Film Review: ‘Self/Less’ Starring Ryan Reynolds

Director Tarsem Singh introduces a modern sci-fi genre in this new alternative thriller, starring Ryan Reynolds as the protagonist.

The main storyline envelopes around a heartless tycoon, Damian (Ben Kingsley), who is offered a unique opportunity to transfer his mind to a healthy young body (Ryan Reynolds) as becomes plagued by disease. His mentor/scientist, Albright (Matthew Goode), guides him through the transition into a new body, supplying Damian with an identity and medicine. Everything seems like a convenient transaction, Damian experiences fun and games as a man in his prime until he forgets to take the daily dose of medicine. He begins to unravel the consequences from his newly acquired body and begins to seek justice against Albright and his organization. Although the main synopsis is somewhat cliche (God created Man. Man created Immortality), the film gains merit as it develops into an interesting thriller with car chases and fight scenes.

Self/Less inherits quite a few themes and sequences from action/hero films while arranged with a sci-fi theme that make it one of a kind, but oversees key instances that make each genre successful. With so many overlapping ideas, the film lacks in depth and development that make for it to be a relatable or sentimental story. Singh, however, does make the film into a visual spectacle with his over emphasis on stylistic direction, sci-fi scenes are remarkably thought through and executed while the panoramic landscapes burst through the screen.

The film hits theaters this Friday.

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