing with disaster film is that, it will have its impact this instant and gone the next. Does anyone remember watching the 1974 disaster film “Towering Inferno” starring the late Steve McQueen or what happened before the fire broke out at the 81st floor? That’s exactly what disaster film means. Hold your thoughts people. The next disaster film proves to be an eye-opener with its cool graphics and awesome yet convincing effects. Remember “The Day After Tomorrow?” Since Hollywood hangs around long enough to flex its CGI muscles, disaster films are getting bigger and better each time. The latest tracking devices, powerful technology and bigger budget means there are more convincing storyline ahead.
It's raining meteors - sweet!
Roland Emmerich loves visualising catastrophes, end of the world and whatnot. He had already sent aliens to earth to take over the human race in “Independence Day,” a giant lizard to squash us in “Godzilla;” and unleashed his power on major climate change in “The Day After Tomorrow.” Now, inspired by the idea that the world will soon come to an end around December 21, 2012 (based on the ancient Mayan Calendar’s current cycle), Emmerich takes us on an amazing journey of human species surviving yet another calamity. Instead of people melting halfway through their breakfast, this occurs through volcanic eruption, earth-crust shitting and massive floods.
Generally, “2012” is an easy film to watch. The story, though a little edgy at times, is quite entertaining. You get the same effects of quicken heart beats and anxiety while watching an action movie. The CGI effects are eye-popping, whilst making it seems all too real. But the film’s repetitive floor-cracking and buildings crashing onto one another is seen far too often that makes the running time of almost three hours more exhausting than terrifying.
On another level, “2012” is enjoyable as sheer visual entertainment. The film offers no discussion, philosophical, intellectual and certainly no religious quotes. Though sandwich in between is the desperate plea for higher power to save their poor souls. But to put in some of these questions would be munching on this film too seriously. Give Mother Nature a break, shall we?
Bumpy ride ahead
Ratings: 3/5 stars
[...] for Mr. Emmerich, I have to agree with the review by Loong Wai Ting. While she has said all that I wished to say, I simply have to add that it is no [...]
Emmerich has done it again. 2012 looks out of this world. I don’t think I can wait until it comes out. The CGI makes me druel. Finally there is a film to get excited about.