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This topic is for you to post your fan reviews. Prometheus is technically out in France, Belgium and Switzerland today.

Right... I've just seen Prometheus in Lille, France. I came A long way to see it and my hopes for the film were very high. 

I'm going to try not to give any major spoilers but read this at your own risk, I will say however that if you have watched the first 2 trailers or more, you have basically seen the whole movie.

It's hard to look at the film objectively since alien is my favourite film of all time. But here goes.

Plot: this was fairly weak and predictable, there were a few good unanswered questions, but very few and far between, mostly you were spoon fed a very straight forward expansion of the trailers, in fact all the main surprises bar one (I'll get to that) were in the trailers.... This was a bit of a let down for me but at the same time won't affect the rating I give the film as its my own fault for watching trailers etc. I do feel that the story could have been much more impact full given the subject matter. That said its still a solid film overall.

One thing I have to say about the plot is that some of the reactions, or more specifically Non-reactions to some quite alarming events by characters are nuts...some serious shit hits the fan and the next scene it's as if nothing has happened... Quite poor if you ask me.

Characters: this is where the the film shines and falls down at the same time, David is great and a complex character, in fact I'd go as far to say he steals the show and it could have easily been his story. The crew of the Prometheus is 17 and honestly I'd say 10 of them don't do or say anything and just add to the body count...I really think the film would have been better cutting down the cast and making it more intimate like the original. I hate to say this but several times in this movie I was reminded of avp1, and some of the characters feel like the fell straight out of andersons story and into this one.

Gripes aside the "main" characters are all well acted and I think did a good job, I do feel that there was more potential particularly between vickers and David to expand the relationship.

Visuals: everything looked fantastic with the exception of the creatures. Apparently no one told Ridley that Tenticles are not scary and make any creature that has them a joke. There are several Tenticled creatures in the film and the looked stupid to me I won't say anymore than that.

Oh and remember that report of the 3 xenon sat next to each other outside a stage during production? Well I can confirm that's a load of bull.

There is also an... Abomination to Alien in the film, but I can't say more without giving away possibly the only thing which is not in the trailer... I'm sure it's going to be one of the most hotly debated topics on the boards soon though.

The engineer is also about 10ft tall in the movie (he's also a douchebag) 

Summary:

I wanted to love this film, but some of the stuff in it really shits on Alien, human space jockeys, creatures which would make h.r.giger laugh, a complete set up for another movie, which is almost cringe worthy. These are things which hurt me as a fan, that aside it is a good movie... Id give it a 5/10 as a fan and a 7/10 for anyone else.

Final message is this: Ridley why the f**k did you have h.r.giger on your set and not use him, the murals were the best damn thing in the whole movie (im not kidding) (someone even says "look murals" lol) and also it's clear Ridley is a big avp fan boy (you'll know what I mean when you see it)

Final note an hour after I wrote this, don't be put off, it is a good film, just not the prequel I personaly was hoping for.

Be ready to get assaulted by the "you had too much expectation for this movie you set yourself to hate it" police ^^
I agree a lot with you.

Pretty cool what you did going to Lille lol!

I'm gonna copy/paste my intitial reaction here:

About the movie.
For now what i can say, is that i got out of the theatre angry.
I've got nothing to spoil because from the first trailer the movie has been spoiled to us.
I loved it until the last 20/30 minutes, i'm still trying to figure out how the last 2 minutes (Scott probably said 8 minutes because he's including the fight that leads to this moment) are supposed to make the bridge with ALIEN.
If it is what i think it is, it's just lame. My main theorie, the human Engineer is wrong, but i think that when you'll see the movie you're gonna wish it was right... And i'm not bragging...
The creatures i won't even bother...
The opening was beautiful, and there is some really cool moments.
I called the ending.
Lots of stuff is clearly missing, scenes have been clearly modified.
Some characters have their development cleary been cut from the move.

I had expectation going in.
i knew what Scott was doing, some sort of blockbuster version of ALIEN.
I was ok to embrace it. I really wanted to fuking love this movie.
As it is for now i can't.

One thing is sure, when you have great expectations, it is bound to happen some sort of backlash.
So i'm right now processing that, trying to leave my feelings and expectations out and see the movie fresh.
That is why i'm definitly going to see it again.

For me it is not a bad movie, it's a flawed and lazy movie.

UPDATE 2

Ok so the night was great and i had time to rethink about what bothered me in the movie.
I'm gonna dwell into spoilers so be warned.

Spoiler

Some stuff just bothered me in the movie (the way Fifield and Millburn get lost and end up being victims, how can the guy who is mapping the place with his orbs and is in constant contact with the ship can be lost is just beyond me lol, that ravel and chance who have their great moment with janek are almost just shadows, that the hangar attack is just there to satisfy the need for action of the general movie audience) But i can forget and forgive them.
Eeverything is so cool around those that its ok.

I loved the movie until the Engineer is awaken.
One thing i understand now is that the surviving Engineer, is just a regular shmoe he's not a leader or anything.
He and all the dead engineers were on this planet creating weapon of mass destruction, this is a military base and he's just one of the many "soldiers" (remember Scott said the derelict was a bomber hence the military concepts).
When shit hit the fans on that base (this is important i will get back to it later) he and his crew were on their way to take off to Earth to wipe us out (the image of David in front of well stored urns, is actually the cargo bay of the juggernaut inside the urns, death either by complete desintragration of the body or by infestation).
So when he wakes up and start to go berzerk on David, Weyland, Ford and the Merc his agressive reaction do make sense.
He was ordered to destroy our race and he wakes up to find us there.
That is all there is to this first contact.
But i was expecting that our crew will get to meet an actual leader of the race, not just a grunt.
The one who has his face sculpted, he's their leader.
The movie forget about all the grand questions and goes into action, slasher, blockbuster territory.
But now i'm even ok with that, its not a problem anymore that we end up having just a classic horror slaher ending with a big bad monster stalking our heroine.

What still bothers me is the missed oportunity to make the events that lead to the massacre in the Engineer military base to payoff in the end. Especially now that i know what was supposed to take place in the end of the movie.

Bascally here is what happened in the military base.
An Engineer got infected by the same thing that killed/infected Holloway, the black goo that seems to either kill you in horrible pain or make you morph, mutate. That infected Engineer unleached a new form of life, probably like the one that Shaws delivers, a giant octopus like facehugger. The pile of dead Engineers (beautifull image btw) that Millburn and Fifield encounter at one point have their chest bursted (Fifield even states it) and the holes in the 3 sarcophagis leave no doubt that xeno like creature have been born 2000 years ago (that is the date Shaw gets when she carbon analyse the Engineer dead body they find) and killed almost everyone on the Engineer base.
What was the original plan for the final act was to have The surviving Engineer doing the same thing, going berzerk and kill the humans taking off but then :
1st script version, he would have been chestbursted by a massive xeno (wich growing was kept dormant thank to the Engineer being in cryosleep) growing very fast (like all the creatures of the movie) and been hunting down Shaw.

2nd script version, they (Engineer and Shaw) would have been confronted to the massive xenos or their spawns that were born from the Engineers 2000 years ago.

After killing it, Shaw would have took off with the Juggernaut with David just like she does in the movie.

Maybe Scott ditched these endings because they were too much ALIEN like, or maybe he wants to use this and adress the whole military base incident in the sequel.

Either way i would have prefered this than the Engineer stalking Shaw to the ship like Jason to be killed by a giant octopus.

[close]

Well can't help the way I feel about it, but like I said, it is a good movie, just not so much for a fan (unless you are into tentacles)

Edit: I read your review and I guess we are on the same page, I didn't feel quite as bad but definitely the last bit felt wrong somehow.

Spoiler

Were you surprised how vickers died, it felt like she was just written out quickly because they had changed the story

[close]

Time for a Review, I watch it at Le Grand Rex in 3D with 4 other friends.

I'm going to start about the 3D since I'm someone who mainly hates the use of it.
I must say that the first 30 mins surprised me a lot with all this space sequences and it looks fabulous on 3D.
Overall the fact it was directly shot in 3D stereoscopic is a very good thing and really made the screen disappear.

If there's a movie in the whole License that I love, it is ALIEN.
It is Alien for so many reasons in fact so I wasn't "so" worry when I went to the theater when I knew that H.R. Giger was designing creatures & set, Walter Hill & David Giller producing (well that's a 50/50 actually since they produced AVP but whatever) and Ridley Scott was directing.
My only main concerns was Jon Spaiths who only wrote the Darkest Hour.

Spoiler

Plot: Every little thing is predictable and it is done in purpose because that's the only thing they can give you. Everything else will remain in a stupid mist and I bet they won't even serve as a purpose in Prometheus 2. By that I mean:
-You don't know what is the place they are in (one character suggest bio weapon)
-You don't know Why SJ run and were afraid of something.
-You don't know Why there is a green emerald in the head room.
-You don't know what is this head doing here (art I guess)
-You don't know who are the SJ, where they came from, what are they doing, why they created us and now want to kill us, why only one is remaining?
-Why is Weyland having only 2 days to live?
I could go one for a very very very long list but you get the point, there are just some irrelevant elements shown on screen.

What I really hate in movies when it comes to plot, original or not, it's when characters & actions are making total non sense.
For example:
Millburn say hello to Fifield and Fifiel answer he's not here to makes friend but to makes money. Which force then Millburn to be distant during dinner.
They land...
Fifield launch the probs that scans the map and get directly the topography on its computer located on his arms.
He says which way to go and they end up in the room with the head & jars.
Fifield says he's coming back to the ship because he's tired of alien/god bullshit and Millburn says "I come with you" why he's a scientist. I mean, Haven't we miss something between both?
But the worse is to come. Fifield is the dude with the maps and HE CAN'T FIND HIS WAY OUT while the rest of the crew does.
Fifield and Millburn are stuck in this sanctuary alone.
Doesn't this remind you of AVP and the scenes between Miller & Verheiden (enemy at the beginning) and while progressing inside the pyramid ruins / They encountered the Aliens (which in Prometheus are earth-worm mutated by the black liquid... lol)
Anyway, they both die in a gory way that made the audience laugh pretty much like AVP-R or SAW.

Characters: 17 crew members and we probably see like... 10 or 13 of them? And only David & Shaw have character development. Holloway and Vickers are probably then a bit more developed with Cpt. Janek. But all other characters have like "one line of dialog" for the entire movie or just a bit more but it ain't anything relevant and it felt most of the time off. I mean it's the kind of Comedy scenes which makes you smile but it's nothing incredible.

The thing concerning David that bother me are its motivations. I may understand that he obey weyland but every of his actions put in dangers FOR NO REASONS the mission and it even seems like in ALIEN that Weyland had informations concerning the SJ much much before prometheus and knew about their existence just like in ALIEN. That is an question that still won't get an answer apart Vickers who says he's superstitious.

By the way Vickers also makes non sense once you understand who she is.
I mean, what would the daughter of Weyland do on board of the Prometheus, especially when she wants the crew to be wrong about that alien / god stories and once they prove it is right she just want to come back on earth.
She also express a hate for her father and vice versa but why?
Among every characters, Weyland is the top-noch of the useless state of art.
He play like... 2 mins of screen time. He die ALA ALIEN Resurrection (A beautiful butterfly scene) while trying to worship his god and felt uninspired very much like the Weyland we got in AVP (an old sick billionaire who send a last expedition to make the biggest discovery of mankind. A total remake of AVP).

Visuals: The prometheus ship looks very nice. It is the state of the art and we get some awesome space footage in 3D.
But that is pretty much all you get.
I don't know why is Giger Credited because NOTHING has bio-mechanic design. It may have a "feels" of it but it's unlike anything we've seen in Giger art. It's more mechanical and shiny metal than a basalt volcanic black rock with bones mixing with pipes when it's about the set.
And it is 100% organic when it comes to creatures.
Though despite all the unimpressive visuals I must say that the VFX (CGI) were very very very well executed.

To finish, I disliked the film a lot. It felt exactly like the first AVP with a R-rated.
I don't think that giving a note would be very useful apart 1 for the 3D and 1 for CGI which would be 2/10.
But it's a movie that won't be remembered as Alien and in several years we'll laugh about it.
Just to give you statistics, we were 5 to go to the theater that night.
1 loved it.
1 enjoyed it
3 disliked it and almost fell asleep.

It's in the end a matter of taste & colors but still, it's nowhere near a masterpiece.

[close]

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 01:42:34 PM
Well can't help the way I feel about it, but like I said, it is a good movie, just not so much for a fan (unless you are into tentacles)

Edit: I read your review and I guess we are on the same page, I didn't feel quite as bad but definitely the last bit felt wrong somehow.

Spoiler

Were you surprised how vickers died, it felt like she was just written out quickly because they had changed the story

[close]

I was like WHAAAAAAAAAATTTTTT???

Spoiler

Make her survive the crash to get her crushed like this.
What was the point? Have the 2 stars running together in the same shot?
Whats even worst is that Shaw also get crushed but thats ok only her Oxygen is low lol
The film suffers for major rewrite or last minutes shooting, many scenes that appears in the trailer are modified or absent.
What about the maybe there is 2 androids thing? Just a f**king tease? What for?

[close]

Celticant,
Giger did shit on the movie :)
He was let go after a fight with production designer Arthur Max.
The creatures and sets are not his work but inspired by.

Quote from: Le Celticant on May 30, 2012, 02:18:12 PM
Time for a Review, I watch it at Le Grand Rex in 3D with 4 other friends.

I'm going to start about the 3D since I'm someone who mainly hates the use of it.
I must say that the first 30 mins surprised me a lot with all this space sequences and it looks fabulous on 3D.
Overall the fact it was directly shot in 3D stereoscopic is a very good thing and really made the screen disappear.

If there's a movie in the whole License that I love, it is ALIEN.
It is Alien for so many reasons in fact so I wasn't "so" worry when I went to the theater when I knew that H.R. Giger was designing creatures & set, Walter Hill & David Giller producing (well that's a 50/50 actually since they produced AVP but whatever) and Ridley Scott was directing.
My only main concerns was Jon Spaiths who only wrote the Darkest Hour.

Spoiler

Plot: Every little thing is predictable and it is done in purpose because that's the only thing they can give you. Everything else will remain in a stupid mist and I bet they won't even serve as a purpose in Prometheus 2. By that I mean:
-You don't know what is the place they are in (one character suggest bio weapon)
-You don't know Why SJ run and were afraid of something.
-You don't know Why there is a green emerald in the head room.
-You don't know what is this head doing here (art I guess)
-You don't know who are the SJ, where they came from, what are they doing, why they created us and now want to kill us, why only one is remaining?
-Why is Weyland having only 2 days to live?
I could go one for a very very very long list but you get the point, there are just some irrelevant elements shown on screen.

What I really hate in movies when it comes to plot, original or not, it's when characters & actions are making total non sense.
For example:
Millburn say hello to Fifield and Fifiel answer he's not here to makes friend but to makes money. Which force then Millburn to be distant during dinner.
They land...
Fifield launch the probs that scans the map and get directly the topography on its computer located on his arms.
He says which way to go and they end up in the room with the head & jars.
Fifield says he's coming back to the ship because he's tired of alien/god bullshit and Millburn says "I come with you" why he's a scientist. I mean, Haven't we miss something between both?
But the worse is to come. Fifield is the dude with the maps and HE CAN'T FIND HIS WAY OUT while the rest of the crew does.
Fifield and Millburn are stuck in this sanctuary alone.
Doesn't this remind you of AVP and the scenes between Miller & Verheiden (enemy at the beginning) and while progressing inside the pyramid ruins / They encountered the Aliens (which in Prometheus are earth-worm mutated by the black liquid... lol)
Anyway, they both die in a gory way that made the audience laugh pretty much like AVP-R or SAW.

Characters: 17 crew members and we probably see like... 10 or 13 of them? And only David & Shaw have character development. Holloway and Vickers are probably then a bit more developed with Cpt. Janek. But all other characters have like "one line of dialog" for the entire movie or just a bit more but it ain't anything relevant and it felt most of the time off. I mean it's the kind of Comedy scenes which makes you smile but it's nothing incredible.

The thing concerning David that bother me are its motivations. I may understand that he obey weyland but every of his actions put in dangers FOR NO REASONS the mission and it even seems like in ALIEN that Weyland had informations concerning the SJ much much before prometheus and knew about their existence just like in ALIEN. That is an question that still won't get an answer apart Vickers who says he's superstitious.

By the way Vickers also makes non sense once you understand who she is.
I mean, what would the daughter of Weyland do on board of the Prometheus, especially when she wants the crew to be wrong about that alien / god stories and once they prove it is right she just want to come back on earth.
She also express a hate for her father and vice versa but why?
Among every characters, Weyland is the top-noch of the useless state of art.
He play like... 2 mins of screen time. He die ALA ALIEN Resurrection (A beautiful butterfly scene) while trying to worship his god and felt uninspired very much like the Weyland we got in AVP (an old sick billionaire who send a last expedition to make the biggest discovery of mankind. A total remake of AVP).

Visuals: The prometheus ship looks very nice. It is the state of the art and we get some awesome space footage in 3D.
But that is pretty much all you get.
I don't know why is Giger Credited because NOTHING has bio-mechanic design. It may have a "feels" of it but it's unlike anything we've seen in Giger art. It's more mechanical and shiny metal than a basalt volcanic black rock with bones mixing with pipes when it's about the set.
And it is 100% organic when it comes to creatures.
Though despite all the unimpressive visuals I must say that the VFX (CGI) were very very very well executed.

To finish, I disliked the film a lot. It felt exactly like the first AVP with a R-rated.
I don't think that giving a note would be very useful apart 1 for the 3D and 1 for CGI which would be 2/10.
But it's a movie that won't be remembered as Alien and in several years we'll laugh about it.
Just to give you statistics, we were 5 to go to the theater that night.
1 loved it.
1 enjoyed it
3 disliked it and almost fell asleep.

It's in the end a matter of taste & colors but still, it's nowhere near a masterpiece.

[close]

I agree with everything you said but a bit of a harsh rating

Spoiler

I really want to know what that crystal was!

[close]

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 02:25:20 PM

I agree with everything you said but a bit of a harsh rating

Spoiler

I really want to know what that crystal was!

[close]

[/quote]

Spoiler

I dont think it's a crystal or anything.
Rememember in the trailer you see the same shot with Holloway reaching toward it, but instead of a green thing there is the bowl that the sacrifice engineer uses in the opening of the movie.
It another modification made in post production.
It's still the same bowl but its tilted and there is frozen green goo, like the one David finds on the panel that activates the corridor holograms.

[close]

Celticant some answer are there there are just not spoonfed to you :)

Xeno that was a fair review. I'm now more excited then ever!

Quote

Quote from: NGR01 on May 30, 2012, 02:32:52 PM

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 02:25:20 PM

I agree with everything you said but a bit of a harsh rating

Spoiler

I really want to know what that crystal was!

[close]

Spoiler

I dont think it's a crystal or anything.
Rememember in the trailer you see the same shot with Holloway reaching toward it, but instead of a green thing there is the bowl that the sacrifice engineer uses in the opening of the movie.
It another modification made in post production.
It's still the same bowl but its tilted and there is frozen green goo, like the one David finds on the panel that activates the corridor holograms.

[close]

Celticant some answer are there there are just not spoonfed to you :)

Ah!!! Didn't noticed this and thanks for the Giger infos too.
Though I still hold my opinion on this: It was stupid to show it and irrelevant.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on May 30, 2012, 02:39:29 PM
Xeno that was a fair review. I'm now more excited then ever!

LOL  what a surprise.
Can't wait to read your review where you will of course say that its a masterpiece lol
Whatever...  ;)

Xeno,

Spoiler

Did you not rolled you eyes at how Ravel and Chance are completly fine to sacrifice themselves?
They had like What 2 scenes to flesh them out and it's like YES SIR WE ARE HAPPY TO DIE FOR SOMETHING WE DONT EVEN UNDERSTAND!!! Laughable.

[close]

I've got big plans to see this move on June 15TH, but the other people posting in this topic should at least give a rating.

You people should do the "(Insert Numerber)/10" rating system more often.

Quote from: NGR01 on May 30, 2012, 02:45:27 PM

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on May 30, 2012, 02:39:29 PM
Xeno that was a fair review. I'm now more excited then ever!

LOL  what a surprise.
Can't wait to read your review where you will of course say that its a masterpiece lol
Whatever...  ;)

Xeno,

Spoiler

Did you not rolled you eyes at how Ravel and Chance are completly fine to sacrifice themselves?
They had like What 2 scenes to flesh them out and it's like YES SIR WE ARE HAPPY TO DIE FOR SOMETHING WE DONT EVEN UNDERSTAND!!! Laughable.

[close]

Yes! I did actually physically roll my eyes. I

Spoiler

It was like they as characters just had nowhere to go, I also thought the captain suddenly having depth and saying they can't let them go back was stupid... And also no one seemed to mind there was a squid hanging out in the escape pod, and that David was an asshole...

[close]

Spoiler

Weyland and David are ready to freeze Shaw to keep the squid but when she appears with her C section they don't give a damn about where is the squid. Also why Ford and the Merc who prepare Shaw for cryo dont pursue her when she escapes ??? ??? ???

I just loved how it's Janek that comes with the explaination of what is the temple.
Suddenly he's the one who give us the answers.... Even if i liked the character, seriously?
That is just lame screenwriting.

I hope an extended cut will fix some of those.

[close]

Thanks for using the spoiler tags, guys :) I think it's healthy to temper our expectations. I feel realistic :)

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 01:42:34 PM
Well can't help the way I feel about it, but like I said, it is a good movie, just not so much for a fan (unless you are into tentacles)

Edit: I read your review and I guess we are on the same page, I didn't feel quite as bad but definitely the last bit felt wrong somehow.

Spoiler

Were you surprised how vickers died, it felt like she was just written out quickly because they had changed the story

[close]

THAT smells like LOST to me. I loved that show up to a point. It was frequently writing itself up to a wall and just dropping threads by abruptly killing a character off. Charles Widmore and John Locke are prime examples. It's really more a hallmark of the writer's style. I'd really like to know who contributed what at this point. I don't want to assume, but where there is smoke...

I hope you enjoy it mate :-)

Quote from: DestinyCapt on May 30, 2012, 05:09:34 PM

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 01:42:34 PM
Well can't help the way I feel about it, but like I said, it is a good movie, just not so much for a fan (unless you are into tentacles)

Edit: I read your review and I guess we are on the same page, I didn't feel quite as bad but definitely the last bit felt wrong somehow.

Spoiler

Were you surprised how vickers died, it felt like she was just written out quickly because they had changed the story

[close]

THAT smells like LOST to me. I loved that show up to a point. It was frequently writing itself up to a wall and just dropping threads by abruptly killing a character off. Charles Widmore and John Locke are prime examples. It's really more a hallmark of the writer's style. I'd really like to know who contributed what at this point. I don't want to assume, but where there is smoke...

In the end it had to come through Ridley. No point in trying to know which ideas came from Lindelof.

---

Quote from: Truise on May 30, 2012, 05:40:55 PM

Quote from: DestinyCapt on May 30, 2012, 05:09:34 PM

Quote from: Xenoscream on May 30, 2012, 01:42:34 PM
Well can't help the way I feel about it, but like I said, it is a good movie, just not so much for a fan (unless you are into tentacles)

Edit: I read your review and I guess we are on the same page, I didn't feel quite as bad but definitely the last bit felt wrong somehow.

Spoiler

Were you surprised how vickers died, it felt like she was just written out quickly because they had changed the story

[close]

THAT smells like LOST to me. I loved that show up to a point. It was frequently writing itself up to a wall and just dropping threads by abruptly killing a character off. Charles Widmore and John Locke are prime examples. It's really more a hallmark of the writer's style. I'd really like to know who contributed what at this point. I don't want to assume, but where there is smoke...

In the end it had to come through Ridley. No point in trying to know which ideas came from Lindelof.

That sound's awful. :(

I actually love riddles. Hope he gets another chance at this franchise.

This all sounds very confusing  :o I haven't seen all the trailers and I haven't kept up with the threads so I know nothing but it sounds hectic.

A shame its not going down too well, if this doesn't work it could end the Alien franchise :(

I think part of truely enjoying a movie is understanding what went into making it. This is true for good and bad. I am just curios what each of the three principals involved brought to it. Yes, ultimately all of it was done with Scott's approval. Really that's fine. It's his vision. He honed it. He crafted it. Watch any of his interviews and you quickly come away with the notion that he has no problem asserting himself to get what he wants. I do believe thought that sometimes it takes another voice to temper a visionary. In time we'll know more about the crafting of the story. I do want read Spaight's spec script. I read Shadow 19 and Passengers in an attempt to see what this guy was about.  He has been tight lipped about what he wrote. Maybe that will change after the film is out in all areas.

What did you think of Shadow 19?  I'm reading it now, the beginning is certainly cool.

I really don't know where to begin. The film was such a massive deception. My first feeling is definitely Anger. The movie is very lazy and insulting at some point.  >:(

Short Review:

Spoiler

Story:
Weak and lazy. No answers for so many questions (the Lindelof touch). A lot of blanks. Honestly It's a shame. They just "flew" over the subject. No real mistery, philosophy or whatever in this story, just a succession of scenes. Everything is happening too fast and it seems that there are major holes in the chronology of events from one scene to an other. Everything start by "accident" in fact with the opening of the door of the head room. The air is contaminated...
And personnally, I don't see the point with the Prometheus myth ? Apparently Weyland just want to make his maker before dying. No evil plan behind that.
Who the Engineers really are ? What is this place ? What really happened to them ?  What is really in the urns ? Why they want to destroy mankind and Earth ? Why the big head and the green emerald ? Why only one Engineer remains ? Why is Weyland having 2 days to live ?...
And so many more questions.

Characters:
Don't know what to think about most of them. Apparently there is only 2 strong characters: Shaw and David. Holloway and Janek are interesting. Vickers ? Can't really tell about Weyland. The others: Milburn, Fifield, Ford, Chance, Ravel... are insipidus. Problem is that all these characters don't seems really interested, surprised, fascinated or scared by what they encountered and what's happening. Bizarre.

Visuals/FX:
Fx's are great. Special mention to David's head. Problems are with the designs. For the humans It's good. The Prometheus ship is great. The suits too. Equipements, weapons... evrything rules. The non-Human side now: The giant Humanoid type Engineers are great. I like their skin/suit and their faces are cool. The giant Tentacle monster sucks really hard but It's nothing compared to the Abomination we saw in the last minute. Only the Snake-Hugger can be affiliate by It's design to Alien.

Gore/Violence:
R-Rated movie ? No. PG-13 I think. The broken arm ? Ridiculous. Vicker's death ? Ridiculous. Ford and the Guard killed by the Engineer ? He just knock them out. They can be alive. They have scanned Kate Dickie's head but don't know why ? Maybe for the Director's Cut ? I really hope. The guys smashed by Fifield. Same thing. Nothing really impressive here too. Nothing that can match with the birth of Kane's son and with the violence and brutality of the Xenos.

The Last minute scene:
I'm really angry and pissed off about the last minute scene who shows us the birth of a "Xeno" from the Engineer. The scene we all dreamed of seems to have been quickly write and made just for the Fanboy Service.
The creature is an insult. >:( >:( An insult made to Giger's creations, to the original ALIEN film from the same Ridley Scott and to Us, fans. Problem is not the fact that this thing is a "Proto-" or "Pre-" Xeno, but the design itself. Lame and Shame. Definitely. A really ugly design in a Patrick Tatopoulos style but shitty. Supposed to match Giger's beast ? Lol. I really want to know the guy responsible of the creatures designs. Did he knows Giger's work ? >:(

[close]

Conclusion:
I'm going to watch it again to be sure and I hope this is just my review of the Theatrical Cut. I really hope the Blu-Ray Cut will be superior cause at the moment this Prometheus really doesn't match with ALIEN. Definitely. In all way.

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 30, 2012, 09:26:15 PM
I really don't know where to begin. The film was such a massive deception. My first feeling is definitely Anger. The movie is very lazy and insulting at some point.  >:(

Short Review:

Spoiler

Story:
Weak and lazy. No answers for so many questions (the Lindelof touch). A lot of blanks. Honestly It's a shame. They just "flew" over the subject. No real mistery, philosophy or whatever in this story, just a succession of scenes. Everything is happening too fast and it seems that there are major holes in the chronology of events from one scene to an other. Everything start by "accident" in fact with the opening of the door of the head room. The air is contaminated...
And personnally, I don't see the point with the Prometheus myth ? Apparently Weyland just want to make his maker before dying. No evil plan behind that.
Who the Engineers really are ? What is this place ? What really happened to them ?  What is really in the urns ? Why they want to destroy mankind and Earth ? Why the big head and the green emerald ? Why only one Engineer remains ? Why is Weyland having 2 days to live ?...
And so many more questions.

Characters:
Don't know what to think about most of them. Apparently there is only 2 strong characters: Shaw and David. Holloway and Janek are interesting. Vickers ? Can't really tell about Weyland. The others: Milburn, Fifield, Ford, Chance, Ravel... are insipidus. Problem is that all these characters don't seems really interested, surprised, fascinated or scared by what they encountered and what's happening. Bizarre.

Visuals/FX:
Fx's are great. Special mention to David's head. Problems are with the designs. For the humans It's good. The Prometheus ship is great. The suits too. Equipements, weapons... evrything rules. The non-Human side now: The giant Humanoid type Engineers are great. I like their skin/suit and their faces are cool. The giant Tentacle monster sucks really hard but It's nothing compared to the Abomination we saw in the last minute. Only the Snake-Hugger can be affiliate by It's design to Alien.

Gore/Violence:
R-Rated movie ? No. PG-13 I think. The broken arm ? Ridiculous. Vicker's death ? Ridiculous. Ford and the Guard killed by the Engineer ?He just knock them out. They can be alive. They have scanned Kate Dickie's head but don(t know why ? Maybe for the Director's Cut ? I really hope. The guys smashed by Fifield. Same thing. Nothing really impressive here too. Nothing that can match with the birth of Kane's son.

The Last minute scene:
I'm really angry and pissed off about the last minute scene who shows us the birth of a "Xeno" from the Engineer. The scene we all dreamed of seems to have been quickly write and made just for the Fanboy Service.
The creature is an insult. >:( >:( An insult made to Giger's creations, to the original ALIEN film from the same Ridley Scott and to Us, fans. Problem is not the fact that this thing is a "Proto-" or "Pre-" Xeno, but the design itself. Lame and Shame. Definitely. A shitty Tatopoulos style design who is supposed to match Giger's beast. Lol. I really want to know the guy responsible of the creatures designs. Did he knows Giger's work ? >:(

[close]

Conclusion:
I hope this is just my review of the Theatrical Cut. I really hope the Blu-Ray Cut will be superior cause at the moment this Prometheus really doesn't match with ALIEN. Definitely. In all way.

I just came back from it... saw it in Belgium.. I loved every minute of the movie... It's hard to make a movie that  tops ALIEN.....but!!!!! Prometheus is a good movie..and did give me lot of new inspiration to finish my Alien world Project.....and my Alien landscape walk trough....

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 30, 2012, 09:26:15 PM
A shitty Tatopoulos style design

'Tatopoulos' and 'shitty' don't belong in the same sentence.

Quote from: OmegaZilla on May 30, 2012, 09:36:19 PM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 30, 2012, 09:26:15 PM
A shitty Tatopoulos style design

'Tatopoulos' and 'shitty' don't belong in the same sentence.

Right Omega. ;) But It really looks like a Tatopulos design.

Quote from: OmegaZilla on May 30, 2012, 09:36:19 PM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 30, 2012, 09:26:15 PM
A shitty Tatopoulos style design

'Tatopoulos' and 'shitty' don't belong in the same sentence.

That's just like, your opinion, man. Then again, my lurkings on the forum have informed me that while i'm as big a monster fan as you are (for reals!), we have quite different tastes. (lol, american godzilla ::))

Spoiler

I kid, i kid. :)

[close]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQEwgKBq-Wo#ws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQEwgKBq-Wo#ws)

any questions I'll try and ask them!

EDIT I just realize I got the death of Holloway confused with Milburn I have no idea why I did that  ???

So I'm getting two very different angles here, some are saying it basically looks good but a huge disappointment whilst some are saying its not great but good.

Going this Sun but my hopes are lowered now.

Maybe I'm wrong. Can't remember but I've just noticed that when Janek says "Kill Everything, Do You copy me ? "in the first International Trailer is not in the movie. Probably one more proof that this Theatrical Cut is a shame. We will have to wait for the Extended Cut to give a definitive opinion on the movie.

Thanks for the review, EEV.

And the sinking feeling in the pit of my gut grows deeper...

Cool review...although the constant twitching was a bit distracting.
Also, I LOL'ed at the captions.  :laugh:

My thoughts:

Prometheus is without doubt a Ridley Scott film, sharing a lot of it's DNA with Alien. Visuals, aestethics, editing, conceptual designs, lighting and so on – pure Alien territory. It looks and sounds fantastic, perhaps with one exception I'll talk about later. The first act establishes the (main) characters, the worlds, the larger thematic undercurrents at play. Humanitys origins. Our place in the Universe. Our purpouse.

Story- and pacewise, you can draw a loose comparison to the first part of Alien, fused with the last part of Aliens. From character building, pieces of exposition etc. into a rollercoaster final where the momentum just builds. Just not as good as those two movies when measured directly. Prometheus does not  give itself time to dwell in dark Nostromo-like corridors and otherwise, just attempt to generate mood from very little happening on screen. It's not Alien in that regard. The pace is faster and there's a lot more dialogue between characters. The finale has some problems with stitching some scenes together to make the flow and edit seem as 'natural' or effortless as Aliens.

Gotta mention the opening 10 or so minutes – absolutely breathtaking and spectacular. The best  segment Ridley has made since Gladiator. From the early Earth sequence to the crew awakening and getting up to speed with current events, this is stellar. The 3D works really well – easily the best use of the technology I've seen since Avatar +2 years ago. It's all about depth and scale when it's utilized. Often you don't actually notice it – dialogue scenes etc – just as it should be.

Michael Fassbenders David really shines – it's mostly through him and his almost childlike but razorsharp curiosity, the most profound discussions are channeled. Easily my favorite character of the film next to Shaw. It's not really an Ash or a Bishop infused performance – if anything, it's more akin to Roy Batty, speaking with the voice of Peter O'Toole. Think a bit of Ian Holms cold portrayel when it comes to interacting with the humans, fused with a bit of Bishops essentially benign servant nature and then wrap it around with Battys intensity, playful, constantly emitting some degree of inner doubt with small gestures and facial tics. A quite restrained performance.

The 3 mains – Fassbender, Rapace and Theron are pretty strong overall (although Vickers fate comes seemingly out of nowhere and to little effect), so much so that you could argue, that the other performances suffer somewhat from it. Should a directors cut arrive on home video, I would expect some of the added scenes to flesh out some of the supporting characters more – I'd welcome that very much. Janek and his flight crew could benefit from some more interaction, although Janek gets to have some pretty good scenes with the main actors. There are some bodyguard-type characters that are never given any attention whatsoever and that's fine. They are just around to be part of the background. You could get rid of half of them scriptwise and no one would notice.

Cvalda was right all along about LMG  ;) – he's a douchebag, portraying a douchebag in a douchebaggy performance. I don't really care who's to blame in the end. Basically the character just doesn't work as intended as it is.

Personally, I'd have liked the film to dive just that extra layer into the themes it puts up there, but it does indeed seem like Lindlof, Spaihts and Scott came through with their Q&A statement about not offering definitive answers to some of the plot points, background etc. On one side, I agree with the notion that it's essentially the questions and what asking those questions does to us, that's at the core of a well told story and perhaps not the answers themselves, however alluring it is 'to know'. On the other hand, I can understand how the ambiguity will cause some critisism and I'll agree that the story pretty much abandons this strand when the action kicks in and right up until the end. One scene depicts a couple of the main players questioning the engineer, but they don't see eye to eye on what they should ask him. It's a great scene as it is, but would have had more resonnance, if the themes had been brought up more to the forefront of the film up until that point. We understand what this place essentially is about (massproduction of death – you noticed that skull on top of the temple?), what this group of engineers were up to and why the last one cannot be allowed to go to Earth. But nothing more. It's up to you to speculate further down that road.

The one thing that didn't quite work for me design-wise, would be some of the creatures. I don't mind the engineer design and execution. Neither do I mind the choice to promote the mechanical designstrand as opposed to the bio/sexual designstrand (Alien) in the alien/engineer designs. But some of the underling creatures, including the starbeast, just doesn't quite work for me in the context of the film I'm watching. Especially the lighting and edit of the starbeast facehugging a certain individual.

Another thing that seems like it should have been completely reworked was the ending reel. It should have been adjusted storywise, dialogue and the edit. Right now, the ending seems somewhat 'unfinished' or rushed, which was the biggest surprise of the film to me, considering the talent involved.

I'll stop here for now – it's 1:30am and I have other stuff to do here before I turn in

Overall I think it's a good film, but not great. Visually and with regards to sound, it's second to none. This needs to be watched on the big screen – the bass sounds when the juggernaut is activated and 37 other scenes (at least) is just unbelivable. My seat was literally shaking. My main problems are with the ending, a couple of character interactions don't quite deliver and the thematic ideas could have been scrutinized deeper to a greater effect.

Characterwise, I'd give it a solid 7 of 10  :)

Quote from: Eva on May 30, 2012, 11:44:13 PM
Cvalda was right all along about LMG  ;) – he's a douchebag, portraying a douchebag in a douchebaggy performance. I don't really care who's to blame in the end. Basically the character just doesn't work as intended as it is.

;D

Considering you and I were apparently separated at birth and have largely analogous taste, I suppose this review is heartening. :)

That review was fantastic, Eva.  Just fantastic.

Spoiler

DAT VICKERS

[close]

:laugh:  But thank you much, I'm sure we all appreciate it and I'm glad you had a good time overall!  At least Ridley's beautiful visuals and David can make up for the pitfalls.

I can be happy with a good effort, but this is helped by the scars left from AvP :D.  I can imagine how I'd receive the film if we'd actually had good shit to watch in the past ten years.  Culturally speaking, feels like we're really scraping the bottom now.

Thanks again, Eva.

Quote from: Eva on May 30, 2012, 11:44:13 PM
My thoughts:

Prometheus is without doubt a Ridley Scott film, sharing a lot of it's DNA with Alien. Visuals, aestethics, editing, conceptual designs, lighting and so on – pure Alien territory. It looks and sounds fantastic, perhaps with one exception I'll talk about later. The first act establishes the (main) characters, the worlds, the larger thematic undercurrents at play. Humanitys origins. Our place in the Universe. Our purpouse.

Story- and pacewise, you can draw a loose comparison to the first part of Alien, fused with the last part of Aliens. From character building, pieces of exposition etc. into a rollercoaster final where the momentum just builds. Just not as good as those two movies when measured directly. Prometheus does not  give itself time to dwell in dark Nostromo-like corridors and otherwise, just attempt to generate mood from very little happening on screen. It's not Alien in that regard. The pace is faster and there's a lot more dialogue between characters. The finale has some problems with stitching some scenes together to make the flow and edit seem as 'natural' or effortless as Aliens.

Gotta mention the opening 10 or so minutes – absolutely breathtaking and spectacular. The best  segment Ridley has made since Gladiator. From the early Earth sequence to the crew awakening and getting up to speed with current events, this is stellar. The 3D works really well – easily the best use of the technology I've seen since Avatar +2 years ago. It's all about depth and scale when it's utilized. Often you don't actually notice it – dialogue scenes etc – just as it should be.

Michael Fassbenders David really shines – it's mostly through him and his almost childlike but razorsharp curiosity, the most profound discussions are channeled. Easily my favorite character of the film next to Shaw. It's not really an Ash or a Bishop infused performance – if anything, it's more akin to Roy Batty, speaking with the voice of Peter O'Toole. Think a bit of Ian Holms cold portrayel when it comes to interacting with the humans, fused with a bit of Bishops essentially benign servant nature and then wrap it around with Battys intensity, playful, constantly emitting some degree of inner doubt with small gestures and facial tics. A quite restrained performance.

The 3 mains – Fassbender, Rapace and Theron are pretty strong overall (although Vickers fate comes seemingly out of nowhere and to little effect), so much so that you could argue, that the other performances suffer somewhat from it. Should a directors cut arrive on home video, I would expect some of the added scenes to flesh out some of the supporting characters more – I'd welcome that very much. Janek and his flight crew could benefit from some more interaction, although Janek gets to have some pretty good scenes with the main actors. There are some bodyguard-type characters that are never given any attention whatsoever and that's fine. They are just around to be part of the background. You could get rid of half of them scriptwise and no one would notice.

Cvalda was right all along about LMG  ;) – he's a douchebag, portraying a douchebag in a douchebaggy performance. I don't really care who's to blame in the end. Basically the character just doesn't work as intended as it is.

Personally, I'd have liked the film to dive just that extra layer into the themes it puts up there, but it does indeed seem like Lindlof, Spaihts and Scott came through with their Q&A statement about not offering definitive answers to some of the plot points, background etc. On one side, I agree with the notion that it's essentially the questions and what asking those questions does to us, that's at the core of a well told story and perhaps not the answers themselves, however alluring it is 'to know'. On the other hand, I can understand how the ambiguity will cause some critisism and I'll agree that the story pretty much abandons this strand when the action kicks in and right up until the end. One scene depicts a couple of the main players questioning the engineer, but they don't see eye to eye on what they should ask him. It's a great scene as it is, but would have had more resonnance, if the themes had been brought up more to the forefront of the film up until that point. We understand what this place essentially is about (massproduction of death – you noticed that skull on top of the temple?), what this group of engineers were up to and why the last one cannot be allowed to go to Earth. But nothing more. It's up to you to speculate further down that road.

The one thing that didn't quite work for me design-wise, would be some of the creatures. I don't mind the engineer design and execution. Neither do I mind the choice to promote the mechanical designstrand as opposed to the bio/sexual designstrand (Alien) in the alien/engineer designs. But some of the underling creatures, including the starbeast, just doesn't quite work for me in the context of the film I'm watching. Especially the lighting and edit of the starbeast facehugging a certain individual.

Another thing that seems like it should have been completely reworked was the ending reel. It should have been adjusted storywise, dialogue and the edit. Right now, the ending seems somewhat 'unfinished' or rushed, which was the biggest surprise of the film to me, considering the talent involved.

I'll stop here for now – it's 1:30am and I have other stuff to do here before I turn in

Overall I think it's a good film, but not great. Visually and with regards to sound, it's second to none. This needs to be watched on the big screen – the bass sounds when the juggernaut is activated and 37 other scenes (at least) is just unbelivable. My seat was literally shaking. My main problems are with the ending, a couple of character interactions don't quite deliver and the thematic ideas could have been scrutinized deeper to a greater effect.

Characterwise, I'd give it a solid 7 of 10  :)

You did good Eva ;), I think you can say the movie turned out the it is now was because Ridley has not made an Alien related movie sinse 1979.

Dunno, sounds fishy to me. Especially now that I checked some of your other reviews, compared to them, this review had a lot of cuts and a lot of "Umm.." moments as if you were trying to just remember what people have said about it on the internet. You also don't really talk of any details, but just give a very broad review of it.

But, I might be wrong and you've seen it. Doesn't matter to me.  :laugh:

ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

I basically agree with eva.
The visuals are top notch.
Creatures are lacking especially the squid.
The end was rushed.
Characters not fleshed enough.
She sees the glass half full i see it half empty.

Eva please since you're seen as one of the "pure" one of the forum (those who had not been wishing the movie to be baddddddddd) just tell me how you feel about some things :

Spoiler

The way Fifield and Millburn get lost after being the one who mapped the temple and been giving direction thanks to his puppies,and the fact that they go rest where they were affraid to enter?
Janek being the one who explain out of the blue to the audience what the temple is?
Ravel and Chance happy suicide?
Weyland arc?
Vickers death?

[close]

Thanks

AWESOME Review Eva...so balanced so fair. THANK YOU.

Wow, great review Eva. So sad to hear the ending seems rushed :( 24 hours from now I'll know.

sorry just got back from eating dinner lol (its really late here)

Spoiler

I assume you're talking about the necklace-deal right? with the cross? (I couldn't remember it at first)

she din't want it to get contaminated or something correct?

[close]

Quote from: Dowly on May 31, 2012, 12:09:10 AM
Dunno, sounds fishy to me. Especially now that I checked some of your other reviews, compared to them, this review had a lot of cuts and a lot of "Umm.." moments as if you were trying to just remember what people have said about it on the internet. You also don't really talk of any details, but just give a very broad review of it.

But, I might be wrong and you've seen it. Doesn't matter to me.  :laugh:

The reason my reviews flow "smoother" in the other videos is because I always record them RIGHT after seeing the movie.

It's been about a day and a half and honestly im starting to forget a few things LOL!

I saw Men In Black 3 recently and although I liked it if you asked me some small detail about it I most likely would not remember it hahaha

in fact the only movie I've seen recently i could probably LITERALLY give you every detail about is the AVENGERS because I saw it in theaters 5 times lol

I saw it last night myself,but Eva basically summed up my thoughts exactly.

I enjoyed the film,Ridley wasnt lying when they said it is not a Alien film. The DNA is there but it can be watched as a completely seperate from everything you know.

I do hope they create a second film,if just to tie up the pile of questions that went through my head as the credits rolled.

I will see it again,as this film does warrent a 2nd viewing.

I'm going to give it a solid 8/10

Its not "Alien" but its a great creature flick that houses some of the themes we love.
I have to add,Fassbender really carrys the film in some parts. Like how Robert Downey carried Sherlock Holmes.

Well thx guys  :)

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 12:30:58 AM
Eva please since you're seen as one of the "pure" one of the forum (those who had not been wishing the movie to be baddddddddd) just tell me how you feel about some things :

Spoiler

The way Fifield and Millburn get lost after being the one who mapped the temple and been giving direction thanks to his puppies,and the fact that they go rest where they were affraid to enter?
Janek being the one who explain out of the blue to the audience what the temple is?
Ravel and Chance happy suicide?
Weyland arc?
Vickers death?

[close]

Thanks

Spoiler

Well, I just sort of guessed that F & M didn't mind going in there (big head room) as much, after the other teammembers had spent time in there with no problems. Remember how they freaked out in the remote corridors with piles of bodies. Wanna stay there? Besides, it seems like there was more heat trapped in there, compared to the rest of the place and M was clearly freezing with that alu blanket.

If anything, watching them joking around came over as somewhat 'mood killing', taking some of the tension away, which was a bad call.

To some degree, I would agree with the other points you mentioned.

[close]

I'll cut my response short for now, because I just have to go to bed now  :)

LOL love your sig Eva  :laugh:

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

I am a predator fan haven't kept up much of the Alien mythos at all I can't even remember any names of the characters in the original (alien and aliens) aside from Ripley and Dallas (because I live there lol)

oh, and Ash

I need to stay away from this website for the next week (impossible!). These reviews have me very intrigued, without even reading the spoilers.

To say I'm excited is an understatement.

Eva, that review of yours is spectacular! Can't wait to see it in a week or so! ;)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.clubedoslugue.com%2Fbufadores%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F06%2Ftumblr_lmcljt16j71qb1blf.gif&hash=af38fb735e2be009b85f486a69fe28efa67a14f9)

now that you are talking about that scene with David and Shaw.
i want understand something

Spoiler

did David had his head completely
removed from its body and still could talk?

[close]

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

The problem with this conclusion is the threads title is "my more detailed review vid of Prometheus" It helps to be able to recall details for a review to be detailed. Yes?  :)

Below is my couple of thoughts on this film:

It arrests your attention straight away from the very first moment and dosen't let up the grip untill the last minute, mostly because of two things: 1) stunning sceneris with breathtaking sights and completely realistical industrial designs, 2) overly intense and fast-changing succession of events. Owing to this both factor you never notice the film lasts for a liitle more than two hours: so absolutely compelling and overwhelming is it! Visually and audibly the sequences of landing/taking off ships are probably the best moments to treasure here! Obviously, it requires the second watching, and probably more than that.

In addition to totally stunning visuals/sounds you have completely believable characters - I mean everybody has their role played perfectly in the frames of what they have been entitled to embody. The problem starts when you try to understand why some character act this and that instead of what human would naturally be doing in the certain circumstances.

Spoiler

For instance I've been hugely puzzled and still don't grasp the thing who was the official leader of their mission? Saying that I mean: who was accountable and in subordination to whom? At one moment you see Vickers bragging of her company's money, at the other episode Holloway orders to go out to investigate the temple. When Fifild freaks out and all of a sudden decides to go back and takes Milburn with him, nobody bothers to get both to work...

On the other hand all characters behave towards each other like they don't give a shit about what happens to your crew member. Janek gets connection re-established with lost Fifild and Milburn and dosen't really show any signs of anxiety or hurry to resque both out of there ASAP.

[close]

Moreover, even praised performance of David and Show seems somewhat superficious to me, not mentioning other one-minute screen-time personages. Seems like hardship, tragedy, loss and terrible things done to main heroine don't affect her neither phyisically, nor mentally.

Spoiler

She is still springy on her legs after surgery and shedding tears at any subject of her belief after finding her gods are naturally malicious beings.

[close]

But I won't blame Scott for this, Lindeloff was eager to take the responsibility, so it's his fault. As well as rushed flow of events, especially to the end of the film, as if they were running of time and ideas how to cut it down seamlessly strictly to 120 minutes.

Spoiler

David, directing Show at the end of the movie, seemed somewhat out of place, at least to me.

[close]

But, probably, my main compliant with this film would about necessity to use Giger original images and connection to Alien series. Why all this, if you have such marvelous opening scene that perfectly works on its own? What was the need to resort to 30-years masterpiece conception, if you could create totally independent Universe and story without teasing all fanbase and cannibalizing Alien's mystery? In this connection I totally agree with the one idea shown here: some thing should have been left unanswered. Really, I wish this film didn't detract from the classic.

Spoiler

To use previously rejected Giger's designs just for the sake of them having been exploited somewhere or for the reason new production designers totally lack imagination to invent/draw something fresh?

[close]

As a conclusion: the film is worth watching at any rate! And I guess those who aren't so much into Alien series will like it more, than hardcore fans.

Glad to hear you liked it aliennaire!  :)

Quote from: Prime113 on May 31, 2012, 07:37:31 AM
Glad to hear you liked it aliennaire!  :)

Partially, Prime! because it's a candy with it's images and ambience sounds (plus the familiar Alien score, played at one time), but i'm a bit dissapointed with characters and the editing of the end itself.

Going to see it again right now. I will post a second and more detailed review after. I hope this second screening will be better.

Just in to add a couple of things

I will be watching this for a 2nd time in a couple of weeks, depsite the issues I have with it. After a good nights sleep and a lot of reflection on what I saw, trying to connect dots and all that, those issues largely remain intact. Nothing I can do about that - revisiting it won't change that for now, I suspect. But the very experinece of watching big ideas presented through the lens of a visionary director is something I cherish, despite my reservations about parts of the execution and plot points. The visuals and sound design are just that good.

I forgot to mention the soundtrack - I think it's put to pretty effective use and in some scenes, spectacular use. The Life track plays in the opening flyover of early Earth and it's magnificent. That track and A Planets main riffs are used multiple times - my favorite tracks. But sometimes, I'd wish they had gone for silence instead of a score and a lot of the tracks tht didn't do much for me when listening to them without visuals, didn't quite register with me during the film either.

One note - if I'm not mistaken, I think that rythmic thumping sound in the Engineers track is actually the engineers heartbeat or some biological proces. It plays when David listens to his cryotube and you see his chest moving up and down.

Last - I'll recommend staying away from spoilers, if you haven't dived into it already. There seems to be a lot of negativity surrounding them (some warranted, some seemingly getting a life of its own, like a cancer tumor growing out of control). My point is that you risk becomming jinxed beforehand by having some negative vibe concerning specific details you've read about playing inside your mind, growing and finally becoming adjusted to 'that's just the way it is - period' - before actually watching the freaking film in question! Some details might come across better if you experience them with a fresh mind and watching them unfold in the context of the film you are watching.

Having a spoilerish disussion among a few people who've seen the film and a lot who haven't, isn't an even playing field to start with. You cannot avoid being influenced by what is essentially an opiniated version of what the film is about, and considering you've waited years for this film to materialize, why not give it another week? I'm trying to keep my thoughts as spoilerfree as possible - at least until the US audience has catched up with the film and we can have an even-sided discussion about the film.  :)

Upon reflection, and despite the issues you have would you say you're a bit fonder of the film then you were initially?

Quote from: Eva on May 31, 2012, 10:04:43 AM
One note - if I'm not mistaken, I think that rythmic thumping sound in the Engineers track is actually the engineers heartbeat or some biological proces. It plays when David listens to his cryotube and you see his chest moving up and down.

Spoiler

I interpreted this scene the same way as you, as if David was scanning the sarcophagous (using his robotic superior senses) and deducted the creature was alive, listening up to the heartbeat. David even seemed to smile because of discovering that fact.

[close]

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on May 31, 2012, 10:25:42 AM
Upon reflection, and despite the issues you have would you say you're a bit fonder of the film then you were initially?

I wouldn't say so, as my hope to start care about characters failed. I'd say I even more sympathized with them on what I saw in trailers. Probably, I just need to re-watch the film again, though...

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on May 31, 2012, 10:25:42 AM
Upon reflection, and despite the issues you have would you say you're a bit fonder of the film then you were initially?

I'm a bit fonder of some of the details I was somewhat... indifferent with, indifferent being a somewhat poor choice of word... neutral is perhaps better. The bigger issues I've mentioned - no, not really. The ending could and should have been better scripted and executed.

More focus should have been pointed towards the last engineer as the 'main baddie' and less on the creatures. The film lacks a scene some 2/3s of the way in, with the surviving main characters having some very serious talks about the ramifications of what they've discovered up until that point and what their options are. As it is now, you've got a scene with Shaw and Janek and a scene with Shaw and Weyland doing essentially that, but imo they are only scratching the surface. I feel like there's a couple of scenes missing in this context.  :)

In your own opinion is there anything about or anyone in this film that you could potentially love? I mean love like we love Parker and Brett, or love like we love the Sulaco? In other words, does this film have its own soul, or is it a hollow spectacle as some of the reviews seem to suggest?

There are definatly things I love about it right now. The character of David and Fassbenders performance. That one grows on me and will continue to grow. I'm questioning and rumbling over how much he's aware of some of the choices he makes, some of his actions in the film - aware from a morally standpoint. Early, it's suggested that he, as an android, have no burdening morals (instant throwback to Ashs last words, describing the xenomorph and the reasons he admired it), but something in Davids response seems to suggest otherwise.

I love the intro sequence as well, early Earth, David walking around on the Prometheus in solitude, very 2001ish. I love how the engineer designs are realized, visuals, sound design, the unsettling sensation when inside the temple and juggernaut.

The film definatly has it's own voice - it's not an Alien ripoff and the ending sends the plot in an entirely different direction than towards 'linking up' with Alien. Hollow spectacle to me is something like Transformers, with absolutely no big ideas, no (human) characters you give a shit about but wanna make you press fast forward whenever they are on screen and then 90% of explosions, CGI and more explosions.

This is not in any way the embodiment of Prometheus - not to me anyway. The big ideas are there, controversial ideas, a couple of great characters and a director that actually cares. I'd much prefer a film wrestling with this, although flawed and not executed as well as you would like, to a film that has no creative ambitions whatsoever, no matter how succesfully it achieves its endgoal to essentially channel a big amount of nothing.  :)

PS: gotta go now or my boss will kill me

Quote from: Eva on May 31, 2012, 11:18:32 AM
There are definatly things I love about it right now. The character of David and Fassbenders performance. That one grows on me and will continue to grow. I'm questioning and rumbling over how much he's aware of some of the choices he makes, some of his actions in the film - aware from a morally standpoint. Early, it's suggested that he, as an android, have no burdening morals (instant throwback to Ashs last words, describing the xenomorph and the reasons he admired it), but something in Davids response seems to suggest otherwise.

I love the intro sequence as well, early Earth, David walking around on the Prometheus in solitude, very 2001ish. I love how the engineer designs are realized, visuals, sound design, the unsettling sensation when inside the temple and juggernaut.

The film definatly has it's own voice - it's not an Alien ripoff and the ending sends the plot in an entirely different direction than towards 'linking up' with Alien. Hollow spectacle to me is something like Transformers, with absolutely no big ideas, no (human) characters you give a shit about but wanna make you press fast forward whenener they are on scream and then 90% of explosions, CGI and more explosions.

This is not in any way the embodiment of Prometheus - not to me anyway. The big ideas are there, controversial ideas, a couple of great characters and a director that actually cares. I'd much prefer a film wrestling with this, although flawed and not executed as well as you would like, to a film that has no creative ambitions whatsoever, no matter how succesfully it achieves its endgoal to essentially channel a big amount of nothing.  :)

Everything you just wrote adds to my theory that in about 10 years, everybody will be able to line this (and it's inevitable sequels) up on their shelf alongside Blade Runner and Alien without it slanting unevenly to one side. Cheers me up.

Finally saw it. Like all critiques, they should be set in context and reflect an opinion as opposed to an emperical fact (IMHO). Therefore I'll keep it short and sweet...

IMO - Prometheus is the best Alien movie since Aliens... It is not as good as Alien, in terms of originality and genuine shock value... it's not as exciting/exhilarating/fun as Aliens. However, it blows every other xeno related movie out of the water. Prometheus is certainly the most beautiful looking Alien movie to date and its production values great. Pure Ridley... and his best movie for a few years.

I feel that my reaction was buffered/tempered somewhat by the earlier review of NGR01... as I was expecting something to be disappointed in (although it does indeed have its flaws... be in no doubt). Check expectations... Prometheus is not the second coming... it's not the perfect xeno movie we have in our heads. However, it's a really good sci/fi movie (which will appeal to a mass audience)...  and it is a really good Alien movie. 8/10

I read the reviews and i've got nothing more to say than

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Femotibot.net%2Fpix%2F4447.gif&hash=f65ea40c86ff1cfc3a37f8dac0647c1805656ff3)

Quote from: NGR01 on May 30, 2012, 02:21:36 PM
Celticant,
Giger did shit on the movie :)
He was let go after a fight with production designer Arthur Max.
The creatures and sets are not his work but inspired by.

Unbelievable. Giger should never bother with these movie people again.  >:(

Quote from: Eva on May 31, 2012, 10:45:16 AM


More focus should have been pointed towards the last engineer as the 'main baddie' and less on the creatures. The film lacks a scene some 2/3s of the way in, with the surviving main characters having some very serious talks about the ramifications of what they've discovered up until that point and what their options are. As it is now, you've got a scene with Shaw and Janek and a scene with Shaw and Weyland doing essentially that, but imo they are only scratching the surface. I feel like there's a couple of scenes missing in this context.  :)

If a sequel is comig and they will go to the Engineer home planet, then i guess they saved the more complex human-engineers fight for hat one. If they would have let only the engineer be the big bad guy at the end of this one, then in the sequel it would look kinda like a recycling. This of course if a sequel is coming and i think it will. They clearely devised and thought about the space jockey culture with the mural and the altar, big giant head, they just didn't showed us what it means, pushed it back probably for the follow up. As in, that will be the center plot of the sequel along with the answers of why did they created us and why they want us dead.

Thanks for you review Eva. Clear headed opinions are difficult to find

Edit.

Ridley said in an interview that a few years ago he couldn't have made some scene at the end of the movie because of the tehnology available. So do you know what that scene is, what is so special about it?

Zuzuki...wrap your text in spoilers.

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

You don't have to be a fanboy to remember this kind of stuff.
My wife doesnt care for this movies and yet she could tell you what happens.
He just went thru all my poqt and quoted me.
Also i find it quite funny that he shows us a sunny south of France since it has been raining like hell and the state declared natural catastrophy there LOL

Here is something i have not adressed at all answer this and you're scott free ;)
I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

What is the bet between Ravel & Chance?
Again it's an important character devellopment device it pops in almost 3 times especially in one of the main moment of the movie so no way you can't rememeber.

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

You don't have to be a fanboy to remember this kind of stuff.
My wife doesnt care for this movies and yet she could tell you what happens.
He just went thru all my poqt and quoted me.
Also i find it quite funny that he shows us a sunny south of France since it has been raining like hell and the state declared natural catastrophy there LOL

Here is something i have not adressed at all answer this and you're scott free ;)
I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

What is the bet between Ravel & Chance?
Again it's an important character devellopment device it pops in almost 3 times especially in one of the main moment of the movie so no way you can't rememeber.

I haven't even seen it and I know what it is.

They bet whether Janek will get it on with Vickers. That and whether she is a robot or not - you know Janek will find out that is. Also - whether the Aliens will be hostile or not. I guess there were!

Definitly agree with Eva you express perfectly what really annoyed me in the movie and what i loved. Glad to see that someone who saw the movie agrees with some of the stuff that annoyed me and that i'm not nitpicking ;)
That opening was trully magnificiant with LIFE playing ( but i said it before).
Agreed also on the fact that they should have focused on the Engineer and forget or even don't have the other creatures.
It has probably the most frustating rushed climax ever but i think there has been major stuff cut

Spoiler

like an actual brawl between Shaw and the Engineer wich would explain the missing shots like Shaw and her axe, her getting thrown against the chandelier and why the Engineer was burned in the trailer

[close]

I said to a friend that despite its flaws PROMETHEUS is by no way a bad movie,  i'll take it over any Battleshit or Transformerde we've been given these last years in term of scifi.
It's an apetizer and i don't get why because there was the means to make a main course. It's there!
I don't agree with the fact that some say "yeah but all will be answered in a sequel" i don't need that those questions answered since most of them have their answers if you pay attention, but why not answer them properly and then open doors to a sequel (wich is what the movie does in its last minutes) but it must also be self suficient, ALIEN does that (and many others). To write a movie already with the sequel in mind without even being sure that there will be a sequel is madness to me.
Like i said what scares me if if the movie is not a hit, Scott will probably not do the sequel himself, but fox will still do it with some new Paul Anderson/strause hack self proclamed ultimate PROMETHEUS fan...

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:41:27 PM
Definitly agree with Eva you express perfectly what really annoyed me in the movie and what i loved.
Glad to see that someone who saw the movie agrees with some of the stuff that annoyed me and that i'm not nitpicking ;)
That opening was trully magnificiant with LIFE playing ( but i said it before).
Agreed also on the fact that they should have focused on the Engineer and forget or even don't have the other creatures.
It has probably the most frustating rushed climax ever but i think there has been major stuff cut

Spoiler

like an actual brawl between Shaw and the Engineer wich would explain the missing shots like Shaw and her axe, her getting thrown against the chandelier and why the Engineer was burned in the trailer

[close]

I said to a friend that despite its flaws PROMETHEUS is by no way a bad movie,  i'll take it over any Battleshit or Transformerde we've been given these last years in term of scifi.
It's an apetizer

All we need now is the extended version on DVD and Blue-Ray ;).

After Eva's reviews and thoughts, my fan rage has definitely subsided a bit. I guess it really was too much to hope for an excellent addition to the series, but I suppose a solid one isn't too bad. I just want to see this goddamn thing so I can write my own review and get it over and done with :laugh:

Quote from: ChrisPachi on May 31, 2012, 10:57:38 AM
In your own opinion is there anything about or anyone in this film that you could potentially love? I mean love like we love Parker and Brett, or love like we love the Sulaco? In other words, does this film have its own soul, or is it a hollow spectacle as some of the reviews seem to suggest?

To get adhered to someone/thing, I beleive, it should take time and several screenings, but as of now, strangely, I feel attached only to the creature, seen at the waterfall (opening sequences). The shot looks magnificent, falling water sounds powerful, and the creature is undescribably glorious...

Spoiler

His blackened eyes, roaring and what he did to himself (willingly or being coerced by those in the alien ship-saucer, who left him there) makes my cringe and feel bad for him... In my opinion this sole episode is more relevant to the film's name Prometheus and directly connected to T.E. Lowrence's phrase "The trick is don't think, it hurts", than all next 120 minuts of the film. But actually seeing all that process of his decaying alive hurts. And now knowing that his death originated the life on the Earth, I just can't help to not like this blue giant.

[close]

Very good but not awesome movie. Noomie, Charlize, Michael, Edris- was great in their perfomanses. Plot has

Spoiler

some questions and reserve on future (It's not a complete story)

[close]

which is not good. Movie has strong direction by Ridley and great design) I'll give it 8 out 10

I could see myself liking Elizabeth and the captain.

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

You don't have to be a fanboy to remember this kind of stuff.
My wife doesnt care for this movies and yet she could tell you what happens.
He just went thru all my poqt and quoted me.
Also i find it quite funny that he shows us a sunny south of France since it has been raining like hell and the state declared natural catastrophy there LOL

Here is something i have not adressed at all answer this and you're scott free ;)
I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

What is the bet between Ravel & Chance?
Again it's an important character devellopment device it pops in almost 3 times especially in one of the main moment of the movie so no way you can't rememeber.

Did you miss the part in my video where I CLEARLY said its been really rainy here? I literally happened to record it right when the sun came out got like only a few minutes THEN it preceded to rain and hail as I was making my review


Also, I did not read any of your posts and honestly im a bit flattered that you think I could make a whole fake movie review of reading a few online spoilers  :D

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 06:49:14 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

You don't have to be a fanboy to remember this kind of stuff.
My wife doesnt care for this movies and yet she could tell you what happens.
He just went thru all my poqt and quoted me.
Also i find it quite funny that he shows us a sunny south of France since it has been raining like hell and the state declared natural catastrophy there LOL

Here is something i have not adressed at all answer this and you're scott free ;)
I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

What is the bet between Ravel & Chance?
Again it's an important character devellopment device it pops in almost 3 times especially in one of the main moment of the movie so no way you can't rememeber.

Did you miss the part in my video where I CLEARLY said its been really rainy here? I literally happened to record it right when the sun came out got like only a few minutes THEN it preceded to rain and hail as I was making my review


Also, I did not read any of your posts and honestly im a bit flattered that you think I could make a whole fake movie review of reading a few online spoilers  :D

BerserkerPred,

Answer NGR01's question regarding the bet between Ravel and Chance.  I haven't seen the film, but NGR01 believes it to be a significant story point, and I believe him.  So, just answer his question and you are off the hook.

Quote from: Qwertify on May 31, 2012, 01:16:58 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

Quote from: bleau on May 31, 2012, 03:03:18 AM

Quote from: Mohawksinspace on May 31, 2012, 12:22:49 AM
ngr01 has debunked thee.


I haven't seen the fricken film and I could answer his question lol
(Curse you spoiler threads!!!!)

A item that ties into the main theme should not be forgotten.

You guys just need to understand he is not at all a die hard fan of the series like we are.  He seems like the casual movie go'er.

You don't have to be a fanboy to remember this kind of stuff.
My wife doesnt care for this movies and yet she could tell you what happens.
He just went thru all my poqt and quoted me.
Also i find it quite funny that he shows us a sunny south of France since it has been raining like hell and the state declared natural catastrophy there LOL

Here is something i have not adressed at all answer this and you're scott free ;)
I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

What is the bet between Ravel & Chance?
Again it's an important character devellopment device it pops in almost 3 times especially in one of the main moment of the movie so no way you can't rememeber.

I haven't even seen it and I know what it is.

They bet whether Janek will get it on with Vickers. That and whether she is a robot or not - you know Janek will find out that is. Also - whether the Aliens will be hostile or not. I guess there were!

You knwo squat mate ;)
This is not it ^^

So BerserkerPred answer the question and please before the movie is released in your country ^^

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 07:14:48 PM
So BerserkerPred answer the question and please before the movie is released in your country ^^

Something tells me he may not be back.   :P

I hate to be cynical...and I may have even given you a bit of a hard time, awhile back, NRG01.  However, you have proven your integrity, and I do appreciate your participation and all the questions you have patiently responded to.  Cheers, mate.

Well i lied about the rain lol.
this thing happened in the north of France lol not the south.
South has been sunny for weeks now lol.

He's probably trying to get that answer from another forum then he will post here...
He has not seen the movie period.
Well he's young he wants the attention lol
He's cute... Well not really... ^^

As for your kind word Thanks mate ;)
I can never hold  grudge BTW.
Also i would like to apologize if i come out like a wiseass sometimes (a lot lol).
First my english is not as good as i wish, i sometime lose the subtilities or the humor in translation.
I've been breathing Alien prequel, Paradise and Prometheus for years now (almost made it to work on it but that is another story lol maybe the sequel ^^) i'm trully passionate about this movie (even if a lot of stuff bothers me).
And as always passion makes you do, think, say stuff fast lol
;)

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

Eh whatever. I know I saw the film and thats all that matters to me :)

I don't have to keep going out of my way to impress people like you whether I saw a damn movie or whether I'm in france or not. I am most definitely in Le Cannet right now, and if the only thing that would convince you that I'm here is a ticket stub or a recording of me inside the theater well then so be it, and I'm sure even those would not have you convinced. I don't have the best memory, which is why i watch almost every film I go see in theaters twice, because id like to catch up on certain details I missed.


Now even though I'm not a HUGE alien fan I've still been waiting for this movie for two years now because I liked who was going to be in the cast and I was interested in what it would be about. I've DELIBERATELY avoided this board for the past six months or so to avoid spoilers and I think it s pretty funny actually that you would accuse me of doing such a thing literally a WEEK before the films official release. There is no way I'm willing to read spoilers for a film I've wanted to see for such a long time just to get youtube hits or whatever.

Now I expected there  to be people who would not believe me obviously but you claim you actually  saw the film also idk what else you want from me to persuade you that I saw it but asking tiny little details about something is, im sorry but, not gonna really hell because I don't have the best memory as I stated before and if you expect EVERYONE to remember every little thing, then I wonder where that will take you in life.


I'm sorry to sound so rude, especially to someone older than me, but I just had to let it out

IMPRESSIONS AFTER SECOND SCREENING OF THE THEATRICAL CUT
After a 2nd screening of this Theatrical Cut feelings are unfortunately the same. Massive deception, confusion and anger. Too much expectations maybe. I really hope It's just a review of a Theatrical Cut. I really hope an Extended Cut will fill the holes and blanks and improve the quality of the film. I want to give the film a chance and I really want to like it but for the moment, with this Cut, I can't. This edit is a shame.

Story: What can we expect from the man who wrote The Darkest Hour ? Nothing of course. Add to this the Lindelof Touch (xxx questions - no answers) and you have a weak and lazy screenplay who just "flew" over the subject, the characters, the mythology... Everything. There is no atmosphere, mistery, philosophy, supense or tensions in this Theatrical Cut. There is no answers. No trip about creation or evolution. Just more and more questions: Who the Engineers really are ? What is this place ? What really happened to them ? Janek has an interesting theory about this but It's just one sentence. Why only one remains ?  What's really in the urns ? What is the black shit ? Why the big head and the green emerald (who seems to interest Holloway) in the urns room ?  Why the Engineer have the sudden envy of destroying mankind and Earth just after waking up from a 2000 years sleep ? Why after being burn by the acid blood of the snake and the black shit, Fifield don't melt and die like the first Engineer but came as a mutant ? Why is Weyland having only 2 days to live ?... so many more questions in a succession of quick scenes who really makes the impressions of huge holes, blanks and incoherences between them with no sensations of suspense or real tensions. Just one example among so many: Fifield came back has a psycho mutant slaughtering some guys. They killed him but nothing more. They directly go to the next scene like if nothing has happened. You don't even know if the other characters are aware of this event. Honestly, It's a shame. And all the characters (except for Shaw, David, Janek and Holloway) don't seems really interested, surprised, fascinated or scared by what they encountered and what's happening. It's weird. One last thing about the story: What's the real point with the Prometheus myth ? Weyland spokes of the return of Prometheus in his speech but nothing more. Apparently he just want to meet his maker before dying. No evil plan behind that. They don't steal anything who can unleash the wrath of the Engineers. David takes a urn but at no moment the Enginner is aware of this event cause he's sleeping. In fact, everything start by accident with the contamination of the air in the urns room by the opening of the door. No story about fury of the gods or whatever. And at the end Shaw and the Android's head are going on a crusade against the Engineers. It sucks. To be honest, I think a lot of the theories from AvP Galaxy members about the plot and the rest were far more interesting than what's in the actual film. The Jockey mythology from Serena Dawn Spaceport is also more interesting. Even the Paradise synopsis has some better things in it. No, the screenplay is definitely too weak I think.

Characters: Same as for the screenplay. Weak and lazy. For me (and apparently most people) there is only two real characters: David and Shaw. Michael Fassbender's is easily the best thing in the film. His performance as David is outstanding. @From Eva: "It's mostly through him and his almost childlike but razorsharp curiosity, the most profound discussions are channeled. Easily my favorite character of the film next to Shaw. It's not really an Ash or a Bishop infused performance – if anything, it's more akin to Roy Batty, speaking with the voice of Peter O'Toole. Think a bit of Ian Holms cold portrayel when it comes to interacting with the humans, fused with a bit of Bishops essentially benign servant nature and then wrap it around with Battys intensity, playful, constantly emitting some degree of inner doubt with small gestures and facial tics. A quite restrained performance." Perfectly said. Shaw characters has some little low points but Noomi is also great in the role. Not exactly the Ripley type but It's close. After thos e two main characters the other ones are just sketches or insipidus characters. Holloway is supposed to be a major character but LMG sucks hard in the role. Idris Elba is perfect (as always) in the role of Capt. Janek with some good scenes (Note: The "Kill Everything ? Do you copy me" quote from the Intl. Trailer is not in the film. Director's Cut ?) and the best theory about what's happening but the character is underused. So sad. Charlize is great as Vickers but looses all interest at the moment we discover who she really is. Can't really judge about Weyland regarding the little time he has in the film but Guy delivers a great performance and he's actually perfect for the role. Fifield has a great moment has a mutant (especially his "entrance") but that's all. They introduced him like some kind of "bad guy" but he's a pussy. After those ones, Milburn, Ford and the rest of the crew are nothing. We don't even know If they are all dead at the end. Last thing, I don't know how to say it but I have the impression that Emun Eliott and Benedict Wong characters: Chance and Ravel seems to exist in a possible Director's Cut of the film. They're almost nothing in this cut but seems to have an existence and presence. I don't know.

SFX/Visuals: All the SFx's in Prometheus are great and perfect. From CG's to Physical effects. Special mention to David's head. Everything is great and works perfectly. The Prometheus ship is beautiful and the CG plans of it are breathtaking. The "human side" design is perfect: Ship interior, suits, equipements... Some of the problems came from the "Alien" side. First, I really like the Engineers designs. Badass. And their faces are really cool. After reflexion, The humanoid type design was the best thing to do. I'm a little bit disappointed with the render of the Jockey's technology. It's Giger/Alien style but not exactly. Not enough details. It looks too smoothie, clean and empty. It doesn't have the real "bone/marble" render of Giger's illustrations, and the design of the temple is a total joke comparing to the impressive designs from the same illustrations made 30 years before. The thing looks like a cave. Now the big big problem: The creatures. It's a total and massive fail. Only the Snake-Hugger has a design who can be affiliate to Giger's creation. The giant tentacle monster sucks really hard and has absolutely nothing to do here. Ridiculous. I really want to know the guy responsible of the creatures designs. Did he knows Giger's work ? And I'm scared of what I'm going to discover in the Art Of Prometheus book. And now to finish the best of the best. The one we will talk about for a long time. The shame of all Xenomorphs. The one I already call "The Abomination". I'm of course talking about The "Jockey-Xeno". Forget the great design from Destroying Angels. We are very very far from that. The creature we saw at the very end of Prometheus is an insult made to Giger's creations, to the original ALIEN film from the same Ridley Scott and to Us, fans. Problem is not the fact that this thing is a "Proto-" or "Pre-" Xeno, but the design itself. It's a shame. Definitely. A retarded design made in two minutes by someone who clearly doesn't know Giger's work and the original Xeno. They have probably take pictures of Grid from AvP as the reference. Supposed to match Giger's beast ? Lol. And the scene itself is an insult. It seems to have been quickly write and made just to put a "Xeno" in the film for the Fanboy Service. And what's pissed me the most about this film. I think this scene is really insulting for ALIEN fans.

Horror/Gore/Violence: R-Rated movie ? I'm not sure. Here in France the film is just restricted under 12. This Theatrical Cut is more of a hard PG-13 I think. Why it's not scary as ALIEN ? Simply because the creatures designs sucks really hard. Because there is no real horror atmosphere in the film. No suspense in the scenes involving those creatures (except maybe for the Snake-Hugger scene).There is also no real impressive gore effects. There is blood in the film but nothing that can justify a real R-Rating. The broken arm ? Not so gory. The guys smashed by Fifield. Same thing. Nothing really impressive here too. Vicker's death ? Ridiculous. Ford and the Guard killed by the Engineer ? He just knock them out. Hardly for sure but they really can be alive. They have scanned Kate Dickie's head but don't know why ? Maybe for the Director's Cut ? I really hope. The scene with Shaw in the Med-Pod is impressive and well made but It's not scary as hell and it absolutely doesn't match at any point with the birth of Kane's son. And all of these creatures doesn't match at any point with the Xenos in violence and brutality. Everything is perfectly executed but really too kind. A DC will change that for sure.

Conclusion: I'm so confused. I hope this cut is not the real deal. I'm close to think that Prometheus has maybe destroyed something. I don't know. At this moment, with this Theatrical Cut, I think that maybe the film shouldn't have been related to ALIEN. At any point. A completely different thing. But the problem is that the film is too connected to Alien to be consider has something different and I don't know if it can be consider as a stand alone movie of the franchise. Maybe. But by the universe he takes place in, some scenes, designs, the Jockeys, the Company, Weyland... It's definitely ALIEN but It doesn't match it. If I had to rate this cut, I'll give it 5/10.

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 07:42:35 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 01:08:30 PM

I know you have not seen the movie but it's fun to pay nonetheless ;)

Eh whatever. I know I saw the film and thats all that matters to me :)

I don't have to keep going out of my way to impress people like you whether I saw a damn movie or whether I'm in france or not. I am most definitely in Le Cannet right now, and if the only thing that would convince you that I'm here is a ticket stub or a recording of me inside the theater well then so be it, and I'm sure even those would not have you convinced. I don't have the best memory, which is why i watch almost every film I go see in theaters twice, because id like to catch up on certain details I missed.


Now even though I'm not a HUGE alien fan I've still been waiting for this movie for two years now because I liked who was going to be in the cast and I was interested in what it would be about. I've DELIBERATELY avoided this board for the past six months or so to avoid spoilers and I think it s pretty funny actually that you would accuse me of doing such a thing literally a WEEK before the films official release. There is no way I'm willing to read spoilers for a film I've wanted to see for such a long time just to get youtube hits or whatever.

Now I expected there  to be people who would not believe me obviously but you claim you actually  saw the film also idk what else you want from me to persuade you that I saw it but asking tiny little details about something is, im sorry but, not gonna really hell because I don't have the best memory as I stated before and if you expect EVERYONE to remember every little thing, then I wonder where that will take you in life.


I'm sorry to sound so rude, especially to someone older than me, but I just had to let it out

Well that was a long speech.  +100 for effort.

Nevertheless...you can't answer NRG01's simple question regarding the friggin' bet between Ravel and Chance. 

Case Closed!

" So BerserkerPred answer the question and please before the movie is released in your country ^^"

Spoiler

they bake a bet about whether Vickers is an artificial human/robot (she's not)

[close]

Happy now?

No, I'm gonna guess youre not

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 07:55:43 PM
" So BerserkerPred answer the question and please before the movie is released in your country ^^"

Spoiler

they bake a bet about whether Vickers is an artificial human/robot (she's not)

[close]

Happy now?

No, I'm gonna guess youre not

If that is the answer, way too late, my friend.  Let me guess, you suddenly remembered it after over six hours?

You've gotta be kidding me. I've spent the last twelve minutes trying to post that! The internet on my phone is extremely slow as hell!

---

I didn't know he posted that 6 hours ago. I just checked now!

Quote from: Cvalda on May 31, 2012, 04:09:16 PM
After Eva's reviews and thoughts, my fan rage has definitely subsided a bit. I guess it really was too much to hope for an excellent addition to the series, but I suppose a solid one isn't too bad. I just want to see this goddamn thing so I can write my own review and get it over and done with :laugh:

Alien 3 was a "solid" addition. Prometheus is a very good addition to the series... and a good standalone sci/fi blockbuster too.

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 08:00:40 PM


You've gotta be kidding me. I've spent the last twelve minutes trying to post that! The internet on my phone is extremely slow as hell!

---

I didn't know he posted that 6 hours ago. I just checked now!

Well, you replied to NGR01's post, in which he asked the question, at 02:49 PM EST.  You even quoted him.  So, at a minimum, you saw it at least an hour ago, yes?

Yes, and within that hour I spent the whole time typing out my stupid rant.when I wa done I went back to answer the question which took 10 minutes and  in of itself.
I'm not on a computer guys, its a bit harder than it sounds.

Ask me something else and I'll answer it

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 08:16:44 PM
Yes, and within that hour I spent the whole time typing out my stupid rant.when I wa done I went back to answer the question which took 10 minutes and  in of itself.
I'm not on a computer guys, its a bit harder than it sounds.

Ask me something else and I'll answer it

BP, I can't ask the questions, I haven't seen the film.  You have to admit, however, some of the delays in your replies to NGR01's questions are a bit curious...but I will give you the benefit of the doubt. 

CASE RE-OPENED.   ;)

Quote from: Darth Vile on May 31, 2012, 08:06:34 PM
Alien 3 was a "solid" addition. Prometheus is a very good addition to the series... and a good standalone sci/fi blockbuster too.

No, Alien 3 was a fantastic addition to the series, at least in extended cut form. ;)

Quote from: Darth Vile on May 31, 2012, 08:06:34 PM

Quote from: Cvalda on May 31, 2012, 04:09:16 PM
After Eva's reviews and thoughts, my fan rage has definitely subsided a bit. I guess it really was too much to hope for an excellent addition to the series, but I suppose a solid one isn't too bad. I just want to see this goddamn thing so I can write my own review and get it over and done with :laugh:

Alien 3 was a "solid" addition. Prometheus is a very good addition to the series... and a good standalone sci/fi blockbuster too.

To me Prometheus destroyed more the Alien series.
Seriously, space jockey is just a human that is supposed to have created humanity?
And Weyland is exactly the same dude as the one in AVP?
It destroyed Alien more than building anything.

Well considering I've been painting the house all day and haven't had anytime to go online until just more, I kinda wish you would.

Quote from: Le Celticant on May 31, 2012, 08:26:18 PM

Quote from: Darth Vile on May 31, 2012, 08:06:34 PM

Quote from: Cvalda on May 31, 2012, 04:09:16 PM
After Eva's reviews and thoughts, my fan rage has definitely subsided a bit. I guess it really was too much to hope for an excellent addition to the series, but I suppose a solid one isn't too bad. I just want to see this goddamn thing so I can write my own review and get it over and done with :laugh:

Alien 3 was a "solid" addition. Prometheus is a very good addition to the series... and a good standalone sci/fi blockbuster too.

To me Prometheus destroyed more the Alien series.
Seriously, space jockey is just a human that is supposed to have created humanity?
And Weyland is exactly the same dude as the one in AVP?
It destroyed Alien more than building anything.

I'm sorry, but that seems like a ridiculously over dramatic view. Prometheus does nothing to undermine the original. If you think it does... too bad. Slap on AVP and enjoy yerself...

Quote from: BerserkerPred on May 31, 2012, 07:55:43 PM
" So BerserkerPred answer the question and please before the movie is released in your country ^^"

Spoiler

they bake a bet about whether Vickers is an artificial human/robot (she's not)

[close]

Happy now?

No, I'm gonna guess youre not

Havent read your rant mate so it was pointless sorry.

This is not the bet they made.
You lied you did not saw the movie lol.
I rest my case.
Bye now.

People think a second viewing right after their first viewing is going to make a big different.  It usuall take me months or years to finally accept some films that I didn't like at first but now totally loved or vice versa.  Give it time.  You have nothing but yourself to blame for spoiling, debating and creating or envision the movies how you think it should all be like for months before the they release the movie.  We still have the blu-ray DC to look forward to and maybe a sequel that might tie everything together so for now I'm happy at least this is a solid sci-fi movie.

no im pretty sure that was the bet :-\

Well I know they mentioned something about her being an android.

unless you're talking about them changing up/engineering the planet they were going to?

But was that a real bet?

---

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 08:40:52 PM

Havent read your rant mate so it was pointless sorry.

This is not the bet they made.
You lied you did not saw the movie lol.
I rest my case.
Bye now.

Well, I don't have to deal with @ssholes like you anymore, telling me what I have and have not seen. I HAVE seen the movie and I don't give a flying fück what you think i did or did not see I KNOW for a fact I watched Prometheus in Cannes and if you're going to treat me like a little kid, quizzing me on things only the major fanboys would remember, then have fun being the first person on this board to meet my ignore list. Toodles! :)

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 08:41:05 PM
People think a second viewing right after their first viewing is going to make a big different.  It usuall take me months or years to finally accept some films that I didn't like at first but now totally loved or vice versa.  Give it time.  You have nothing but yourself to blame for spoiling, debating and creating or envision the movies how you think it should all be like for months before the they release the movie.  We still have the blu-ray DC to look forward to and maybe a sequel that might tie everything together so for now I'm happy at least this is a solid sci-fi movie.

I don't understand this line of reasoning. Discussing the movie and creating expectations about it doesn't ruin the experience. If the movie can hold it's own in regards to plot, acting and whatnot, there is no reason for people to enjoy it for what it is. 

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 08:41:05 PM
People think a second viewing right after their first viewing is going to make a big different.  It usuall take me months or years to finally accept some films that I didn't like at first but now totally loved or vice versa.  Give it time.  You have nothing but yourself to blame for spoiling, debating and creating or envision the movies how you think it should all be like for months before the they release the movie.  We still have the blu-ray DC to look forward to and maybe a sequel that might tie everything together so for now I'm happy at least this is a solid sci-fi movie.

I never had to wait to like a movie.
I never expected a Lord of the Ring movie to end on a sooooo unclosed story (we know they have to destroy the ring and won't before the end. But they don't throw us this purpose at the very end of a movie just for the sake of possibly make another sequel > $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ )
I never expected anything from the movie because all I wanted is the SJ to remain a total mystery.
In a way Prometheus succeed.

Don't think you know a shit about me.  ::)

Quote from: Cvalda on May 31, 2012, 04:09:16 PM
After Eva's reviews and thoughts, my fan rage has definitely subsided a bit. I guess it really was too much to hope for an excellent addition to the series, but I suppose a solid one isn't too bad. I just want to see this goddamn thing so I can write my own review and get it over and done with :laugh:

Oh boy, now I certainly hope you won't hate it to death next week, otherwise I just might recieve angry Winona eyes in abundance, from igniting that tiny shimmer of hope inside you  :)

I can't remember exactly what parts of the film you were most worried about, apart from soundtrack (turned out to be quite allright) and LMG (confirmed to be a knucklehead in this film)....

With regards to compiling a long list of unanswered plot details or otherwise just details in the film, I'll recommend giving it some time and think it over. A couple of potential answers to those questions, might be hinted at or reveal themselves in the context of the film itself. I'll just remind people that Alien gave us an abundance of questions about the spacejockey, his ship and the xenomorphs and it offered absolutely no answers - nada. Did it take away from the film in the long run? No.  :)

Quote from: Truise on May 31, 2012, 08:53:27 PM

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 08:41:05 PM
People think a second viewing right after their first viewing is going to make a big different.  It usuall take me months or years to finally accept some films that I didn't like at first but now totally loved or vice versa.  Give it time.  You have nothing but yourself to blame for spoiling, debating and creating or envision the movies how you think it should all be like for months before the they release the movie.  We still have the blu-ray DC to look forward to and maybe a sequel that might tie everything together so for now I'm happy at least this is a solid sci-fi movie.

I don't understand this line of reasoning. Discussing the movie and creating expectations about it doesn't ruin the experience. If the movie can hold it's own in regards to plot, acting and whatnot, there is no reason for people to enjoy it for what it is.

Yes it does.  I wouldn't probably have the same good feeling reaction that I did withThe Matrix. Inception, Alien or any fine movies out if I was given to much to play with and let it mode into something I I revisit every night in my head that this would be awesome if this and this happen feeling giddy.  When you finally watch it and it doesn't exceed or come close to what you have planted in your head for months.  It a good chance you will be disappointed.  That's why I love back in the days where there were no internet and how you get blown away such movies like Jurassic Park because seeing dinosaurs walking and breathing for the very first time on screen.

The only person that questions Vickers humanity is Janek and he  ask her directly...

They make a bet for 100 credits.
The first time they talk about it it's during the brief.
Then when they see the temples.
Lastly right before their sacrifice.
It's even some sort of punchline.

Like i said no way you missed it.
If you saw the movie.
No need to be an ALIEN fan to notice.
No way you miss it.

No it doesn't.
I wanted to believe that the first AVP was going to be an awesome movie (I was 14 years old) and for me it was going to be a very good film
I saw it and I said... no, this is just bad, I mean awful.

I thought the same about King Kong from Peter Jackson.
For me it was going to be a very very bad movie that I was going to regret compare to the classic.
Failed, I love it.

No bothering replying to me.


I told you I was not sure what they were "betting on" all I remember them talking about is whether they were "terraforming" the planet or not.


I don't remember specific details they said somehting about money but I didn't take that as an actual bet.

I rest my case.

Enjoy the movie when you actually see it.

:)

Thanks for all the Reviews guys^^
It's really good to see that some of you liked the movie. This makes more confident about it.

It looks like it's exactly how i predicted...Very entertain but not near as good as Alien.
Still very excited to watch it  :)

I did see it....



whatever.  I know I saw it and nothing you say can change that. Buh-bye now.

The bet is relative to the subject of the film. You can't miss it.

Ok so you've seen the movie and you have forgotten about this.
The movie is so awesome as you say in your review that it blew your mind AND memory.
That is quite a concern forsomeone as young as you mate :)

Lets find another thing then.
What is DAVID doing when he's watching a movie in the opening scenes where he's alone in the Prometheus?
Again simple question and it's something that you can't forget.

^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 09:05:57 PM

Quote from: Truise on May 31, 2012, 08:53:27 PM

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 08:41:05 PM
People think a second viewing right after their first viewing is going to make a big different.  It usuall take me months or years to finally accept some films that I didn't like at first but now totally loved or vice versa.  Give it time.  You have nothing but yourself to blame for spoiling, debating and creating or envision the movies how you think it should all be like for months before the they release the movie.  We still have the blu-ray DC to look forward to and maybe a sequel that might tie everything together so for now I'm happy at least this is a solid sci-fi movie.

I don't understand this line of reasoning. Discussing the movie and creating expectations about it doesn't ruin the experience. If the movie can hold it's own in regards to plot, acting and whatnot, there is no reason for people to enjoy it for what it is.

Yes it does.  I wouldn't probably have the same good feeling reaction that I did withThe Matrix. Inception, Alien or any fine movies out if I was given to much to play with and let it mode into something I I revisit every night in my head that this would be awesome if this and this happen feeling giddy.  When you finally watch it and it doesn't exceed or come close to what you have planted in your head for months.  It a good chance you will be disappointed.  That's why I love back in the days where there were no internet and how you get blown away such movies like Jurassic Park because seeing dinosaurs walking and breathing for the very first time on screen.

Well, i can certainly understand that but i think that if the movie is good on it's terms, no matter what expectations i had about the movie, i will most certainly enjoy it for what it is.

Case in point, i am not fond of the whole humanoid jockey concept but i believe i can appreciate it if plays right in the movie context.

What most reviewers seem to hint is that plotwise, the movie has very weird inconsistencies that bring the whole movie down. It has nothing to do peoples expectations.

If those things were adressed, i believe that despite whatever were their expectations, people would recognize that the movie was indeed good and delivered what it seemed to promise.

I am not adressing the more subjective things about the movie like it's aesthetics. In that respect, yes, peoples expectation come heavily into play. I am talking about the stuff that no matter what kind of expectations people had about the movie, they just come out wrong.

But what the hell am i talking about ? I haven't even seen the movie.  I am just defending what i believe to be some valid concerns about the plot of the movie that some reviewers are exposing.

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 09:32:05 PM
Ok so you've seen the movie and you have forgotten about this.
The movie is so awesome as you say in your review that it blew your mind AND memory.
That is quite a concern forsomeone as young as you mate :)

Lets find another thing then.
What is DAVID doing when he's watching a movie in the opening scenes where he's alone in the Prometheus?
Again simple question and it's something that you can't forget.

Jesus. Both of you give it a rest already.  I'm pretty sure he have not seen the film yet and not even in France without having to ask him any questions.  How do I know?  His time line/zone posting are totally off in the video and on here.  The room that he's filming is the same room he's in an older video.  I didn't bother to push the case because at least he's not a troll that tries to paint and go around and say "Promeus is shit" all over Youtube. 

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 09:46:39 PM

Jesus. Both of you give it a rest already.  I'm pretty sure he have not seen the film yet and not even in France without having to ask him any questions.  How do I know?  His time line/zone posting are totally off in the video and on here.  The room that he's filming is the same room he's in an older video.  I didn't bother to push the case because at least he's not a troll that tries to paint and go around and say "Promeus is shit" all over Youtube.

It is beyond me, why anyone would want to be deceptive about such a thing.  Don't people have better things to do?  And it is a problem, if BerserkerPred is being deceptive, because he has gone out of his way to post a review on this forum.  If the information is inaccurate, and he is being less than truthful, then this thread should be locked.

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 09:46:39 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 09:32:05 PM
Ok so you've seen the movie and you have forgotten about this.
The movie is so awesome as you say in your review that it blew your mind AND memory.
That is quite a concern forsomeone as young as you mate :)

Lets find another thing then.
What is DAVID doing when he's watching a movie in the opening scenes where he's alone in the Prometheus?
Again simple question and it's something that you can't forget.

Jesus. Both of you give it a rest already.  I'm pretty sure he have not seen the film yet and not even in France without having to ask him any questions.  How do I know?  His time line/zone posting are totally off in the video and on here.  The room that he's filming is the same room he's in an older video.  I didn't bother to push the case because at least he's not a troll that tries to paint and go around and say "Promeus is shit" all over Youtube.

Excuses me for avoiding this kind of beahvior spread.
Funny how it ok to you since he's saying the movie is awesome.
If he said otherwise you would be all over him saying that he know shit...

---

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

It is such an adrenalin rush of a film. All characters are beautifully woven especially David and Vickers. The film is strikingly stand-alone and in many ways deserves to be seen as such. I also felt seeing in IMAX (or 3d) was glorious. Moreover, I have so many questions about the film which I can't wait to read this forums thoughts about as it receives its worldwide release. This is the movie I've been waiting for..for a very long time.

It is a beautiful film.

Just came back from it, I liked it, I would give it 4 out of 5, I felt something shots were missing in the final movie though (which I hate when that happens)

The opening shots are beautiful

The Storm scene was great, wished it would have lasted a bit longer, but this was very intense and suspenseful

Great acting from the leads, but I wanted a bit more Charlize

Ending was a bit predictable

Spoiler

(Xenomorph)

[close]

I have to say that I hate 3D though, it gived me headache and the only thing that looks good on it are the subtitles...burning eyes and weird loopy feelings afterwards. Also horrible that its only available in 3D so you are forced to pay extra for your hangover.

It is such an adrenalin rush of a film. All characters are beautifully woven especially David and Vickers. The film is strikingly stand-alone and in many ways deserves to be seen as such. I also felt seeing in IMAX (or 3d) was glorious. Moreover, I have so many questions about the film which I can't wait to read this forums thoughts about as it receives its worldwide release. This is the movie I've been waiting for..for a very long time.

It is a beautiful film.

I could honestly care who has seen it and who has not.

I'm just not a fan of misinformation for the sake of misinformation.

Here's a review from one of the guy from Prometheus Forum so I don't know if it's allowed here.  Pretty indept:
http://www.prometheusforum.net/discussion/1298/prometheus-movie-review-spoiler-free-by-terraformer (http://www.prometheusforum.net/discussion/1298/prometheus-movie-review-spoiler-free-by-terraformer)

QuotePROMETHEUS REVIEW

In late April I bought 2 tickets for IMAX for a midnight screening of Prometheus on the 31st of May (well technically the beginning of June 1st)   Then at 17:00pm on the 31st of May I check my emails and find one from Cineworld to discover that the midnight showing has been changed from 00:00am to 6pm. Their explanation was something happened to their systems or projector so they moved Prometheus to their 2nd IMAX screen which had no showings between 5pm till 9pm. So thank god I checked my email huh. They also sent me the same message via my mobile phone including the reference code so it was all gravy from there on.

So I arrived at the IMAX theatre in Edinburgh and what I found was actually quite shocking and took me by surprise. I found a queue at least a hundred yards long outside the Cineworld. I waited at the back of the queue thinking great the MIB3, snow white or Avengers crowd have shown up.  But then I realized this was for Prometheus. After getting my tickets sorted we arrived inside the screening and I took my seat facing this giant bitch of a screen. Advertisements came on and went away including one epic trailer for Django unchained which will be my next big hyped up anticipated film to see. Then the screen went black and the words 'Prometheus' came on. The 20th century fox intro came on and I felt like I was witnessing the reincarnation of Christ.

I will wait until later till I do a full review so I will keep this spoiler free

3D

The 3D blew me away like no other 3D film has. It wasn't there as a gimmick but rather to suck you into the depth of field. The 3D made the film so gorgeous to look at. I am telling you this; after watching it in 3D and after the DVD comes out you will miss the 3D aspect to the film. This is the ONLY film that 3D has worked wonder IMO.

CINEMATOGRAPHY

Ridley Scott is the kind of man who liked to be behind the camera but allowing the films cinematographer to take over is a wise decision. He did a wonderful and breathtaking job at it. Each shot in this film truly felt like a timeless painting. You can pause at each and every scene and you could then turn it into a poster. That's just how good it looked. I'm now a big fan of the guy who worked behind the camera for this film. And a bonus for me is that the camera isn't shaky and all over the place like most films nowadays. The camera remains still and the picture remains wide and open so you can take in the scenery and HORROR of the scenes.

CGI

This is a great example of how CGI and practical can coexist. Together for the first time on screen IMO the CGI and practical effects seem embraced and in a loving marriage of one another. The CGI looks so real you'd think it was practical. In fact its hard to tell what is practical and CGI in this film

SETS

One word? EPIC. Truly epic. Each and every set is just truly breathtaking to look at even though some pass before our very eyes without truly examining them. And again the use of CGI truly does wonders in adding to the experience. I did however notice a very Gigerish feel to one of them

MUSIC

There have been doubts about this. I for one wasn't too keen on the soundtrack but I got to say you can't ask for better. Each tune and theme fits absolutely perfect with each and every scene. When the HORROR begins to happen the music is not needed due to the level of intensity of the action but the music helps or Helped me because the music felt like a cold shiver down the back of my spine. Very creepy, hauntingly beautiful music in this film.

ACTING

The acting was perfect and good in this film. I was doubtful about the actor playing Holloway due to leaked scenes but he was pitch perfect in this film. I did not just care for one actor/actress I cared for each and every other actor present in the film. Michael Fassbender has given a truly startling but emotional performance.

DIRECTION

Ridley Scott has made some of the most outstanding films of the last 30 or so years. His strength is in visuals and this is by far his best directional work since blade runner.

CREATURES

Without going into spoiler territory I will say this; the creatures apart from the biomechanoid ones are truly fresh and original in the world of scifi. They look like creatures you'd find here on earth. They are fascinating but yet deadly and blood curling.

SPACE JOCKEY

Is the space jockey smaller or larger than the one in alien? A question we have all asked for months now. Well I'm afraid I cant go into details but you know that tall bald headed dude in the trailers? He ain't what you think

PACING

The pacing was just right. The beginning leaves you with wonder and awe and leaves you with a 'WTF just happened?' expression (in a good way). Ridley scott did what Kubrik and Tree of life did but Ridley did it better. Think of the creation scenes from tree of life and the alien influence monoloth scene from 2001: and then give it steroids and you have the opening scene from prometheus.

The first act of the film is all about discovery, characters, mood, brilliant slow camera work, exploration and big ideas.

The 2nd Act is about contact with something beyond our limits of understanding and things become very unsettling and unnerving. Ridley Scott builds the atmosphere and pace up to boiling point.

This is what this film felt like, a kettle slowly boiling to pressure point.

The final act is just all out chaos. People die (all 17 of them) in very quick order and each death is so brutal and different from each other it adds to the tension. There is explosions and flame throwers involved and many very frightening creatures. The action unfolds very quickly. In fact the final act didn't last very long but due to the pacing and tremendous direction from Ridley Scott it feels that these very quick sequence of events last hours. You will literally BE ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT. Then the ending. Jesus I am trying hard not to reveal but it gives you a very big treat.

And when I say big I literally mean BIG.

I understood the backstory and it even tells us about their gods and xenomorphs but you have to be an alien fanboy like me to understand it. I may be wrong as this was my first screening. I need to analyse this film on DVD to understand everything.

REACTIONS

I was too glued to the screen to notice others but I did a few times hear people whimpering and there is not one but a FEW very shocking shocking scenes that made some people gasp and there were 2 screams. My GF gripped my hand and hid her face in my shoulder 4 times. Leaving the cinema many people including a few university noobs and an old couple were discussing the theme of the film and discussing the possibilities of the ancient astronaut theory. The film did its job. It truly did

FINAL THOUGHTS

Every single plot has been done to death when it comes to scifi. I myself thought the other day, "This film shares similarities with 2001: a space odysey, ATMOM, Stargate and Mission to mars and a small flashback scene from AVP' but I was wrong. When nothing is original anymore Prometheus proves that with the right crew, cast and with a little nudge in the right direction then something original can be done. This film IS the best science fiction film of the decade and even longer. This film will be talked about for a long time. All of the other blockbuster films this year are only a shadow to this film. Since 2009 I waited like an impatient bitch for this film and since January 2012 I have thought about hardly anything else. My quest has been answered and was it worth it? Did it live up to the hype? In my opinion yes it did, for me anyway. People on the forum have complained that it isn't the ben hur of science fiction. But it's better than any scifi film thats came out in this century and its the best film thats came out so far this year.

This wouldn't be a review without a negative or two and every film has negatives. Everyone I know who have been dying to see this film have been expecting this film to be on PAR with Alien and expecting it to delve deep into the human psyche, mythology and philosophy. This is a horror film and it truly is a horror film. Is it a masterpiece? No it isn't but what it is: It's the best science Fiction film ever to graze our screens in the 21st century. 2012 is a big year for movies. We have 3 Great directors this year making 3 great films that will make people remember 2012 and those directors are Ridley Scott, Peter Jackson and Quentin Tarantino, the 3 wise men of cinema. Of course teenagers will be more focussed on the massively overrated 'Avengers Assembles', that film directed by the overrated Nolan with the guy dressed as a rubber condom and speaking like Clint Eastwood with a throat infection. Every mature audience member loved this film but I did talk to some teenagers after Prometheus and I wrote down their reviews whilst pretending to be with the BBC movie review channel (wee idiots believed me)

TEEN 1#: There was too much talking and not enough action.

TEEN 2#: The film was like Pandorum meets Dead Space. I didn't understand the film.

TEEN 3#: This film ruined the alien franchise. Because the big weird alien guys created us. But The alien films explained the Predator race created and ruled us. So major plot hole.

TEEN 4#: Yeah but Tom Hardy was good in this film.

TERRAFORMER: What would you rate this film?

TEEN 2#: It's okay but could do with more action. The Avengers FTW

TERRAFORMER: Right I've heard enough. Piss off ya wee bastards

TEEN 3#: Excuse me?

And that's why this film should never have been PG-13 because teenagers brains are too deluded to watch great films. Of course this is my opinion and everyone has one. As a life long fan of the Alien series I will rank Prometheus as an ever worthy instalment of the Alien franchise even if it doesn't have any links to what happens in Alien. This isn't a spoiler but lets say the events in Prometheus never happened: the events in Alien would still happen. Ridley Scott belongs in the SCI-FI genre and I hope he stays there till retirement. It's a great film and I wasn't disappointed with it. I had doubts due to the negative reviews but look on the bright side, there's been more positive reviews than negative. So go and see the film and make up your own minds.         If you didn't like it then why are you still on a PROMETHEUS fan site whining about it? Just go

GRIPES WITH FILM

Yes I have gripes with it. The film is 2 hours long and gives no explanation for many stuff, like the back story of the engineers (sure it gives us OUR back story but not that of the engineers )

The large head monolith wasn't in the film for too long and it served hardly any purpose. The film is only 2 hours. I'm not a fan of composition in films but I think this film would have benefited with explanation. Maybe an extra half hour or hour where we could get to know other characters such as Milburn, Fifield, the other crew members (mechanics not MERCS). I feel 10 of the crew was just there for cannon fodder. The film could have given us an explanation of the damn planetoid they are going to, yeah some of the crew of the film said its a way station but the general audience don't know that. It doesn't explain the origin of the engineers, who they are, where they came from, what's their purpose, why they created us, have they created other species?. Some major characters are good but their performances are cut short, way too short. LV-422 is a large planetoid and why does this movie only explore one small part of this world? I would have been happy with a 3 hour film that explores many themes and different parts of this world. We are left with the possibility of a sequel but I think the budget will be cut short and doubt a busy man like Ridley will return seeing as he wants to do 3 films right now. I actually think Jon Spaiht's script may have been better. I hope we get a chance to read it online or if its included with the bluray as is the tradition with the alien films.

My final gripe is with Guy Pearce, a brilliant actor. Why is he even in this film? He's too young to play an old man. Why not get an older actor, some actor who's in their 60's or 70's to play weyland, it would make more sense. I did not like the prosthetics for old man weyland, he looked like the old guy from the texas chainsaw massacre. I mean there's plenty of old and great actors out there. Malcom McDowel or even Peter O'Toole would have been great as Peter Weyland and made it more believable.

BUT every film has flaws, the godfather had them, alien had them, 2001 had them and so does prometheus I think; need another viewing to analyse it more.

Overall Prometheus is a grand entry to the alien universe. The alien universe has been in trouble since 1986 (I don't regard Aliens equal to Alien as it turned this monstrous alien into a simple creature instead of ALIEN to what we've ever seen before). The Bluray of Prometheus will look great next to my Alien Bluray DVD.

So Ignore the negative reviews and even the good one's including mine (too late suckas) and go see the film. It's better than any film released in 2012 so far. Plus you get to see a return to form by the man who redefined the genre.

RANDOM UNRELATED NOTE

What the f**k is Guillermo del toro talking about? Yeah At the mountains of madness sounds similar when you read the synopsis and premise but it's FAR from similar on screen. That crazy old bastard better stop using lame excuses and adapt my most beloved book.

SCORE

A perfect 9/10

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 10:25:29 PM

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Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

Absolutely. And I'm maybe wrong but I think  that the shot of Janek saying "Kill everything, Do you copy me" in the first Intl. Trailer is not in the movie. Have you noticed that or I'm nut.

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 10:51:06 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 10:25:29 PM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

Absolutely. And I'm maybe wrong but I think  that the shot of Janek saying "Kill everything, Do you copy me" in the first Intl. Trailer is not in the movie. Have you noticed that or I'm nut.

I don't remember that shot or specific phrase from trailers but he never says such thing in the movie.
Feel free to add it to the new thread in creted about deleted /modfied scenes ;)

Yes. I'm also not sure about this shot.
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/gallery/albums/movies/prometheus/trailer-20120317/normal_finaltrailer042.jpg)

huh this guy havent seen the movie or what?
What he says abut the creatures and the Engineer doesnt compute ^^

All I can say is that I have to see it again. I loved it for sure... but I have to see it again. And then a third time. And then I watch some scenes again, maybe go by them frame by frame.

Because this thing raises a LOT of questions -- more than it answers. Which is fantastic.

Hmmm...after reading all the byplay, I've become suspicious.  ???

If this is indeed a ruse, it reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where George fakes an arm injury and goes so far as to see a doctor.  :laugh:
Only a truly disturbed person would carry it this far.

Perhaps this thread should be locked or deleted entirely.

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 10:25:29 PM

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 09:46:39 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 09:32:05 PM
Ok so you've seen the movie and you have forgotten about this.
The movie is so awesome as you say in your review that it blew your mind AND memory.
That is quite a concern forsomeone as young as you mate :)

Lets find another thing then.
What is DAVID doing when he's watching a movie in the opening scenes where he's alone in the Prometheus?
Again simple question and it's something that you can't forget.

Jesus. Both of you give it a rest already.  I'm pretty sure he have not seen the film yet and not even in France without having to ask him any questions.  How do I know?  His time line/zone posting are totally off in the video and on here.  The room that he's filming is the same room he's in an older video.  I didn't bother to push the case because at least he's not a troll that tries to paint and go around and say "Promeus is shit" all over Youtube.

Excuses me for avoiding this kind of beahvior spread.
Funny how it ok to you since he's saying the movie is awesome.
If he said otherwise you would be all over him saying that he know shit...

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Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

I'm sorry but you're are becoming more annoying than he is.  Yeah we all know you don't like the film.  Don't go preaching it to everyone and in every thread and trying to convince everyone else.  It's how you're doing it.  I don't see the harm in him in doing anything really wrong.  All he did was taking all the positive feed back from the incoming reviews and just relaying or spinning it to his own version which isn't totally out of context or false about the movie .  Even though he lied about seeing it doesn't make him some very bad guy.

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 10:51:06 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 10:25:29 PM

---

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

Absolutely. And I'm maybe wrong but I think  that the shot of Janek saying "Kill everything, Do you copy me" in the first Intl. Trailer is not in the movie. Have you noticed that or I'm nut.

That line sounded like it was from multiple lines cut together though.  Very roughly edited.  Kind of like how the TV spot joined 2 scenes together that were separate - Holloway/Shaw walking and being interrupted by David (before the adventure begins) and Vickers saying, "If you're going down there you're going to die..."

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on Jun 01, 2012, 12:48:45 AM
I'm sorry but you're are becoming more annoying than he is.  Yeah we all know you don't like the film.  Don't go preaching it to everyone and in every thread and trying to convince everyone else.  It's how you're doing it.  I don't see the harm in him in doing anything really wrong.  All he did was taking all the positive feed back from the incoming reviews and just relaying or spinning it to his own version which isn't totally out of context or false about the movie .  Even though he lied about seeing it doesn't make him some very bad guy.

So let me get this straight, my good PROM3TH3US...

You would prefer someone being deceptive, and providing a BOGUS review, as compared to someone who has actually seen the film, and provided their honest impressions and feedback?

Ok it's just after 2:30 am and I just got back from seeing Prometheus, I will put a full review up later but it may take a while to write as I'm dead tired, if anyone wants to fire any questions over the next few  hours feel free.

As for what did I think in general, well I thoroughly enjoyed it actually.  Yes there are some problems, most of which were brought up by our trusty friend NGR01 who was, I repeat was, right about everything that happened and obviously did see the movie, and though I do agree with him on most things I have to say, the movie was better than I expected after all the bad stuff that was going around.

I will be back in a few hours (hopefully) with my review... chow for now!!

Agreed such an amazing film, yes it deserves to be a stand alone film but can definitely see the ties with alien for sure! Loved it....want to watch it again!!!

I'd say the fan reviews are mostly positive..

Gald you enjoy it mate I still have to wait till nextweek for my screening

Awesone to see your thoughts! I can't wait 'till it opens here in the states!

Quote from: Deuterium on Jun 01, 2012, 01:15:02 AM

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on Jun 01, 2012, 12:48:45 AM
I'm sorry but you're are becoming more annoying than he is.  Yeah we all know you don't like the film.  Don't go preaching it to everyone and in every thread and trying to convince everyone else.  It's how you're doing it.  I don't see the harm in him in doing anything really wrong.  All he did was taking all the positive feed back from the incoming reviews and just relaying or spinning it to his own version which isn't totally out of context or false about the movie .  Even though he lied about seeing it doesn't make him some very bad guy.

So let me get this straight, my good PROM3TH3US...

You would prefer someone being deceptive, and providing a BOGUS review, as compared to someone who has actually seen the film, and provided their honest impressions and feedback?

He might be bogus but how is it him taking pieces of the positive feed back and putting it into his own words is any fake?  It like some site taking all the positive feed back and post on their site of people thoughts on a particular film even when the site host haven't seen the  movie yet.  If a person who spew and make up negative comments about a movie they  haven't seen it yet then that person have some kind of agenda.  There's nothing being an optimistic than a sour puss.  I have no problem with NGR01 haven't his own opinion but I just don't like people being preachy about it.  I think his negative comments have pretty much did a whole lot of damage here and adding fuel to the fire but that's not all his fault but the people who nag him to tell them everything.  Now some people willl work in with a chip on their shoulders and will not enjoy the movie because it's already in their mind they don't like it.  But that's not his problem with the people who join that hate band wagon.

This is by far and away the most awe inspiring film iv seen. Im just back from the screening in Leeds and im blown away by the visual feast that was on offer. Never seen such a good looking film, like Avatar but more reality based if you get what I mean. The cinematography was fantastic and the 3D was a pleasure, which I dont normally think. The last 10 minutes the film ran out of steam i felt, however there is one thing that niggled at me. I felt the death scenes were over waaayy too quickly. Im not a fan of gore but i felt like there had been a lot of editing and shortening of the death scenes and removed the horror of much of them

Quote from: NGR01 on Jun 01, 2012, 12:02:41 AM
huh this guy havent seen the movie or what?
What he says abut the creatures and the Engineer doesnt compute ^^

Sorry, you're not the center of the World.  Everyone have their own opinion and take on the movie. 

Just back in from a midnight showing of the film.  Am tired, so will keep things brief and also spoiler free as I haven't read right through this thread to determine the spoiler policy/level allowed.

Did I like the film? Yes I did.  Did I think it could have been better? Yes.

My knee jerk response is that this was a 3 to 4 hour movie edited down to 2hr 3min.  Things just happen, and keep on happening, one thing after another.  It didn't feel like there was enough reaction to each event before the next one.  Extra running time would have allowed for this. 

Some random thoughts:

1. Character development wasn't deep enough.  There were some cracking characters, portrayed by talented actors, but they didn't have enough room to roam.
2. Space Kojak didn't have enough screen time
3. There are some glaring plot holes but that said they weren't fatal
4. It's now obvious to me that too much was given away in the trailers/virals/TV spots.  That said, at the time I lapped them up like a good little fan boy.
5. The sets, design and cinematography were all superb
6. It's been left wide open for Prometheus 2
7. Going in I was skeptical of the apparent "normal-ness" of the SJ but I have to say they look superb and weirdly alien without being outlandish. Subtle, and one of the highlights for me, now I think about it.
8. David steals the show
9. Vickers is underused and her development is non-linear/inconsistent.  It smacked of heavy editing to get down to a run time.
10. Fifield/Milburn were lame IMO. Their character traits were totally inconsistent with people who would have been there in the first place.
11.  Loved Ford's Scottishness!

Enough already.

The thought that keeps coming back to me is that there was too much stuffed into a 2hr film.  It should have had a much longer run time, with better character development and more time for reaction to significant events OR it should have been simpler, with stuff taken out.  I vote for the longer film btw.

So, to exit where I came it.  It's a good film, very good in fact.  But it could have been great.  I can't wait for the Directors Cut!

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 02:09:37 AM
This is by far and away the most awe inspiring film iv seen. Im just back from the screening in Leeds and im blown away by the visual feast that was on offer. Never seen such a good looking film, like Avatar but more reality based if you get what I mean. The cinematography was fantastic and the 3D was a pleasure, which I dont normally think. The last 10 minutes the film ran out of steam i felt, however there is one thing that niggled at me. I felt the death scenes were over waaayy too quickly. Im not a fan of gore but i felt like there had been a lot of editing and shortening of the death scenes and removed the horror of much of them

So everything in the film was great but everyone hated the last 10 minutes

Can I ask some questions for you

How long was peter weyland on screen?
What your favourite character?
Was the ending that bad as people said?

Not writing a review right now because I'm f**king tired, but I can honestly say that I loved every moment of the film. Thought it was visually breathtaking and often very tense. Dozens of little nods to Alien which made me happy, and just overall a great film (obviously, not everybody is gonna like it). The only point I still am digesting, is the final shot. I will be seeing it again to doctor my "weirded outness" but I don't think it was "bad" at all!

I didn't hate the last ten minutes. In fact, I loved the last ten minutes. I just didn't understand the last shot! Don't think it was quite needed. But not bad at all.

I thought the film was fantastic! Cannot wait to see it again!

The Engineers are so f**king cool! I need a Hot Toys figure of one!

Quote from: Stannis Baratheon on Jun 01, 2012, 02:16:29 AM
I didn't hate the last ten minutes. In fact, I loved the last ten minutes. I just didn't understand the last shot! Don't think it was quite needed. But not bad at all.

I thought the film was fantastic! Cannot wait to see it again!

The Engineers are so f**king cool! I need a Hot Toys figure of one!

But it ties in with alien right?

I kinda agree that the last 10 minutes werent the best. As ridley say u defo see the alien dna. But after watching the rest of the film The alien tie in was not needed in my opinion. Didnt real add anything to the story other than a tie in. Could of been done different the last few scenes for sure

Like some of you other guys I just got home after the midnight showing - kind of tired but need to put some thoughts down.  Please - this is just my opinion - go see the movie and make up your own mind.

First of all, I went in to the screening with a completely open mind, with the exception of a massive amount of faith in Ridley Scott. I've read various reviews on here and elsewhere, and tried to dismiss some of the more negative comments. When NGR01 came back tearful and disgusted I just thought, 'calm down darling, get a grip' and then when this board went mental with negativity, particularly towards Lindelof, I just couldn't be doing with it any more.

But, I really thought it was dreadful. I am terribly disappointed, after following the production for two years, watching all the trailers and videos, I was so excited. I'm not gonna cry - I have a sense of perspective, it's just a movie and life goes on. But what a wasted opportunity.
Scott has made a beautifully designed and gorgeously shot piece of drivel.

The script is terrible, in my opinion. The overall plot has (had) some potential. The structure of the movie and the scenes themselves lack all logic, the motivations of the characters make no sense, and some of the dialogue is risible.

I'm not sure if a spoiler tag is warranted here, but best to be safe.

Spoiler

Example of illogical scenes.

The arrival. This trillion dollar ship is manned by a crew who get nothing more by way of a briefing on the mission than 2 minutes of blurb from Charlie Holloway and some laughable inferences from Shaw. To their credit, the others do laugh. I had the same feeling as Ripley when she said, "This is a maximum security prison and you have no weapons of any kind"
Yes, we the audience are indeed "f**ked"

Then they land. Coming down immediately on the valley with the pyramids. Out of how many million square kilometres of the planet's surface? Now, the opening blurb says they arrive on Dec 21 2093 (I think), but when they land Charlie says it's christmas and wants to open his presents. Maybe they spent four days surveying from orbit and the movie is edited badly, or maybe Charlie mis-spoke.
Whichever it is, Shaw definitely signs off the movie on "New Year's day 2094" so somewhere from 7 to 10 days has passed. Funny, only feels like a day and a bit. Certainly only the one night when F and M were stuck in the pyramid. Sigh.

In Shaw and Holloway's quarters, he upsets her by accidentally referring to her inability to have children. Then, to shut her up, they get it on. Mmm, I'd be giving him the cold shoulder. Despite the fact that he is jolly fit - I'd gladly take a dollop of squiddly...
Yeah, anyway, LMG is okay - his character is obviously meant to be slightly twattish, and that's fine - not everyone in movies is meant to be likeable. I would have like to seen more of him though, to understand why Shaw was with him, how their relationship worked, but he ended up being crisped all too quickly.

So, Shaw is to be frozen, but she knocks out Ford and someone else and rushes to the medpod to remove squiddly. Despite it being such an advanced piece of kit, one of only a few in existence apparently, she knows how to work it. Meanwhile, nothing's done to chase her - everyone else calmly gets on with waking up Weyland. When she returns covered in blood, no-one's surprised, no-one asks her where she's been or even if she's alright. It's like, oh f**k, we were gonna freeze you weren't we, duh - just clean forgot. silly us.

Character motivations. Well, where to start. Ravel and Chance commit suicide with Janek because "he's a shit pilot" and then they say they'll collect their bets on the 'other side'. Please. Then Holloway also willingly gets fried. If I was infected and in pain I'd be screaming for someone to help me - get me to that amazing medpod (that you can work Eli), but work like f**k to keep me alive. Don't burn me to death... HELP ME.
Fifield and Milburn. Why?  So, a geologist, even a slightly balmy geologist, shouts right in the face of a meek woman after ten minutes in a dark tunnel because there are no rocks for him to look at? Then, as others have pointed out, the guy responsible for mapping the tunnels gets lost!

And when things start to go pear shaped, there's no evidence of a command structure or of mounting a logical response to events, even though they apparently occur over several days. When F and M are lost in the pyramid during the storm, the most helpful thing that Janek can offer is a suggestion that they shouldn't bugger each other. I mean, WHAT?  You said WHAT??

Other niggles.

Peter Weyland. Why is he played by Guy Pearce? The makeup is terrible. Get a decent old actor.

The new xeno - looks like Sil. Shit.

Little squiddly looks cool. Big squiddly you don't see too well.  I'm not sure what these creatures add to the movie at all.

[close]

God, that's it, I'm going to bed. If I think of anything else I'll add it later, I just had to unload.

Drivel???  Yeah, get some sleep. :)

Quote from: r888 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:14:36 AMSo everything in the film was great but everyone hated the last 10 minutes

Can I ask some questions for you

How long was peter weyland on screen?
What your favourite character?
Was the ending that bad as people said?

1. About 10-12 mins.

2. David, he and Shaw are the only two characters that felt fully realised to me. The rest are charicatures and cannon fodder essentially.

3. Yep the ending is truly cringeworthy. Getting rid of Giger was a huge mistake, but doubt even one of his superb designs could have saved the final scene.

Spoiler

The new chest burster looks just like the black creature from Predators, with an elongated skull.

[close]

Maybe my opinion of this movie will improve with a few more viewings. It does look fantastic, but at the moment seems like a masterclass of style over substance, and a two hour build up for Prometheus 2.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 02:28:19 AM
Drivel???  Yeah, get some sleep. :)

Oh, you've seen it Bethesda? :)

Lolz...no...just giving him a hard time, hence the emoticon.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 02:28:19 AM
Drivel???  Yeah, get some sleep. :)

Like I say, only my opinion. I'm aware you have a positive feeling towards the film, which is great, and I genuinely hope you enjoy it. I hope everyone enjoys it. But I'm afraid I did not.

I really wish I didn't feel this way about it. I was soooo looking forward  to it.

Bum

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 02:31:31 AM
Lolz...no...just giving him a hard time, hence the emoticon.

I knew that :P I was just giving you a hard time. ;D

Well I'm annoyed ... the trailers and TV spots gave literally everything away.

If it's any use at all - the design, the cinematography and effects were immaculate. They might just have built a trillion dollar starship and filmed on LV-223 it looked that good.

Here's my question... Most big budget movies I saw recently that I didn't like (Cowboys and Aliens, Green Lantern) were dreadfully boring. Was anyone bored by this movie?

I wouldn't say I'm positively predispositioned to like the film, I'm just cautiously optimistic. I just read 5 glowing reviews of the film from other UK residents....such a dichotomy.

The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Can't wait to read it, Valaquen. Really appreciate your take on the franchise in general. :)

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 02:43:43 AM
The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 02:43:43 AM
The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Editing...Haven't we heard that before?  I'm more anticipated for the Blu-ray sets with the longer DC. 

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM
Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

Film has probably been severely trimmed to get a two hour runtime (ala ALIEN 3) for more showings per day, I'd imagine. That R rating was likely a double-edged sword.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 02:41:30 AM
I wouldn't say I'm positively predispositioned to like the film, I'm just cautiously optimistic. I just read 5 glowing reviews of the film from other UK residents....such a dichotomy.

Okay, cautiously optimistic (a good description of my feelings too before tonight). I hope you like it I really do. As for the dichotomy, I don't necessarily find that strange; it would probably be true of most things in life that different people have different feelings about various things. I, for instance, think Charlie Brooker is a comedy genius, and one of my colleague swishes he would curl up and die. A dichotomy, and perfectly understandable.

I hope that a dichotomy in our views of Prometheus will remain after you see it.

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on Jun 01, 2012, 02:50:17 AM

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 02:43:43 AM
The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Editing...Haven't we heard that before?  I'm more anticipated for the Blu-ray sets with the longer DC.

If there is a directors cut, that will not fix the overall editing. Yeah, it might help a few scene transition better, but I don't think that's the problem here.

Quote from: Cvalda on Jun 01, 2012, 02:50:43 AM

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM
Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

Film has probably been severely trimmed to get a two hour runtime (ala ALIEN 3) for more showings per day, I'd imagine. That R rating was likely a double-edged sword.

And now we have to wait for the Blu-ray release for the intented version, if they even give us an extented cut. Double edged sword indeed.

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 02:43:43 AM
The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

LOL, I was about to write that in my other post but I wasn't sure if he is using the same editor all these years.  Same problem with him sticking with Marc Streitenfeld after dropping Zimmer.  I guessed it's true Ridley is a puppet master and will only work well with the people who will do his bidding without confrontation.

Just came back from this and here are some quick thoughts.

[HERE BE SPOILERS!]

This was a bit hit and miss, in my opinion. I really liked the cast and especially Fassbender delivered a great performance. Rapace and Theron were good as well and I also took a liking to the characters Fifield and Millburn. The opening was my favorite part of the movie and I really liked what they did with the Engineers, even if the movie didn't really answered any of the questions about them the main characters had. Holloway was a total douche and I wasn't the least bit sorry to see him go up in flames. I must admit that I'm very disappointed about the way they killed off Vickers however. It felt like such a waste and I would much rather have seen her survive along with Shaw.

I loved the look of the movie, it was beautifuly shot. The design of both the Engineers and some of the creatures were great. Don't really know what to make of that last shot though, the look of that thing didn't really sit well with me. Looked kinda fake, to be honest. Same goes for old man Weyland, that wasn't very convincing.

It wasn't a bad movie though and I'm looking forward to seeing if the Director's Cut can solve some of it's problems.

You'll have to excuse this post. It's half past three in the morning and I am shattered.

After a half hour drive home (and some intense thinking) I've decided to remove my initial reaction and start afresh. My gut feeling upon walking out was disappointment. Now I'm tucked up in bed my feelings are shifting slightly. Flawed or not, you have to tip your hat to 20th Century Fox for giving this a summer release. I've been left with existential thoughts I highly doubt any other 'blockbuster' will come to for years.

The first fifteen mintues are some of the best I've ever seen from Ridley. Absolutely jaw dropping. It kills me that I cannot say the same about the ending.

Honestly though, people on this thread have expressed their feeling far better than I could hope.

A word of warning though, those expecting anything close to an Alien film (any of them) will be severely let down.

As for the 3D? This film (personally) is the best I have ever seen it used. You'd be doing yourself a massive injustice by seeing this film in 2D.

Goodnight  :)

Quote from: Laufey on Jun 01, 2012, 02:56:10 AM
Holloway was a total douche and I wasn't the least bit sorry to see him go up in flames.

:)

<3

Quote from: First Blood on Jun 01, 2012, 02:53:15 AM

Quote from: Cvalda on Jun 01, 2012, 02:50:43 AM

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM
Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

Film has probably been severely trimmed to get a two hour runtime (ala ALIEN 3) for more showings per day, I'd imagine. That R rating was likely a double-edged sword.

And now we have to wait for the Blu-ray release for the intented version, if they even give us an extented cut. Double edged sword indeed.

I thought Ridley and other people at FOX said that there wasn't a whole lot if any cut out...?

Just back from the midnight showing up in Leeds and i have to say, overall, im very pleased with Prometheus.
I have never seen a more beautiful piece of modern film making, and i would say that the cinematography is even better than the likes of Lord of the Rings. I even found that the 3D is very effective in immersing you in the film, it is done just as well if not better than Avatar. The 3D especially helped with the lighting in the Juggernaut, the interior 3D shots are very good. Prometheus is no doubt a treat for the eyes.
Having read many reviews by other members and critics my chief concern going into the film was a lack of characterisation in some of the characters, however i think this has been blown out of proportion. We learn about the characters who matter. Shaw and David are the two strongholds to the story, and their relationships with Holloway and Vickers respectively, are crucial to the story. Other charcaters such as Janek, Fifield and Milburn are all well rounded character who we come to like (Idris Elba is a f**king badass in this). While other characters such as Chance and Ravel are also given sufficient screen time for the audience to understand their bond and relationship, however I would have preferred a little more time with them because when they meet their fate you dont really give too much of a damn. The rest of the crew are just canon fodder and i wouldnt expect them to be fleshed out. What i will say, and i will come back to this, is that its quite obvious the film has been slimmed down, and i feel that the majority of the slimming has cut out quite a bit of character interaction.
I found the score somewhat underwhelming, however it did keep the pace of the film and the tension was high enough to be able to feel it in the cinema so i guess it served its purpose on that level. I put my disappointed down to the fact that i watched Alien recently.
Story wise, i thought it was very well rounded. It did ask a lot of questions and few were answered however it is obvious that Prometheus is a 'To Be Continued' film. I don't particularly have a problem with that because the film can stand alone, its just the last minutes are there as a set up for the sequel. This is not a bad thing in my book. Although not all the answer are given, Prometheus is a sturdy story, not spectacular but doesn't indulge itself too much and come off the rails. It never loses focus and drives steadily right up until the end. As i said before a sequel is necessary to wrap up the story, and thinking back Prometheus is almost definitely written as a two parter, which i find encouraging. This means that Ridley already knows the story to part two, this means we know at least the film has direction.
The true negative i have about Prometheus is the editing, or more specifically the editing choices that were made. Throughout the film it felt like we were missing out on dialogue between characters and as though scenes were missing. I think the film would have benefited greatly from cutting the last 10 minutes or so off and spreading it around the rest of the film. I found that many of the death scenes were not long or gory enough. Now im not a fan of the whole 'Saw-gore' that is around these days, however , like most adults today it takes a lot to shock or scare me. I'm not saying the film wasn't scary but if felt that death scenes should have been longer, case in point Fifields death, it just didn't have the blow that it should have. Everyone was raving about this being an R-rated by the MPAA and 15 over here, this lead me to the question watching the film, was this film actually shot as an18? I call bullshit on Rothman saying it that not one shot was cut. It is obvious many shots were cut. There's no doubt the DVD will be an 18 certificate because watching the film i had the feeling like scenes had more to give. I believe that Prometheus was cut from being an 18 (NC17) to a 15 (R), and Fox thought this would please the fans.
On an ending note, never have i enjoyed a single character as much as i did tonight. I genuinely looked forward to seeing David. Fassbender puts in a scene stealing performance, however its the character i fell in love with. David's child like behaviour and thirst for knowledge and endearing. The depth that was written into David is most impressive and I have to congratulate Spaihts and Lindelof on creating this character for us. I also very much enjoyed the look and presence of the engineers. They were both human and alien at the same time. Their symmetrical faces were unnerving and they have been created into genuinely disturbing characters. I think the film did well not to tell too much about them as a race a that removes the mystery and the terror behind them (Much like Aliens- Xeno + Queen = Bug). Prometheus, for me personally is a triumph. Whilst not perfect it shows Ridley Scott is one of the greatest visual directors to grace film, i just feel lucky im around to see what he creates.

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:58:13 AM
I thought Ridley and other people at FOX said that there wasn't a whole lot if any cut out...?

Why would they say if there was? That would be bad for box office.

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:58:13 AM
I thought Ridley and other people at FOX said that there wasn't a whole lot if any cut out...?

True, but one thing I keep seeing pop up in these reviews are issues with the editing. So it makes me think there's more than what was shown onscreen.

I wonder why Guy Pearce was stating his Weyland character was only in the film for "about a minute" then.

Lets play Devils advocate....I liked Charlie Holloway.   ;D

He's an arrogant prick. But that is his character.

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on Jun 01, 2012, 02:56:00 AM

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 02:43:43 AM
The film's good ... it is ... but its worst enemy is the editing, which really kicks the legs out from under it. I'll write a review.

Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

LOL, I was about to write that in my other post but I wasn't sure if he is using the same editor all these years.  Same problem with him sticking with Marc Streitenfeld after dropping Zimmer.  I guessed it's true Ridley is a puppet master and will only work well with the people who will do his bidding without confrontation.

Spoiler

It's really only the final 20 minutes that looks severaly edited, everything else was fine and looked great, the Squid thing was hard to see most of the time but looked ok the Xeno-Burster isn't as bad as some say, but it really just seems out of place

[close]

Quote from: Virgil_uk on Jun 01, 2012, 03:02:23 AM
I feel like should play devils advocate here....I liked the character Charlie Holloway.   ;D

He's mine  :-*

Quote from: r888 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:14:36 AM

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 02:09:37 AM
This is by far and away the most awe inspiring film iv seen. Im just back from the screening in Leeds and im blown away by the visual feast that was on offer. Never seen such a good looking film, like Avatar but more reality based if you get what I mean. The cinematography was fantastic and the 3D was a pleasure, which I dont normally think. The last 10 minutes the film ran out of steam i felt, however there is one thing that niggled at me. I felt the death scenes were over waaayy too quickly. Im not a fan of gore but i felt like there had been a lot of editing and shortening of the death scenes and removed the horror of much of them

So everything in the film was great but everyone hated the last 10 minutes

Can I ask some questions for you

How long was peter weyland on screen?
What your favourite character?
Was the ending that bad as people said?

he was only in it for about 10 minutes however he does play a big role still in the plot.
David was fantastic i smiled everytime he was on screen, bot mischievious and calculated.
The ending just seemed tacked on somewhat. the film runs smoothly right up until the last 10 mins and then your like... Doohhhhh. Didnt need it all to be honest.

DONT TELL ME WHO IT IS BUT.....IS THE SECOND ANDROID REVEALED?

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:58:13 AM

Quote from: First Blood on Jun 01, 2012, 02:53:15 AM

Quote from: Cvalda on Jun 01, 2012, 02:50:43 AM

Quote from: Prime113 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:46:37 AM
Hmmmm. That is strange. Almost everyone has said the editing is pretty awful, so I looked up who did the editing, and its the same guy Ridley has used for 15 years. Wonder what happened.  :-\

Film has probably been severely trimmed to get a two hour runtime (ala ALIEN 3) for more showings per day, I'd imagine. That R rating was likely a double-edged sword.

And now we have to wait for the Blu-ray release for the intented version, if they even give us an extented cut. Double edged sword indeed.

I thought Ridley and other people at FOX said that there wasn't a whole lot if any cut out...?

That's what they want you to believe.  Ridley like he said is also a business man.  You either play the right card or the wrong card and they might have play it safe and worried that it might be too long and boring and want to push the movie along.  I still haven't forgotten what Fox make Ridley do to Kingdom Of Heaven so I don't trust Rothman.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 03:05:57 AM
DONT TELL ME WHO IT IS BUT.....IS THE SECOND ANDROID REVEALED?

Alright, there is an answer for this. Spoiler though...

Spoiler

There isn't one.

[close]

not so much the dialogue but did anyone else think the deaths were cut short of how they were intended to be seen, all of them were over far too quick with little or no reaction,

Spoiler

even Holloways death was quick

[close]

. the pacing was a bit too quick i felt.

Spoiler

I actually really came to like Holloway, and LMGs acting was convincing especially towards the end of his characters life.

[close]

hfeldhaus,

You might want to throw some spoiler tags over that post pal  :) some people haven't seen it yet!

sorry, noting too revealing tho  ;)

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 03:10:30 AM
not so much the dialogue but did anyone else think the deaths were cut short of how they were intended to be seen, all of them were over far too quick with little or no reaction, even Holloways death was quick. the pacing was a bit too quick i felt.

I actually really came to like Holloway, and LMGs acting was convincing especially towards the end of his characters life.

Spoiler

The Hammerpede attack on Milburn was definately cut short, and the part where it's supposed to come out of him and get into someone else (Ford I think) has actually been changed, now the creature just goes back into the ooze

[close]

For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

i am in no way disappointed with Prometheus, its a great film and lives up to the hype in my opinion. It doesnt really step on the toes of alien that much apart from the ending. This is a stand alone film for sure.

---

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 03:17:29 AM

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 03:10:30 AM
not so much the dialogue but did anyone else think the deaths were cut short of how they were intended to be seen, all of them were over far too quick with little or no reaction, even Holloways death was quick. the pacing was a bit too quick i felt.

I actually really came to like Holloway, and LMGs acting was convincing especially towards the end of his characters life.

Spoiler

The Hammerpede attack on Milburn was definately cut short, and the part where it's supposed to come out of him and get into someone else (Ford I think) has actually been changed, now the creature just goes back into the ooze

[close]

Spoiler

Fifields was too,unbelievably short. Do you feel, like me, that the film held back on the gore and horror level? i really felt like i was watching an 18 cut down to a 15!

[close]

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Not at all. If anything (personally), it just adds to the mystery. In fact, with a few hours to dwell on it, it really adds someting to the whole franchise. I won't divulge further  :)

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Spoiler

The only things that bothered me was the editing of the last 20 minutes in which its obvious things are missing, and the pointless Xeno burster, which didn't look that bad, just totally out of place.  Overall I was satisfied, it's clearly a prequel that's trying to be something grander, but in the end the movies near downfall is that final scene which just didn't need to be there

[close]

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Not at all. I would have no issue with a certain amount of revisionism or ret-conning (or whatever it's called), or even coming up with explanations for things in Alien. I don't see anything in Prometheus tainting Alien at all.

My issue is totally and utterly to do with what I perceive as a bad execution of the story - not of the filming or the performances (Fassbender remains my favourite actor of recent times), but the script. Illogical scenarios, illogical character behaviour and poor dialogue.

In my opinion.

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 03:25:56 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Spoiler

The only things that bothered me was the editing of the last 20 minutes in which its obvious things are missing, and the pointless Xeno burster, which didn't look that bad, just totally out of place

[close]

Spoiler

Yeah, that scene did nothing for me at all. It felt like somebody mentioned at the last minute to throw something a little 'Alien' in the film.

[close]

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 03:26:21 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Not at all. I would have no issue with a certain amount of revisionism or ret-conning (or whatever it's called), or even coming up with explanations for things in Alien. I don't see anything in Prometheus tainting Alien at all.

My issue is totally and utterly to do with what I perceive as a bad execution of the story - not of the filming or the performance (Fassbender remains my favourite actor of recent times), but the script. Illogical scenarios, illogical characterer behaviour and poor dialogue.

In my opinion.

Yeah some of the dialogue was corny but nothing that you shake your head at in shame. A lot of people are hating on Logan marshall green but i actually thought he did a pretty good job

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 03:28:52 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 03:26:21 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:20:38 AM
For all that have seen the movie and were disappointed by it, do you feel the same way about Prometheus as the SW prequels?  In your opinion, was it that much of a tainting to the original Alien films?

Not at all. I would have no issue with a certain amount of revisionism or ret-conning (or whatever it's called), or even coming up with explanations for things in Alien. I don't see anything in Prometheus tainting Alien at all.

My issue is totally and utterly to do with what I perceive as a bad execution of the story - not of the filming or the performance (Fassbender remains my favourite actor of recent times), but the script. Illogical scenarios, illogical characterer behaviour and poor dialogue.

In my opinion.

Yeah some of the dialogue was corny but nothing that you shake your head at in shame. A lot of people are hating on Logan marshall green but i actually thought he did a pretty good job

Yes I liked LMG too!  He's a kind of sweet but cocky guy, who I think does a fine job with what little he has.

However, do we really need to hear Janek telling Fifield not to 'bugger' Milburn while they're lost?
Other lines do make cringe - "My job is to make sure you do yours" Yuk
"I'll collect on the other side"  bleugh
"They mostly come at night. Mostly"  Oh christ... oh hang on

Spoiler

There's also Janek and Vickers..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18TLHhhHZCA# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18TLHhhHZCA#)

[close]

Well, at the risk of bringing down the wrath of some other contributors, I have no idea what the point of Vicker's character was. I think the movie would have worked equally well without her.

Quote from: Virgil_uk on Jun 01, 2012, 03:38:20 AM

Spoiler

There's also Janek and Vickers..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18TLHhhHZCA# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18TLHhhHZCA#)

[close]

arrrrgghh yeah, thats was just awkward watch, felt really really forced. like someone said the stories there its just done in a lazy way at some points. And why did Idris not just use his 'StringerBellBaltimore' accent. Its fine in this but meh...

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 03:40:43 AM
Well, at the risk of bringing down the wrath of some other contributors, I have no idea what the point of Vicker's character was. I think the movie would have worked equally well without her.

Spoiler

Vickers was a torn character in the end, between being a natural leader and getting a job done, who sought to do the right thing when it mattered. Her character was far too underused and she should have lived for me. She was obviously opposed to her fathers motives for the mission but cared a great deal for him too. 

[close]

Wow.

Back from the 00.10 screening at the Glasgow cineworld and let me just say I am amazed! It had one of the greatest openings of any film I have ever seen, the 3D was absolutely gorgeous and was without a doubt the best I have seen in the format. Visually, the film is pure candy to the eyes, shoot in a truely stunning manor surpassing Alien itself. My biggest compliment however is David, Fassbender simply steals the show. My only real complaint is what happens in the last 30 seconds, the open ending itself was fine but

Spoiler

The proto-alien looks pretty bad, the human like teeth I loved but the whole shape and colour just felt off.

[close]

I did have the misfortune of seeing it with 2 friends whose opinions can be summed up as "was alright, too hyped though." and it was very hard for me not to show my excitement.

Just re-watched ALIEN before writing this and I'm honestly not sure what is the better film. No I'm not giving it a score out of ten my opinion on it should be plenty clear without having to number it.

Ok, just woke up.

First off, I did see the film, can't understand why that's so fúcking hard for you guys to understand...

and I filmed myself in the guest room, a room I have NEVER filmed in before, so idk why you thought i have...

Spoiler

David was dying his hair blonde while watching LoA

Even though I can't remember that many SPECIFIC small details about the film, I remember the dialogue being a bit cheesy at times like when Shaw says something about those "fancy super surgery bay thingys" and Vickers responds with "there were only 12 of them ever made" for some reason that just made me roll my eyes or when she says "he turned the camera off on me" I was like DUUUHHHH those were really the only lines that kinda urked me, most the other lines I was alright with
(loved David's line he gives to the Space Engineer before it gets pissed just wished I could remember it)

Also I was fine with a lot of the "unsolved mysteries" like why the Engineers created Human Life and then exterminate them later....I just hope they address that in the sequel.

ALSO IDK why right as Vickers is killed she seemingly runs INTO/UNDERNEATH the thing that lands on her? I thought that was kinda weird.

And Fifield (whatever his name was) as a mutated person was a bit weird-looking to me I could have done without that.

I will admit that the Weyland twist (him wanting the Engineers' powers/abilities and being Vickers' father) I did not see coming, even though I probably should have.

But in the long run I was still fine with most the stuff I've heard complaints about.

[close]

Just got back from seeing Prometheus...

First you know when you have a film thats average and another that is awsome? Well  Prometheus fits somewhere between them 2 categories. Its not average but it is also not awsome. I would say some were in the safe zone.

The good and bad
,
.
!!!!SPOILERS!!!!
.
.
.
.

Spoiler

Good:
It looks amazing.

Most of the Actors are great, i would say about 85% of them played there roles pretty well. Michael Fassbender was my favorite.

Inside the pyramid/engineer ship was awsome.

The engineer(s) looked good, i was thinking that a humanoid jockey dude would look pretty silly but i was shocked that he looked pretty dam good.

The ancient astronaut theory i dig. But with this type of film some will hate the idea that us humans came from the jockey race. But i like how Shaw still holds on to her cross and says something on the lines of who was the Jockey's creator. (well something like that)
When Shaw removes that squid looking thing from her belly it was great and tense.
I was glad we did get to see a form of xeno at the end of the film, even if it was just a 10second money shot for the fans.

Bad:
Music felt wrong, it was defo on the other end of the spectrum then what the score from Alien was. However dont get me wrong, the music itself was good it just felt it should of been in a differnt film. I did hear some music/sounds from Alien in Prometheus but it was very short lived. Also i felt the score(s) were sometime over used in parts of the film that would of been more tense if the was no music at all. (watch Alien and Aliens and even JC The Thing and you will know what i mean.)

The actor who plays Ford her accent was annoying. (personal option)

More engineer time would of been nice

WTF was that thing that came from shaw when it attack the jockey? i would not say it was bad, i just do not know what to think of it?

Overall:

I liked it but i am defo going to have to rewatch it afew more times to give my final verdict, but for now it is defo on the positive side. Prometheus was never going to be what Alien was, because the thing that worked for Alien was its mystery and horror. Every one of us on this forum pre Prometheus had our own ideas and theories of what the Jocky was, and why was the Alien created? Prometheus gives us a little taste of this, some of it works well and some of it leaves more questions than answers.

I like the way at the end of the film Shaw and David set sail to the jockeys homeworld, but you are left thinking is that the Derelict ship that somehow ends up on LV426? f**k knows cos Scott leaves all doors open and this is a good thing because it leaves Ripleys story alone, but at the same time making other possibilities for a sequel to a prequel. I just wish Prometheus was more darker like Alien was, but for what it was it was a safe ride. :)

Why typing this just now, i had the perfect thought of how to view Prometheus. It is like being a horny virgin and your hormones are raging to get your leg over. Then you finally get your leg over and done the deed, But it was never as awsome as your imagination wanted it to be, but the dirty deed was overall good. :D

Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

[close]

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 04:56:56 AM
Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

In my local (Chatham) there was some restrained clapping and whooping when the BBFC card came up, and stony silence at the end. No idea what anyone else thought (I was there alone, and most others were in big groups, mostly late teens and about three people my age - 40 - or older), but there was no clapping.

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:01:54 AM

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 04:56:56 AM
Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

In my local (Chatham) there was some restrained clapping and whooping when the BBFC card came up, and stony silence at the end. No idea what anyone else thought (I was there alone, and most others were in big groups, mostly late teens and about three people my age - 40 - or older), but there was no clapping.

Might be a area thing. i am from middlesbrough and had go to newcastle to watch it on the IMAX and its the first time i heard clapping at a end of a film. not everyone was clapping but a good few were. However people were going mad CLAPPING over the Spiderman trailer it looked pretty cool in 3D.

2 questions for those of you who have seen it:

Spoiler

How far into the film is Vickers's death? :'(

[close]

Spoiler

Is her death a result of being heroic and perhaps saving Shaw who had fallen?  Or does she just not manage to outrun the rolling derelict?

[close]

I'm not expecting very accurate answers and it would help if more than one person can answer me because then I have a better idea.

Spoiler

I'm so disappointed with the way such a badass character dies. >:( So I want to prepare myself for further disappointment if she's not in the film much.

[close]

Quote from: Vickers on Jun 01, 2012, 05:21:59 AM
2 questions for those of you who have seen it:

Spoiler

How far into the film is Vickers's death? :'(

[close]

Spoiler

Very close to the end - she's on screen a lot, but I'm not convinced her character is necessary. Charlize does a good job with what she's given though.

[close]

Spoiler

Is her death a result of being heroic and perhaps saving Shaw who had fallen?  Or does she just not manage to outrun the rolling derelict?

[close]

I'm not expecting very accurate answers and it would help if more than one person can answer me because then I have a better idea.

Spoiler

I'm so disappointed with the way such a badass character dies. >:( So I want to prepare myself for further disappointment if she's not in the film much.

[close]

Spoiler

Very close to the end - she's on screen a lot, but I'm not convinced her character is necessary. Charlize does a good job with what she's given though.

[close]

Spoiler

Nope, it's a gratuitous trip and squish.  She manages to escape the Prometheus in an escape pod, crash lands on the surface, only to be snuffed out moments later. What was the point? Why not give her a noble and heroic end commanding the Prometheus to the last?

[close]

Sorry

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:30:39 AM

Spoiler

Nope, it's a gratuitous trip and squish.  She manages to escape the Prometheus in an escape pod, crash lands on the surface, only to be snuffed out moments later. What was the point? Why not give her a noble and heroic end commanding the Prometheus to the last?

[close]

Because they needed that trailer shot. ::)

Quote from: Cvalda on Jun 01, 2012, 05:33:34 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:30:39 AM

Spoiler

Nope, it's a gratuitous trip and squish.  She manages to escape the Prometheus in an escape pod, crash lands on the surface, only to be snuffed out moments later. What was the point? Why not give her a noble and heroic end commanding the Prometheus to the last?

[close]

Because they needed that trailer shot. ::)

I only wish the movie was as thrilling as the trailers!  Ironically, the Daily Mash ran this article last week, which is rather prescient.
http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/news/arts-entertainment/bond-film-released-as-preview-to-trailer-2012052228095 (http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/news/arts-entertainment/bond-film-released-as-preview-to-trailer-2012052228095)

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:30:39 AM

Quote from: Vickers on Jun 01, 2012, 05:21:59 AM
2 questions for those of you who have seen it:

Spoiler

How far into the film is Vickers's death? :'(

[close]

Spoiler

Very close to the end - she's on screen a lot, but I'm not convinced her character is necessary. Charlize does a good job with what she's given though.

[close]

Spoiler

Is her death a result of being heroic and perhaps saving Shaw who had fallen?  Or does she just not manage to outrun the rolling derelict?

[close]

I'm not expecting very accurate answers and it would help if more than one person can answer me because then I have a better idea.

Spoiler

I'm so disappointed with the way such a badass character dies. >:( So I want to prepare myself for further disappointment if she's not in the film much.

[close]

Spoiler

Very close to the end - she's on screen a lot, but I'm not convinced her character is necessary. Charlize does a good job with what she's given though.

[close]

Spoiler

Nope, it's a gratuitous trip and squish.  She manages to escape the Prometheus in an escape pod, crash lands on the surface, only to be snuffed out moments later. What was the point? Why not give her a noble and heroic end commanding the Prometheus to the last?

[close]

Sorry

Spoiler

I agree.  They should have given her character a heroic end.  To have her use the escape pod only to die very shortly after, by being crushed, feels cheap.  Like something I would see in a sequel to Final Destination.  I'm happy to hear that she's in the film until very close to the end but gosh, what a way for a cool character to go.

[close]

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv155%2FCharlizeTheronFan%2FCharlize_Distraught.jpg&hash=07cd417332b290637a00e6f998a49c2fad5cf8f8)

[close]

^
I know, I feel that about the whole movie.   :(

Vickers is just another in a long line of

Spoiler

cool characters in Alien films to die suddenly and without much heroic bullshit going on. Shit, most of the marines in Aliens kick the bucket real fast in that first trip to the hive.

[close]

Shit happens. Just deal with it.

Within the context of how Vickers is portrayed in the film

Spoiler

a heroic end might not be the best way to go. If anything, I'd say it had been more fitting for her to bite the bullet in a showdown with Weyland himself or David... I have some ideas how this could have played out in context with the characters, but I'll sit on it for now...

[close]

PS Vickers - your new set is just LOL  ;D

Quote from: Eva on Jun 01, 2012, 07:35:33 AM
Within the context of how Vickers is portrayed in the film

Spoiler

a heroic end might not be the best way to go. If anything, I'd say it had been more fitting for her to bite the bullet in a showdown with Weyland himself or David... I have some ideas how this could have played out in context with the characters, but I'll sit on it for now...

[close]

PS Vickers - your new set is just LOL  ;D

Interesting...

Spoiler

I'm really curious to see how everything plays out in the movie.  I've read things regarding the ending - I know a few major plot details but I still haven't read everything.  So hopefully there's surprises yet. :P  I'm glad to see you enjoyed the film despite its flaws.  And I can't wait to see that opening scene either.

[close]

P.S. Thanks. ;D

I'll write a longer review after work today. I saw it at midnight last night and I'd give it 4/5. Catch you later.

Good things about the movie:

-Visually and aurally (the sound not the musical score) it was a stunning experience....truly breathtaking.....and the 3D, to my happy surprise, actually enhanced it....I didnt find it 'too dark' or 'a distraction' at all, as some other reviewers complained of (I didnt see it at an IMAX theatre either)

-On a big screen and in 3D, the exterior shots of the Prometheus ship itself were phenomenal, especially the shots during space travel

-Engineer and human tech were both beautiful and fascinating, as was the set design

-David and Shaw - 2 interesting characters that you cared about and were very well played

-Logan Marshall Green was nowhere near as bad nor as cringeworthy as the trailers and clips had me believe - the editing in those short clips makes his performance come across as far worse than it actually is

-'Hammerpedes'

-The 1st half of the movie was far superior to the second IMO

Bad things about the movie:

-Superfluous and seemingly pointless roles of much of the cast, including major characters with star billing

-Truly gigantic plot holes

-Nonsensical and/or completely unbelievable actions, behaviour and reactions of many of the characters, given the extreme 'once in a lifetime' type situations they find themselves in......'scientists' being completely unscientific and acting like disinterested juveniles was a major standout for me

-The Engineers while being a highly evolved and technologically incredibly advanced race of beings, able to traverse light years at will,  manipulate DNA and seed life throughout the Universe, are yet portrayed as mindless, thuggish, homicidal morons - the bog standard, done to death Hollywood  'Aliens are gonna kill us all' cliche is alive and well in Prometheus

-'Mohawk mutant' was laughable and fulfilled all my negative 'redneck space mutant' pre-release expectations

-All creatures with the exception of the hammerpedes looked, how can I put this ?.............shit !

This movie absolutely needed a huge injection of Giger when it came to the creature designs

The octopus looked every bit as bad, cliched and comical as I thought it would, and another supposedly big creature reveal looked like something out of a cheesy comic horror movie  -half the audience actually laughed during this scene

-A 'birth' scene that smacked of a totally cynical, and in my mind pointless, attempt to try and 'trump' or 'outgross' the Kane chestburster scene in 'Alien'

-Extremely average and completely forgettable musical score

-Is in no way a 'standalone' movie as claimed when the ending is so blatantly a setup for a sequel


Overall I'd give the movie a 6/10 and I have no desire at all to see it again

If I was purely rating the 1st half of the movie up to the 'birth' scene then itd be a 9/10
The 2nd half was pretty much all downhill from there on as far as I'm concerned

A HEAVY hands on involvement by Giger, a decent scriptwriter...i.e. NOT Lindelof, and a more imaginative and accomplished composer than Streitenfeld could have lead to something far more interesting than this disappointing final result

So yeah, saw it at the mindnight screening in Leicester Square last night...

(some big spoilers herein, I guess *INCLUDING INCREDIBLY SPOILERY MS PAINT DIAGRAM!*)

Spoiler

It's the fourth best Alien film, after Alien 3 but over Resurrection.

I'm going to get the negatives over with first, 'cause I want some absolution from them!

It's a B-Movie in the way the originals never were. That's not to say that they didn't have B-movie origins, however enough was left unsaid and mysterious for them to transcend those origins. Prometheus cannot achieve this, as Ridley has adopted an entirely different approach to his direction. Where Alien played out like a documentary, everyone in Prometheus waits for their turn to speak, and often then trot out very rote sci-fi cliches. Kate Dickie in particular gives an outstandingly bad performance during the landing sequence which derails all the grandeur therein. Sean Harris too overdoes the old Cock-er-nee to ludicrous effect. He even makes Clive Mantle's "lawd luv a duck!" accent in Alien 3 sound passable! (However, as an Englishman I can't hear the problem with Idris Elba's accent that many talked about, so maybe that stuff is subjective) It's a real shame, because a bit of naturalism could have really upped the quality.

The score just drove me barmy. Non-stop bloody noise ALL THE WAY THROUGH. Again, all of the quiet tension of the originals is jettisoned for BAM! BAM! BAM! It's really disconcerting, and makes the film incredibly hard to reconcile with the others. One of the better moments comes when the flippin' score abruptly stops in the juggernaut cockpit. More of that and it'd be a lot better.

The plot itself has so many dead ends and holes you're left feeling that it must have been butchered in the edit. The whole thing feels ridiculously rushed from beginning to end, even at two hours. I wouldn't be surprised at all if there was a three hour version coming down the pike on blu-ray. We never see the snakes again after their attack on Milburn. A newborn alien creature is just left in a room and forgotten about until the plot requires it comes back. Fifield is a killer super zombie... because he is. Things just seem to happen, for no good reason. I'm loathe to blame the writers at this point, as I can't shake the feeling that some heavy editing has gone on. I don't think I've ever seen a Lindelof thing before, so I certainly have none of the hate for him that seem de rigeur. It felt chopped up, not badly plotted, although I could be totally wrong! In which case, hang your heads in shame spaihts and lindelof!

It doesn't feel like a Ridley Scott film. It doesn't even feel like a Tony Scott film. All of that beautiful painterly framing is gone. It feels like someone doing the best impression of various Kubrick moments. It's really weird. Come back smoke machine, all is forgiven!

And the proto-xeno. Oh dear god, the proto-xeno. You know the adage that a picture speaks a thousand words? Well then:
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv191%2Ficecoldinalex%2Fprotoxeno.jpg&hash=7421c0411da0379055228dd7c36b3db2ada0d91d)

Yep, that's him. A fleshy cross between the things from The Descent and a traffic cone. Whoo.

Despite my long belief that the film was better off ploughing it's own furrow, it really, REALLY misses the xenomorph and Giger. Ridley has thrown the baby out with the bathwater, really - in losing the best part of the franchise, he's lost the true otherworldliness. The controls on the Juggernaut are laughably badly designed. The whole thing is screaming for Giger to come along and make it beautiful. Odd. Sadly, I can't help but feel that if any sequels are forthcoming  they need the xenomorph back, but I know many will disagree. There's just nothing frightening here.

And there is no final eight minute "Oh yeah!" thing, that's just cobblers. There is what is essentailly a trailer for a sequel and the squishy grey bit of fan service above that would please no fan. Skills, Sir Rid, skills.

However, it has plenty of interesting moments. Despite her inglorious demise, Charlize Theron plays a blinder as Vickers - the vulnerability comes through well, and she's much more likeable really than Shaw, if only because she acts like a sensible human being in the main. If her motivation is "these people are idiots and my dad is an egomaniacal arse" then she does all you could with that. she has some lovely moments with Idris Elba, who is also grand. Harking back to Skerritt, but a different class of laid back. He feels like a character from an Alien movie. It's good to have him around. the rest of the cast are a bit interchangable, although it does seem is though LMG is playing a vainglorious idiot, rather than can't act, for the doubters. Some more time with all of them would have been welcomed. Seriously, it is easier to know the characters in Alien 3 than in this.

As everyone is saying, though, Michael Fassbender is wonderful. He is worth the entry price alone, and is a magnificent addition to the series. As a midpoint between Ash and Bishop the film comes to life whenever he is around. And the unanswered question of what he really says to the jockey is one of the film's more interesting questions. It is genuinely worth going to see the film just for David. If they'd done away with all the monsters and just had David vs. the humans. vs. the Jockey in some philosophical tug of war, it'd be a better film.

There are some lovely and surprising callbacks to Aliens as well as Alien - the LV designation for planets is in, as is the 'building better worlds' slogan. It feels good to be back in that world. To lesser effect there is even a variant on the classic, "Drake! We are leaving!". Hammy, but a nice acknowledgment of a world beyond just Scott's original.

Now, this all sounds like a real drubbing, but I did enjoy it. It's a good film, and it's an entertaining watch. It just can't live up to the classics it is following. I don't think anyone ever really thought it would, really. I'm really hoping for an extended cut, and I'm intrigued as to where the series could go from here. I'll go see it again next week at a more civilised hour and when I've let the dust settle and see how I feel then. But yeah, do go and see it, it is worth it, just don't expect a masterpiece. This is a flawed film, but much better than anything we've seen from the series since 1992.

As an afterword, my partner Donna really enjoyed it, and although she knows the first two Alien movies, is in no way fanatical about them. I think it probably does work better if you aren't so close to the source material. to fans I'm afraid it's following up the ceiling of the Cistine Chapel with an incredibly impressive photoshop of the Cistine Chapel. Both are objectively enjoyable, but only one is truly wonderful, y'know?

[close]

Short version: Very flawed, it feels mostly through editing choice and some dreadful scoring. However, not a bad film in and of itself. I enjoyed it and Fassbender is wonderful. The fourth best Alien movie after Alien 3.

Question

Spoiler

Do we see young Shaw in flashbacks or holographic memory screens?  Also, where do we see Patrick Wilson?

[close]

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 10:09:42 AM

Spoiler

Do we see young Shaw in flashbacks or holographic memory screens?  Also, where do we see Patrick Wilson?

[close]

Spoiler

David is watching her dream of her past on a hologram while she hypersleeps. You see Patrick Wilson as her father in the same scene, talking about how religions differ and are about individual choice.

[close]

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on Jun 01, 2012, 12:48:45 AM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 10:25:29 PM

Quote from: PROM3TH3US on May 31, 2012, 09:46:39 PM

Quote from: NGR01 on May 31, 2012, 09:32:05 PM
Ok so you've seen the movie and you have forgotten about this.
The movie is so awesome as you say in your review that it blew your mind AND memory.
That is quite a concern forsomeone as young as you mate :)

Lets find another thing then.
What is DAVID doing when he's watching a movie in the opening scenes where he's alone in the Prometheus?
Again simple question and it's something that you can't forget.

Jesus. Both of you give it a rest already.  I'm pretty sure he have not seen the film yet and not even in France without having to ask him any questions.  How do I know?  His time line/zone posting are totally off in the video and on here.  The room that he's filming is the same room he's in an older video.  I didn't bother to push the case because at least he's not a troll that tries to paint and go around and say "Promeus is shit" all over Youtube.

Excuses me for avoiding this kind of beahvior spread.
Funny how it ok to you since he's saying the movie is awesome.
If he said otherwise you would be all over him saying that he know shit...

---

Quote from: EEV-2501 on May 31, 2012, 09:42:59 PM
^ Peter O' Toole style. ;) So funny.

Yes lol.
Did you notice that the shot from comiccon where he's crying comes from that scene?
More proof that the movie has been largely recut.

I'm sorry but you're are becoming more annoying than he is.  Yeah we all know you don't like the film.  Don't go preaching it to everyone and in every thread and trying to convince everyone else.  It's how you're doing it.  I don't see the harm in him in doing anything really wrong.  All he did was taking all the positive feed back from the incoming reviews and just relaying or spinning it to his own version which isn't totally out of context or false about the movie .  Even though he lied about seeing it doesn't make him some very bad guy.

I just love how you sum up all i've said about the movie by "you don't like the movie".
Don't put word into my mouth please.
Read me right or don't bother.
I have said nagative things about the movie, mostly about the climax.
If that means to you that you can sum it up to "he hated the mivie" then you should seek help...

Quote from: Vickers on Jun 01, 2012, 05:21:59 AM

Spoiler

Is her death a result of being heroic and perhaps saving Shaw who had fallen?  Or does she just not manage to outrun the rolling derelict?

[close]

Spoiler

She simply trips, falls and gets crushed. Very disappointing if you ask me, one of the things I really didn't like about the movie.

[close]

I mean, if they really wanted a death scene...

Spoiler

...why not have her be killed by the Engineer or the Starbeast a few minutes later? :-\

[close]

^Starbeast ? You mean the squid monster ? Nice one Laufey. :laugh:

Well my user review can be found here:

http://www.slashingthrough.com/reviews.php?id=136 (http://www.slashingthrough.com/reviews.php?id=136)

I have to say I am impressed by the visuals but I found that the rest of the movie was lacking a lot of story and the ending was really rushed.

3.5/5

Arrgghh so many new questions and old ones that haven't been anwsered :(

Quote from: Laufey on Jun 01, 2012, 11:06:28 AM

Spoiler

...why not have her be killed by the Engineer or the Starbeast a few minutes later? :-\

[close]

Spoiler

Exactly my thought, because it feels like the Blue guy died too early: he throws Show against the wall/door and next moment gets killed by the freed squidy-baby. Vikers' death in-between would vary the episode.

[close]

Other people who've seen it:

Spoiler

do you reckon the little worm things were already in the temple, or is the implication that they're microbes from the crew's boots in accelerated growth? it seemed a little unclear to me.

[close]

Quote from: robbritton on Jun 01, 2012, 11:50:56 AMOther people who've seen it:

Spoiler

do you reckon the little worm things were already in the temple, or is the implication that they're microbes from the crew's boots in accelerated growth? it seemed a little unclear to me.

[close]

Spoiler

It was clearly shown that some maggots fell off the boots as they walked around inside the temple.

[close]

Well, the consensus is that the film is solid, and good. Interesting.

I tought the consensus was it was good but failed in characterization and its climax was rushed ;)

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 11:56:18 AM
Well, the consensus is that the film is solid, and good. Interesting.

It's a good sci fi film, arguably it will become one of the best in its genre, you just don't have to juxtapose it with the original. In that relation Alien fans are somewhat cursed, in a sense, to perceive the film from already set standpoint.

I've only read the 'its climax felt rushed' from maybe 3 people.

So again the majority must be right ;)
I know what consensus means just teasing you a bit.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 12:12:30 PM
I've only read the 'its climax felt rushed' from maybe 3 people.

All good third part of the film gets rushed, in my opinion. So is the climax, there personally I have no complaints with speeded up pacing. (But the content of some scenes here is really mind-boggling).

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 05:09:37 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:01:54 AM

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 04:56:56 AM
Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

In my local (Chatham) there was some restrained clapping and whooping when the BBFC card came up, and stony silence at the end. No idea what anyone else thought (I was there alone, and most others were in big groups, mostly late teens and about three people my age - 40 - or older), but there was no clapping.

Might be a area thing. i am from middlesbrough and had go to newcastle to watch it on the IMAX and its the first time i heard clapping at a end of a film. not everyone was clapping but a good few were. However people were going mad CLAPPING over the Spiderman trailer it looked pretty cool in 3D.

Im from Middelsbrough to and saw the film in REAL 3D, the  effect was ok, not really into 3D mostly but it was a very good film, not great but I did enjoy the first half a lot but it was so badly cut

Quote from: Laufey on Jun 01, 2012, 11:55:37 AM

Quote from: robbritton on Jun 01, 2012, 11:50:56 AMOther people who've seen it:

Spoiler

do you reckon the little worm things were already in the temple, or is the implication that they're microbes from the crew's boots in accelerated growth? it seemed a little unclear to me.

[close]

Spoiler

It was clearly shown that some maggots fell off the boots as they walked around inside the temple.

[close]

Cheers! I couldn't really tell if they

Spoiler

fell off the boots or were stepped on and revealed in the goo! it was about quarter to one in the morning, in my defence!  :)

[close]

Quote from: robbritton on Jun 01, 2012, 12:36:04 PM

Quote from: Laufey on Jun 01, 2012, 11:55:37 AM

Quote from: robbritton on Jun 01, 2012, 11:50:56 AMOther people who've seen it:

Spoiler

do you reckon the little worm things were already in the temple, or is the implication that they're microbes from the crew's boots in accelerated growth? it seemed a little unclear to me.

[close]

Spoiler

It was clearly shown that some maggots fell off the boots as they walked around inside the temple.

[close]

Cheers! I couldn't really tell if they

Spoiler

fell off the boots or were stepped on and revealed in the goo! it was about quarter to one in the morning, in my defence!  :)

[close]

Spoiler

Yes I also think the Hammerpedes were randomly created by worms that fell off some explorers' boots.  Once they entered the ooze they mutated, became bigger and more aggressive.  The same thing happened to Fifield when he falls into the ooze trying to save Milburn, who dies soon after hes attacked, I'm thinking his brain is eaten as you can see his head has shrunk when the others find him

[close]

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 12:28:06 PM

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 05:09:37 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 05:01:54 AM

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 04:56:56 AM
Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

In my local (Chatham) there was some restrained clapping and whooping when the BBFC card came up, and stony silence at the end. No idea what anyone else thought (I was there alone, and most others were in big groups, mostly late teens and about three people my age - 40 - or older), but there was no clapping.

Might be a area thing. i am from middlesbrough and had go to newcastle to watch it on the IMAX and its the first time i heard clapping at a end of a film. not everyone was clapping but a good few were. However people were going mad CLAPPING over the Spiderman trailer it looked pretty cool in 3D.

Im from Middelsbrough to and saw the film in REAL 3D, the  effect was ok, not really into 3D mostly but it was a very good film, not great but I did enjoy the first half a lot but it was so badly cut

nice to see another person from my neck off the woods. :) im from Stockton, but i just say Boro to people online cos more people know Boro more then they know of stockton lol. :) Prometheus looked and sounded pretty dam good on IMAX. I am glad i drove to newcastle to watch it. I may give it another watch in afew weeks time at hollywood bowl at teesside park in real 3d. But last night was my first time watching a film in 3D IMAX and it was worth every penny. Prometheus itself is a little better then average film, but like most people have said it felt rushed and lazy in some spots.

I am going to do a better review later on today cos i was tired when i got back and posted my last post. So i should have a better idea on what to say now ive had some sleep and a good think.

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 12:43:09 PM

Spoiler

Yes I also think the Hammerpedes were randomly created by worms that fell off some explorers' boots.  Once they entered the ooze they mutated, became bigger and more aggressive.  The same thing happened to Fifield when he falls into the ooze trying to save Milburn, who dies soon after hes attacked, I'm thinking his brain is eaten as you can see his head has shrunk when the others find him

[close]

Erm...

Where did the worms come from?!

I thought ALL life had to first be created by these engineers and couldnt just spontaneously be living on this desolate planet all by itself? I mean, according to this shitty story the whole universe is sterile right? We need some bald bloke to come to Earth, drink some magic potion and then toss himself into the waterfall before anything biological can exist. Actually, tossing himself off into the waterfall might have achieved the same effect...

Christ, this writing is shit.

Quote from: 180924609 on Jun 01, 2012, 01:03:15 PM

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 12:43:09 PM

Spoiler

Yes I also think the Hammerpedes were randomly created by worms that fell off some explorers' boots.  Once they entered the ooze they mutated, became bigger and more aggressive.  The same thing happened to Fifield when he falls into the ooze trying to save Milburn, who dies soon after hes attacked, I'm thinking his brain is eaten as you can see his head has shrunk when the others find him

[close]

Erm...

Where did the worms come from?!

I thought ALL life had to first be created by these engineers and couldnt just spontaneously be living on this desolate planet all by itself? I mean, according to this shitty story the whole universe is sterile right? We need some bald bloke to come to Earth, drink some magic potion and then toss himself into the fountain before anything biological can exist. Actually tossing himself off into the fountain might have achieved the same effect...

Christ, this writing is shit.

Yeah I must admit I thought the hammerpede's were the engineers creation, but the film 'suggests' these worms are indigenous, you see them a few times in other places before the crew reach the Orrery, eventually some enter the black goo when things start to go wrong, so I assume I was wrong and they are a mutation.... I guess

Okay, I've slept on it now (which is going to bugger up my sleep pattern for the next week, and it wasn't even worth it) but my overall feeling of disappointment is unchanged.

Reading some of the comments made by other UK midnighters has reinforced both my negative and positive views of the movie. I'm as baffled as anyone else by the worms. Do we really think this hyper-expensive star ship, equipped with the latest (and sexiest) space suits available, is infested with.... worms??? I prefer to think (if only so that I believe that writers are not first class morons) that bacteria evolved vary rapidly, first to little worms and then to hammerpedes.
This also runs counter to present-day planetary protection protocols - not even the 2090s but NOW. Real modern planetary protection requires space-craft landing on other bodies to be sterilized to certain standards, a specific number of bugs per square cm (so actually not 100 % sterile but near a dammit). Why does that change here? Is it okay for humans to carry all our microbes to another planet and infect it, and then (sooo dumb) to take our helmets off in this alien environment and potentially infect ourselves. Holloway has no way of knowing there are know airborne viruses. In part because the team biologist is a superfluous halfwit.

I saw an interview with Spaihts in which he said he talked to scientists to help him with his ideas. Either Damon trashed all that, or he lied, or the scientists were idiots.  >:(

Obvioulsy there will be spoilers...

Spoiler

I've seen Prometheus twice now.  2D and 3D.  And one thing is for certain, its certainly sealed the fate of 3D with me.  Didn't really notice it beyond a few scenes here and there.  Picture was far too dark.  Far more enjoyable in 2D in my opinion.

As for the film itself.  Well,  would I be hounded and shot if I said that it came off as a slightly better written, acted and directed version of AVP?  There were beats that almost felt identical to me.  Eg Fifield and Milburn's relationship felt like Verheiden and Millers in the unrated cut of AVP.  Except with the overt sappy "We'll get through this" nonsense from Anderson's script.

Even the overall concept is near identical.  We are going to find the origins of civilization.  Except it won't matter a damn forty minutes in, when we are being infected, impregnated, eviscerated.  Which is the problem.  The lofty and profound ideas being (supposedly) addressed are basically being tacked onto the bones of an old Alien Prequel script and it shows.

The central performances were fine enough.  Noomi Rapace delivers a decent form of Ripley-lite.  Michael Fassbender was deviously innocent ;)  Guy Pearce was completely and utter wasted.  His performance was fine, but why bury him under all those prosthetics?  A man chasing immortality, I was certain a year ago that we would see an Old Man find his fountain of youth in this movie.  All he finds is a milky droid's head in his eye...

Idris Elba was cool and collected as Janek.  Dude even managed to get his freak on with Theron's Ice Queen Vickers.  Mac Daddy or what?  8)  Now, what exactly is the score with Vickers.  Back at Comicon, Ridley hinted that there may be two robots.  Was Vickers the second robot?  Did she survive the Juggernaut squashing to return for the inevitable sequel?  The secondary and tertiary characters don't really get much to do.  Rafe Spall adopts an American accent as a characterless botanist.  Sean Harris seems like a no-BS, "ain't go time for this shit" type of guy, until he discovers the fate of The Engineers and gets all Hudson and Lambert on everybody.  Katie Dickie, a Scottish actress seems to be trying so hard to come across as Scottish that her accent sounded forced.  Ravel (Benedict Wong) and Chance (Emun Elliot) are the only other characters with a bit of dialogue, which mainly concerns a bet they've put on as to why they are on the planet in the first place.  Did they really have to use the generic future sci-fi currency of "Credits"?  Shares would have been a cooler little nod to the first Alien film.  Everybody else is fodder.

Which kind of brings us to pace and editing.  Ridley has quickened his pace, and the movie tends to rush a bit in some scenes.  This is more a trend of modern movie making than anything else.  The movie does show some signs of heavy editing.  Especially in the "Fifield Attack" scene.  Originally, this scene was supposed to take place as Weyland and co head back to the temple to meet the Last Engineer, with Shaw jumping in the Rover and running Fifield over.  The scene now takes place concurrently with Shaw's "C-Sec" scene, and as a result suffers.  It feels superfluous and tacked on.  Blu-ray cut, anybody (which btw should be 10/11/12, if anybody noticed the "Footage Property of Weyland Corp tag at the end credits ;))

The music was not noticeable, it kind of disspeared into the scenes, basically telling the audience to feel scared or feel sad.  The sound mix was excellent though, particualrly in the Prometheus landing scene.  The cinema shook!

Then there is the ending and The Alien Connection.  All through the film, I felt like some sort of Xenomorph Detective, trying to piece the puzzle together.  Unfortunately, due to Lindelof's rewrite, the Alien connection seems to have been arbitrarily removed and replaced with something else which "kinda hints" at Alien.  What is the carving on the Ampule Chamber wall.  A Queen?  I'm sure I spotted a facehuuger on the lower right of the carving too.  What was the Snakehugger?  It has acid for blood and tries to get inside you body.  And that's about it.  The black ooze contained within the ampules seems to be the source of of this parasite, as evidenced by a little retina wriggling on Holloway's eyeball which ultimately leads us to Squidhugger, and the single most dissapointing design in the movie.  Seriously, some calamari is the best they could come up with?  And if you liked that, you're gonna love this...

Tiny, Impy, Goblin, Venom Horse Mouthed, Pointy Headed, ADI Xenomorph wannabe runt.  Which we see in a rehash of AVP's denoument.  Seriously, why bother?  I would have been content, dissapointed but content to watch the Juggernaut fly off, Shaw and David bound for Engineer Paradise.  But to have this awful, weak fan boy service scene tacked on, just made me groan.  Again, I blame Lindelof's rewrite.  Presumably, in Spaiht's draft, they landed on LV-426, cut to the end, Engineer is impregnated tries to climb back into his pilot seat but ends up chest bursting, whatever.  Cue Ripley.  Lindelof appears to have lazily redressed these elements and said "Aha, but wait for the sequel!"  If Lindelof is attached, I won't be waiting for anything.

Apologies for the length of this.  I've waited years for this and needed my cathartic release.  I needed to get back on the horse.  Where, for me, its rider shall be forever known as a Jockey and not an Engineer... 

[close]

My review of seeing the UK midnight 3D show:

Spoiler

Loved the Alien films, loved that this was not another, was so looking forward to it but left feeling annoyed at an average sci-fi film. Having been almost at shooting the Alien film and then scrapping it for a new story over the past years I had very high expectations of a story that would shine, that this would be a masterpiece, sadly I didn't think it was anywhere near that.

Leaving Alien out for a minute the parts that were good:
- David's part and the way his character was developed, very nice indeed. Very dark and I had hoped for something like that, a more psychological horror. That said his method of contact with Weyland, wth? Other than that his character is the best part of this film.

- Visuals, nice to look at which at times the 3D did work a treat.

- Tension, a few parts were just as tense as some of the good horror films. The drive back to the ship, the nod to Alien with the impregnation and removal scene, again nicely done (again).

- The story, promised so much at the start but as soon as they entered the 'tomb' it just fell on its face and didn't really know what to do. A somewhat save by David's character but then it careers off into being another AvP film I think in the hope to bring some sort of conclusion to a plot that at this point has so many holes in it that it becomes hard to care about any of it.

- Timeline, due to when this has been made there is a lot more technology floating around, there would be no getting around this but adding items that would have clearly helped other victims in other films fight the Aliens, well that could have been handled a lot better I think. Leaving them out actually may have helped Prometheus.

-------------------
In comparison to the Alien franchise, it's exactly what the rest of the films have been since Alien 3, which for me was the last good part of the story. A pretty average film that has best intentions but cannot deliver the claustrophobic horror of sealing six people in a room with a welding torch away from certain death outside the door (or was it? ). It's a franchise that was defined at a time when less was more, sci-fi and horror went hand in hand, the stories were simple, more focused. This film had none of that, it found it hard to raise much tension let alone fear.

The plot holes, where to begin, so there's talk of a sequel, I can't really say I care for watching it to be honest even if it was sat next to me just now.
The Engineer suicide at the start, to introduce life to Earth(?), that was destroying DNA, it was snapping the strands, I mean it was degrading DNA, not making life breed or mutate.
Why go to all that bother to make life on Earth but then want to kill it again? So say that Engineer was a 'rebel' something the rest of the race didn't want life on Earth, I guess then they need a weapon to destroy, fine. None of that is eluded to in the film. In fact we have to watch the film for about 90 minutes to find out in a few lines from Prometheus captain that LV-223 is a bio installation where the Engineers made weapons, that's a pathetic method of story telling. Cameron didn't force feed us like that in Aliens with the Queen chamber, are audiences that dumb these days that the only method to convey part of a story is to have someone blurt it out half way through the film? Know your audience Mr Blade Runner....


The planet, LV-223 (I think?) is not LV-426, so it's a different planet where Prometheus lands. So let's treat this as a different planet for now, the derelict we see crash can't be the same derelict in the Alien film. Crashing Prometheus into the side of it and making the 'entry hole' may come in handy for Kane and crew later on, but this is a different planet.
The distress signal, also handy but this is a different planet.
The Engineer has left his seat to go after female doctor, again handy it is a different planet after all, so how can any chest burst happen?
There's what closely resembles an Alien running around, I guess that could be a queen, different planet though, remember?

By the end of the film we have a fifth generation evolution into the Alien we all know:
Male doctor > female doctor > squid? > engineer > Alien.
So any Alien, a Giger Alien would need to evolve in a similar set of jumps, no?
Well for one there won't be that same cycle even if there are other living Engineers on LV-224.

So, female doctor (and that reflects how much I'm not interested, I can't even bring myself to Google her character name) is off on one with David, so she might end up on LV-426, but there are no other humans alive to have the five stage jump like we just saw. So the impregnation/human mutation won't happen again.

Leaving how we got where we did out of it for a minute and going back to just Prometheus. The (all too handy storytelling, but didn't story tell) holograms that were running around, sure they'd have been handy as hell for Kane and Lambert (who by the way would have had superior tech to anything on Prometheus, see above), they were running into the tomb, why was the Engineer running into a room full of stuff that would kill him?
What about the head high pile of Engineer bodies? What killed them? That elusive 'ping' to the west that we never see of again? Why waste all that time to show these two plums running around getting 'information' that is never used, impregnated with a worm mutation, again which is never used after showing it pop out of his mouth.
Why is the tattooed rock geologist guy smashing up the crew? I mean going on what happened on Earth with the suicide and the reformed exploding pilot head this bio weapon destroys by degrading DNA, not by turning things into zombies. Why did we have a ten minute fight on Prometheus deck for what seems like no reason?

In the tomb there is a clear carving of an Alien on the back wall, if that mutation took five jumps away from what is in the pods how the hell was that predicted?
Why even bother to make the worm mutation if it's only purpose is to kill a few folks but not kill as many as geologist rock hippie?
-------------------

So yes, I'm off on one (unless you've been in hypersleep for the past 50 years, you can tell I'm a bit of a nut over Alien films) judging by what I've typed so far my opinion/interpretations yup they are. Gave more questions than answers, yup, it did and I'd have been totally content with that but the massive problem I have is that none of this makes any sense so the film ends up being so disconnected through bad storytelling and irrelevant sequences that the last ten minutes of here is the evolution Alien lovers that you've got to even question why the hell that was put in place also.

It's an okay sci-fi film with action in it for action sake, it crutches on Alien franchise because really that's the only true thing left for it to do. Scott might not have wanted to make another Alien film, he succeeded, I'm rather glad it is so detached.
Give me Alien to watch any day of the week over this, the next time I do watch it I'll be doing my very best to forget about Prometheus.


This is annoyed person, last remaining survivor of average Hollywood films signing off.

[close]

Quote from: pinion on Jun 01, 2012, 01:50:26 PM

Spoiler

That elusive 'ping' to the west that we never see of again?

[close]

The ping does come up again, but it's not too obvious.

Spoiler

It's coming from the disco-ball probe that has travelled down the long tunnel to the buried juggernaut and is stuck by the door - it's picking up the widely space intermittant life form of the sleeping engineer (I think). It's thought be faulty and David goes off alone to check it out and then finds the cockpit and the engineer.

[close]

Quote from: pinion on Jun 01, 2012, 01:50:26 PM
This is annoyed person, last remaining survivor of average Hollywood films signing off.

Agreed, big time. I don't get it with the whizz-bang mindset of many films these days, moronic plot lines and lots of running and shouting and explosions. I'm only glad there are some film makers (Tarantino for example) who aren't afraid of crafting a 20 minutes scene between two people talking which has more tension and emotion than all of Prometheus added together.

Quote
Agreed, big time. I don't get it with the whizz-bang mindset of many films these days, moronic plot lines and lots of running and shouting and explosions. I'm only glad there are some film makers (Tarantino for example) who aren't afraid of crafting a 20 minutes scene between two people talking which has more tension and emotion than all of Prometheus added together.

Thanks a lot for the ping item ucdom. I get it now :).

You know what you will get when you say there is no answer?
It's the point, they did it on purpose.
That is the charm/power of the movie.
Only dumb audience need answers.
You're just not intelligent enough.
LOL

Remember what Lindelof said about LOST?
Whats important is the journey not the answer at the end.
Pure lazy writing BS.
ALIEN has mysteries, MATRIx has mysteries.
But they have a self suficiant story, they were not made only to sell a sequel.

You'll see.

Quote from: NGR01 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:23:25 PM
You know what you will get when you say there is no answer?
It's the point, they did it on purpose.
That is the charm/power of the movie.
Only dumb audience need answers.
You're just not intelligent enough.
LOL

Remember what Lindelof said about LOST?
Whats important is the journey not the answer at the end.
Pure lazy writing BS.
ALIEN has mysteries, MATRIx has mysteries.
But they have a self suficiant story, they were not made only to sell a sequel.

You'll see.

For me - I don't know about anyone else - it's not a question of 'no answers'. 2001 had no answers and was brilliant. My problem with Prometheus is utterly baffling and illogical character motivations, interactions, and some terrible dialogue. I don't think it's mysterious, I think it's stupid.

Quote from: 180924609 on Jun 01, 2012, 01:03:15 PM

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 01, 2012, 12:43:09 PM

Spoiler

Yes I also think the Hammerpedes were randomly created by worms that fell off some explorers' boots.  Once they entered the ooze they mutated, became bigger and more aggressive.  The same thing happened to Fifield when he falls into the ooze trying to save Milburn, who dies soon after hes attacked, I'm thinking his brain is eaten as you can see his head has shrunk when the others find him

[close]

Erm...

Where did the worms come from?!

I thought ALL life had to first be created by these engineers and couldnt just spontaneously be living on this desolate planet all by itself? I mean, according to this shitty story the whole universe is sterile right? We need some bald bloke to come to Earth, drink some magic potion and then toss himself into the waterfall before anything biological can exist. Actually, tossing himself off into the waterfall might have achieved the same effect...

Christ, this writing is shit.

Why do you assume that ALL life in the entire universe is created by the engineers? I'm not sure the movie states anything other than the engineers are responsible for life on Earth. They may be responsible for all life everywhere... but then again, they may not. The worms were mutated into the hammerpedes... that's clear. How the worms got there is largely irrelevant... they may be indigenous, they may be not. The point is they were harmless until humans poked their noses in, changed the climate/atmosphere of the temple and caused the black goo to leak.

I saw it yesterday. And first i'd like to say that its not because you live in a country with a different spoken language than english that it means nobody is watching films in their original language. So, yes i saw it in english.

Ok so im 34, alien & sci-fi fan, motion designer and film maker, bla bla bla.

It seems i am one of the few that didnt hate the film nor loved it. It's just a disapointment. I didnt have unrealistic expectations before watching it, hell i work in the field so i know how it goes.

As a film in itself it was a well (slow) paced movie. In fact the whole film has a "similar" vibe to the first half of the original Alien, which is a great point because that was the part i liked the most. So that choice was good.
The VFX, the picture, the edit, most of the acting (2-3 characters are awful though), all that were very good.

Yeah you guessed it, that's about it. Now ill tell you what i thought went wrong.

First, the score. Maybe 1 or 2 cool musics but the rest is a pile of forgettable hollywood junk you hear in every "so called epic" movie. Such a shame, the soundtrack and sound design of the first Alien was great and gave a very specific mood. It just doesnt exist in Prometheus.
Then you have the problem with the story. This is the point that divide people and i know why. The reason is simple: the target audience.
The film is CLEARLY targeted at younger audience, not the generation who grew up with Alien films and all other sci-fi influences. So the young guys, who may only know the "classics" at best, didnt grew up with all those sci-fi stories. I did. And i must say that the story of prometheus and all the few ideas scattered in it are REHASH. Everything i saw in the film i already saw in older movies or even in Stargate tv series. Its NOT original. So the young guys don't know that, thats why they could apreciate the movie a lot more than the "old geeks".
Its a real bad move if you ask me. Why? Because putting more interesting ideas, working them and expanding them would have been the choice that would have pleased much more people at different ages, all that while beeing a much better film. Yeah i know Hollywood seems to think that young people are stupid and have 45 of IQ, but i think it was worth a shot. Especially for a movie of this magnitude. DAMN! Just go to forums and message boards and you could almost pick any random post about alien theories and stumble upon better ideas.

Other aspects i didnt like:
-The SJs! They are ugly and almost look stupid (the picture limits the damage, but shoot this guy in broad daylight without color correction and it doesnt even pass the casting of Stargate Atlantis). Oh and they move and act a bit dumb as well. Is that a superior life form? hmmm...
-The designs! I loved the vfx and visual effects but the designs weren't great. The chambers and tunnels look so-so, the creatures look like squids and the alien "ancestor" at the end just looks bad and a lot less detailed than any other alien. it doesnt look like much work or effort has been put into this. Where was Giger?
-The incoherences of the story. Wether that be for the film itself or for the continuity of the series.

And most of all: why always humans? WHY?!?! Are we sooooo special? oh yeah we HAD to be conceived by superior beeings, then we are so special that they HAVE to destroy us. This is so played out and uninspired. And on top of that we are talking about Alien and SJ mythology! All these mysteries and questions rised from the first films are here completely spoiled by uninspired ideas. I remember what i felt watching Alien, thinking about the darkest parts of the universe or ancient times, so much things that are way beyond us. It was like watching the stars, there are so much of them that you felt like nothing in the vast universe. In Prometheus it's the exact opposite. Everything is linked to us. Thats a shame. Such a shame that i cant even see this film as Alien canon.

And last thing: What is Hollywood's problem with robots? Whats with the racism against them? Even the "good" guys from the film are saying very mean things to the robot and treat him like a slave or an inferior beeing. Yeah i know it's not a human, but can we just respect other lifeforms without always thinking we are soooo much superior? I get it that stupid people will exist even in the future but not ALL OF THEM whould behave like jackasses.

Please don't hesitate to ask any question if it's still too "vague" for you. Ill be happy to help.

Quote from: NGR01 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:23:25 PM
You know what you will get when you say there is no answer?
It's the point, they did it on purpose.
That is the charm/power of the movie.
Only dumb audience need answers.
You're just not intelligent enough.
LOL

Remember what Lindelof said about LOST?
Whats important is the journey not the answer at the end.
Pure lazy writing BS.
ALIEN has mysteries, MATRIx has mysteries.
But they have a self suficiant story, they were not made only to sell a sequel.

You'll see.

For me it's got nothing to do with no answer, in fact if this film had brought relevant, planned, and downright logical questions to me I'd have loved the shit out of it. I don't need answers to feel comfortable with a question, that part is for me to answer, if that's how it was planned I'd most likely be stunned into silence. Instead nothing was planned, I know this through having seen Prometheus. There were locations and breadcrums that were left, my problem is this is all that was used to convey a new take on a new story, breadcrumbs of a theory that sold in the 70's, evolved in the 80s and 90s and was fruitpicked to convey some sort of back story but didn't actually deliver inside it's own self let alone deliver or add to the breadcrumb trail.

Take the matrix comment, nothing in this realm is even related to the matrix, because the matrix left you with open interpretation, but was based on the outward thinking mind, that has no place in the same realm as claustrophobic mind based horror because that's what a lot of people fail to see, the whole Alien franchise, even the involvement of Giger is about horror, not sci-fi, downright what is the worst thing that you can possibly imagine happening to you, your body. It's inward. The matrix was based on mind interpretation of a realm, outward. Alien is not, it's inward, your fears, your vision of you and your fear of something uncontrollable affecting that.

Cheers.

---

Quote from: NGR01 on Jun 01, 2012, 02:23:25 PM
You know what you will get when you say there is no answer?
It's the point, they did it on purpose.
That is the charm/power of the movie.
Only dumb audience need answers.
You're just not intelligent enough.
LOL

Remember what Lindelof said about LOST?
Whats important is the journey not the answer at the end.
Pure lazy writing BS.
ALIEN has mysteries, MATRIx has mysteries.
But they have a self suficiant story, they were not made only to sell a sequel.

You'll see.

In saying that mind, its so good to see you descent into your not really that smart as some sort of retort to someone who has a different opinion to you, /golf clap. Idiot.

Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus, not as an Alien-related film, but as a science fiction film in general?

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:53:16 PM
Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus as a general science fiction film?

3/5

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:53:16 PM
Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus, not as an Alien-related film, but as a science fiction film in general?

2/5

And it only gets that for the design, vfx and photography.

Right so i'll start with an overview of the plot and then give my review after -

please bear in ,mind i have dislexia as well so i apologise for any spelling or grammar problem

Spoiler

So the film starts with some beautiful landscape shots of what you guess is Earth of the past (it doesn't tell you of course, thats a running theme in the movie) and we then see a ufo over head and a figure walking towards a waterfall. The figure removes its cloak and its a naked humanoid space jockey (good make up effects but looks silly imo), the jockey opens a box and drinks this liquid that desolves his body into the waterfall and forms dna in the water.
Next scene is Shaw and her group in Scotland looking in a cave where they find some cave paintings like you have seen in the trailer.
We then move forward into space and onto the Prometheus itself. David the android is walking around and doing random tasks on the ship while everyone is in stasis (quite a cool scene, including him tapping in to Shaws dreams about her father). Moving forward again and everyone has been brought out of stasis and we are now at the explenation scene in the basketball court from the trailer, the scene plays out like the trailer and Holloway and Shaw explain about the Jockeys (engineers) and that they have been travelling to the planet in the star map (most of the crew don't know the mission). We also see a really cool hologram scene of Weyland (who is supposed to be dead) thanking the crew for taking this mission etc (they play the ALIEN theme in this sequence which is really cool)
Next up we have the Prometheus entering the atmosphere and landing on the surface. Vickers talks to Shaw and Holloway privately and does the 'no contact, no talking to these beings' speach. Holloway is desperate to go to the pyramid/jockey base and tells everyone to suit up. The party members get in the vehicles and drive to the pyramid, they enter and walk about a bit (very atmospheric) until David sees some symbols on the wall where he starts pushing them in some kind of order (he seems to know what he's doing) and suddenly the holograms of the jockeys running come up and the crew follow the jockeys until they get to the door to the 'big head' room. David opens the door and the party finds the jockey severed head, Holloway goes behind the head and sees the xeno mural, David sneaks one of the ampules into his back pack and they all head back out as Janeck (the captain) says a big storm is heading their way. The party rush out, get in their vehicles and head back to the ship (Fifield and Milburn are left behind as they got lost in the tunnels).
Back on the ship and Shaw, David and a few other investigate the Jockey head and find thats its just a helmet, they remove the helmet and see a humanoid face. Shaw then says she can re-animate the head and starts injecting it with some fluid but the head starts going crazy and blows up!, they find from this though that the jockeys share our dna which is a big revelation to them.
The film cuts back to Janeck talking to Fifield and Milburn who are still lost on the jockey ship, Janeck tells them thet they will have to wait out the storm until morning (they are not happy about this, Fifield tells Janeck to tell Shaw and Milburn to 'f**k off' for getting them into this lol). Janeck then says that he has picked up a lifeform signal not far from them, they both don't want to investigate and they walk off and end up in the 'Big Head' room. They are talking and see something moving in the black goo (the liquid mutated these meal worm things that were there somehow?), its the snake thing which grabs Milburn by the arm and continues to break his arm, Fifield cuts in in half but gets sprayed by acid on his helmet and he falls down face first into the black goo, the snake moves into Milburns helmet and melts it like in the trailer.
The film cuts back to David who is on his own opening the ampule and takes out this glass cylinder with some black goo in it (there is a scene earlier of him talking to a stasis chamber and saying 'yes i will do it sir'), he puts some goo in a bottle of alcohol and goes speaks to Holloway who is drunk and in a mood about all the engineers being gone or dead, David tricks him into drinking some more alcohol and therefor getting infected. After this scene. Holloway goes to his quarters and has sex with shaw.
Now its the next day and you see that scene of Holloway looking in the mirror and seeing that worm thing in his eye. Moving on and Janeck has lost contact with Fifield and Milburn and most of the crew get suited up and we go back to the pyramid. They find Milburns body and the snake thing jumps out of his mouth and scurries away, there is no sign of Fifield. While this is happening, David has gone off alone and somehow enters the jockey ship, there is a cargo hold full of ampules of black goo, David moves onto the 'bridge' and finds the star map, the stasis chambers of four jockeys which are all empty except one which has a living jockey in it. David finds some more buttons, pushes them and another hologram sequence comes up of 3 unsuited jockeys getting ready to take off for Earth to destroy us with the cargo full of black goo ampules (it never explains why). We find out that all these holograms were from 2000 years ago but they couldn't finish their plan because of an outbreak and they are all killed except the jockey in stasis (it seems a xeno outbreak as the dead jockey have been chestbursted but you never see xenos in the holograms.
Cut back to the others and Holloway is sick, Shaw tells them we have to get back to the ship so they all leave but by the time they reach the ship, Holloway is deformed and close to death. Vickers has a flamethrower and wont let them bring Holloway on board, Janeck tells her to move away but Holloway dashes to the side and pleads with her to burn him whuich she does, Shaw is distraught.
Next scene and we have Shaw on a medical table and David is telling her that she's pregnant, Shaw says its impossible and she can't have children but David says she's 3 months gone but its not normal (he says all this in an emotionless way), Shaw is upset and tells David to get it out of her, he won't and sedates her. Shaw is now seemingly sedated on a table but shes bluffing and attacks 2 crew members and makes a run for it down some corridoors into Vickers private quarters which just happens to have a med bay in it. Shaw messes with the controls, gets on the med table and the maching opens her up and takes out the squid chestburster, Shaw gets up and gases it (she thinks its dead) and leaves Vickers quarters, stubles down the corridoors into a room where David and Vickers are talking to a very old Weyland, he was alive and on the ship all along. Shaw asks why he's there and Weyland explains that he's close to death and he's come because if the Jockeys made us then maybe they can save his life, Shaw says that all the jockeys are dead but David interrupts and sayd he has found one still alive.
The film cuts back to the bridge and Janeck saying that he's got Fifields video signal back up and that he's outside the cargo doors, a few 'no name' members of the crew go to investigate and are butched by a very mutated and ridiculous looking Fifield (he has a huge deformed head), they eventually burn Fifield and the film cuts back to Shaw, Weyland, Vickers and David.
Weyland says he's going into the pyramid and onboard the jockey ship to wake up the jockey and speak to him, they all suit up again and head off back to the Jockey ship (Janeck and Vickers stay behind).
On the jockey ship now and David wakes up the jockey, Weyland stands in front of the Jockey telling David to translate what he's saying to the jockey. The jockey doesn't seem to pleased about all this and rips off Davids head and then smashes Weyland accross the face with Davids head killing him. The jockey then continues pummeling all the other party members but Shaw runs off and escapes. The jockey then messes around with the bridge controls, gets in the famous jockey chair and suits up. The camera cuts back to Shaw who's running on the surface towards the Prometheus, the ground starts opening up and Shaw is telling Janek that the jockey ship is taking off towards Earth and we won't have a home to go back to if he doesn't stop the ship, Janeck says the Prometheus isn't a military ship and has no weapons, Shaw says she knows but he has to stop the ship no matter what. Vickers is pissed off with this and Janeck tells her to get to an escape pod unless she wants to stcik around.
Janeck and 2 of his flight crew agree to take off and smash the prometheus into the jockey ship which is now high in the air., They head straight for the jockey ship and Vickers gets in a small escape pod and blast off and lands on the planet. The Prometheus crashes into the jockey ship and explodes. Shaw and Vickers are now on the surface looking up but the jockey ship is falling down towards them, they both run but the ship crashes on the surface and crushes Vickers but just misses Shaw.
Shaw gets up and heads towards the main escape bay (which was Vickers quarters, it was seperate to the ship and independant of it) but as she gets in the escape bay, David contacts her over the radio and says that the jockey has left the ship and is coming after her. Shaw looks around the escape bay and sees the med room where she had the operation to remove the squid chestburster, she sees that its huge now but lockes in the med bay. Suddenly the jockey comes at Shaw from behind and pins her agains a wall, Shaw quickly presses the med bay door button and the door opens up and the super squidhugger attacks the jockey and impregnates it through a tube down its throat (the squid thing seems like a xeno factory with 6 or more tubes coming from it).
Shaw escapes onto the surface and is crying with desperations, David contacts her again and says not to give up, there are other jockey ships and David can pilot them away from this place. Shaw gets up and tells David that she doesn't want to go back to Earth, she wants to go the the jockey homeworld to find out why they created us and why they then decided to destroy us, David says he can do this and Shaw walks off.
The film then plays Shaw saying the 'This is Elizabeth Shaw, last survivor of the Prometheus etc etc", you see another jockey ship taking off and flying away while we hear this Shaw transmission.
The film cuts to black for a few seconds then cuts back to the dead jockey who is now shaking, the jockey splits open from the front and the most ridiculous looking xeno pops out, stands up then starts screaming at the camera, the film cuts to black and ends.

[close]

Now my review -

Spoiler

Well first off, the film looks fantastic, the 3D is great and the effects are top notch, in fact the effects on the super squidhugger are arguably the best cgi i have seen yet, it still has that usual cgi look but it looks a level above what we usually get.
The sound is also great, the score is beautiful but strange at the same time as its quite an uplifting sounding score but they play it at parts where people are in peril or getting killed, it doesn't really fit the film and seems weird (its still a good sounding score though). The ALIEN theme playing in the Weyland hologram scene is cool as hell though and made me smile.
The film isn't scary unfortunately but the first half is very atmospheric while the crew are exploring the jockey pyramid, i was loving the film at this point.
Also i'd just like to say that the film is definately R rated, its not a borderline PG13 film here, there is gore, a couple of grusome and bloody deaths and there are at least  3 'f**ks' along with other swearing. Sure its not the most gory film you will ever see but i think all the 'will it or won't it be PG13' crap was just all publicity.
So all in all i'd say the first half of the film is very good, atmospheric and interesting.

Now the bad points.

There are so many questions and scenes that don't get answered, some scenes that are cut together and don't make sense (its obvious to me that the film was cut to get a 2 hour runtime) and at times it seems so confusing.
All the characters except Shaw, David and Vickers are so under written that you don't care about them at all, Janeck is quite cool but he's not in it much, all the other ones are basicly throw away characters there to be killed.
The jockey itself looks so silly to me, its great make up but the jockey looks the half formed clone at the end of 'The 6th Day', it would of been so much better if they kept the jockey looking like he did in ALIEN instead of making that a suit (this probbly comes down to personel opinion though). Also the Jockey wakes up and goes all Michael Myers on us, no explanation why, no explanation why they were heading to Earth to destroy us before the xeno outbreak killed them all 2000 years ago, no explanation for 90% of the stuff in the film to be honest.
Now one of my biggest problems is the final xeno scene, it looks hilariously bad, just absolutely god awful looking, it looks like PumpkinHead except with a weird Xeno head. It looks so far removed from what we know as a xeno that i'm willing to bet that many viewers won't even get the reference and be all wtf? with that scene, the scene also seems so cheap and tacked on, i'm a xeno fan and would of actually prefered if that scene wasn't even in the film!, its that bad.

There are other problems like the runtime not being long enough to answer much of anything with the film and a few other things but the film in its current state seems almost pointless, this is basicly the film in a nutshell -

Humans find cave paintings with a star map
Humans build a ship and head to the star system to speak to their creators and ask them why they made us
Humans land of the planet and find that all the creators are dead
Humans find one living creator, wake him up to ask him some questions and instead all get killed by him in a couple of minutes
The one Human survivor finds a creator ship and decides to go to the creator homeworld to ask them again

and thats it, nothing is explained about anything and it makes the film almost a pointless experience, sure answers will be coming up in possible sequels but at least give the viewer something to take from the film apart from nice music and great special effects.

I was going to give the film a 6.5/10 but the final scene with the xeno is so bad and laughable that i have to knock it down to a 6/10.
Setting this in the ALIEN universe is pointless, it would of been better to set it in its own universe with its own set of aliens etc.

Don't go in expecting the next ALIEN or ALIENS, you won't get that. Don't go in expecting many answers to anything as you wont get that either.

[close]

6/10

Quote from: Promethean Fire on Jun 01, 2012, 03:54:07 PM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:53:16 PM
Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus as a general science fiction film?

3/5

I would probably give this a 4 if I was completely unaware of far superior science fiction tales and the typical genre tropes.  The buzz I was getting from the audience I saw it with, was that they were really intruiged by the ideas of finding our creators.  For me though, I've heard the Shaggy God Story once too often.

We have to wait for next friday on June 8TH if we want to get 100% complete reviews of Prometheus from fans and critics.

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:53:16 PM
Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus, not as an Alien-related film, but as a science fiction film in general?

Sci-fi based, it's heaven, hardly any weapons, just straight out that's what we don't do just now sci-fi (4/5).

Hey fellas, can I ask something about the Hammerpedes?

Spoiler

I've gathered that the film implies that we either brought them with us, or they were on the planet and we let them into the goo.  But isn't there a scene where David brings an ampule back to the ship and its' filled with Hammerpedes?  I thought the fans had picked that scene apart and discovered that the urn had Hammerpedes in it...

[close]

Quote from: RagingDragon on Jun 01, 2012, 04:03:21 PM
Hey fellas, can I ask something about the Hammerpedes?

Spoiler

I've gathered that the film implies that we either brought them with us, or they were on the planet and we let them into the goo.  But isn't there a scene where David brings an ampule back to the ship and its' filled with Hammerpedes?  I thought the fans had picked that scene apart and discovered that the urn had Hammerpedes in it...

[close]

Spoiler

No, the urn has vials of liquid, which turn black when David shakes one of them. Then he breaks it open, takes a droplet and uses that to infect someone.
No hammerpedes in the urns

[close]

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 01, 2012, 04:07:06 PM

Quote from: RagingDragon on Jun 01, 2012, 04:03:21 PM
Hey fellas, can I ask something about the Hammerpedes?

Spoiler

I've gathered that the film implies that we either brought them with us, or they were on the planet and we let them into the goo.  But isn't there a scene where David brings an ampule back to the ship and its' filled with Hammerpedes?  I thought the fans had picked that scene apart and discovered that the urn had Hammerpedes in it...

[close]

Spoiler

No, the urn has vials of liquid, which turn black when David shakes one of them. Then he breaks it open, takes a droplet and uses that to infect someone.
No hammerpedes in the urns

[close]

Spoiler

It can be argued that there are tiny, microscopic parasitical Hammerpedes contained within the black ooze.  The first manifestation of Holloway's infection by David, is through the wriggling of a tiny worm in his eye. 

[close]

What i wrote elsewhere



A wasted opportunity. Absolutely dissappointed.

A great set up, first hour of interesting plot, feels like its going somewhere then.

*spoiler*

Shit gets real, the creatures in her. That scene, is the closest to the feeling of the original alien movies in years. It was great. Then its time for half an hour of space terror.....

But you dont get that. That scene happens, and then the film gives you a  bunch of shitty scenes, with plot holes and confusion. No scary creatures chasing people, not nothing. Just a load of shit.

They just cant make films like the first few aliens anymore, and thats that. They CANT do it. The film gives us a scary alien at the end.... yes, at the end. What the f**k. Why wasnt that crreature in the movie after the first hour, giving us the horror movie Ridley said he was out to make. Instead we just get Ridley jacking off his ego and not taking the film ANYWHERE.

*unspoiler*

I just HATE how the characters are wrote really badly, people just dont seem to react to things that have happened in the plot. Its just crap.

I was lucky enough to win premiere tickets in Perth, Australia
Which is a week before anyone else here
:)
(Y) GREAT SUCCESS!!!! (Y)

(I'll try to avoid spoilers so i don't have to go through and tag em)

I quite enjoyed the film myself

Of course, it doesn't top Alien
But I enjoyed the references they to it (like the little Alien motif in the score) and some of the designs were somewhat reminicent of the first films designs

Spoiler

The big tentacle creature reminded me somewhat of this pancake creature...
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8sv9gYsuLwc/TAo5HOus0tI/AAAAAAAAAQE/StB4a5S2slE/s1600/facehugger.jpg (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_8sv9gYsuLwc/TAo5HOus0tI/AAAAAAAAAQE/StB4a5S2slE/s1600/facehugger.jpg)

[close]

(SO I lied I put in spoilers ^)

Aesthetically I thought the film was shot beautifully, like all of Ridleys work of course
but as people have said there were many flaws in the story and...

Spoiler

Vickers death that way was uncalled for  :'( ...and why the hell don't they run to the side and not just forward and then stop on look at the thing...idiots...

[close]

Main let down for me was it wasn't scary enough, not so much suspense or at least the trailers ruined the most of them
:(

Other than that in my opinion it was a good film that stands alone and was one of the better this year so far
i say a 8/10 for me, because it felt really good to have a scifi that wasn't just based solely on explosions *cough* Transformers 2/3 *cough*
and its great to see Ridley back

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 12:12:30 PM
I've only read the 'its climax felt rushed' from maybe 3 people.

The ending was just a missed opportunity but its still not the worst ending her like some are making out. Ideally what this film could have done with is an extra 30 minutes in the running length, and I'm pretty sure they've shot a lot more than they showed us

Thanks for answering my Hammerpede question^ :-\ disappointing, but not entirely I suppose.

Quote from: RagingDragon on Jun 01, 2012, 04:25:18 PM
Thanks for answering my Hammerpede question^ :-\ disappointing, but not entirely I suppose.

The Hammerpede is kind of pointless actually. 

Spoiler

It has acid for blood, gets inside your body and kills you.  End of.  Millburn is the one and only victim of it.

[close]

I got to admit I did love this film, my expectations were high and it did deliver! Ok there were a few too many things going off for me and there was some stuff that wasn't neccary but overall I really enjoyed this film! The last 5 minutes I thought this is how It bridges into Alien but then something else "pops up" which ruined my theory of how it bridges! Tbf it is a stand alone movie but can definitely see the links to Alien! It does need and for me personally deserves a 2nd watch!

Slept on it, and hashed out my thoughts: http://alienseries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/prometheus-review.html (http://alienseries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/prometheus-review.html)

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 01, 2012, 04:23:46 PM

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 01, 2012, 12:12:30 PM
I've only read the 'its climax felt rushed' from maybe 3 people.

The ending was just a missed opportunity but its still not the worst ending her like some are making out. Ideally what this film could have done with is an extra 30 minutes in the running length, and I'm pretty sure they've shot a lot more than they showed us

Agreed, parts felt a little rushed!

I thought the designs of all the various Aliens were terrible also which is weird compared to everything else in the movie which looked great.

Quote from: Kimo on Jun 01, 2012, 04:56:56 AM
Just got back from seeing Prometheus...


Oh and another thing is that at the end of the film people were clapping... now i live in the UK and up north i never hear people clap infact this was my first time hearing people clap.

Haha, at my cinema (in Perth, Australia) we barely get clapping unless its a massive nerdfest, like when I went to the Star Wars EpIII Premiere
For this Prometheus premiere I was the one who started those mother fk-ers clapping
YEEEH BUDDDY!!

6.5/10

Mainly for great visuals and set design, the first half of Prometheus was everything I hope for, but after that the film really starts going down hill, the last 20 mins so badly editied, some scenes making no sense at all, or worse, being left  unexplained, while the final scene with you-know-what is just silly AvP style.

My short review from my film review website...http://allaboutfilm.tumblr.com/ (http://allaboutfilm.tumblr.com/)

Prometheus (2012)

A team of explorers heads out into the darkest depths of space to meet a race of beings who had given life to Earth. Excitement is running high until they get there and discover not all is what it seems. 

Now, as many people know, I've been harking on about this movie ever since I heard it was being made, but unlike a lot of fans out there i decided to not over-hype myself. Yes I talked about it a lot but I understood the fact that it wasn't going to be what I expected. So at mid-night May 31st 2012 I sat down and watched possibly the most interesting movie ever with open arms.

This movie will be a marmite movie. Audiences will either love it or hate it. I...well...I loved it! It breathed fresh new acidic life into the Alien franchise after the Appalling failures that were AVP & AVP2 and brought a whole new table of things to talk about. So many new things that I would advise seeing it twice or maybe three times. 

There were a few of issues that bugged me with Ridley's return to sci-fi: 1) Too many sub-characters, they were just there to rack up the body count. 2) The last 30 seconds. It was awesome to know that thing was out there (so to speak), but I felt it could have been handled with more class; and 3) the open ending. This is only a concern if a sequel is never made.

Apart from those three things I loved it all. Prometheus looks absolutely stunning the effects were some of the best I've seen and blended so well with the mind-blowing set pieces! The score (I might be the only one who says this) was beautiful and fitted perfectly with the scale of the movie. All the creatures (especially the Engineers) were terrifying and badass, even if their life cycle was a little blurry at times and the cast were all on top form especially Michael Fassbender, Noomi Rapace, Idris Elba and Charlize Theron. They were sympathetic and believable from start to finish.         

Not a classic like Alien but a blinding romp through sci-fi horror, a genre that had been missed for a long time. Prometheus is a genuinely scary roller-coaster ride with nail-biting scene after nail-biting scene. I look forward to the sequel Riddles, if you're reading this. 

8/10

Just remembered one detail that might put a tiny smile on peoples faces, including those who haven't seen it yet.

Remember the trailer/tv-spot shots of the Prometheus arriving at the planetoid, displaying those huge PROMETHEUS letters on the side of the hull and how it looked quite bad? I'm happy to report that they are gone in the finished film - 100% gone.  :)

I agree with every point made here.

So much just seemed rushed, unexplained and the script is really shoddy.

Spoiler

It started when Shaw clearly mark the MedPod out blatantly for use later on and just got worse with clunky lines, weak characters and ridiculous looking creatures.

[close]

Nicely filmed, but I just cannot believe how Ridley Scott thought that script was good.

Basically, all the decent bits AND storyline are revealed in the trailer also.

Very disappointed - 4/10 for me.

I appreciate the responce bud, it took me an age to write lol.

Are these posts created by people who want to seriously lower audience expectations for the movie? 4/10 is a little harsh. Judging by the footage alone, the movie even with a clunky screenplay can still garter a 6/10 to 7/10

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 01, 2012, 03:53:16 PM
Reviewers of this thread, what rating would you give Prometheus, not as an Alien-related film, but as a science fiction film in general?

Difficult to say... it's certainly the best sci/fi thriller in years. I don't think it's as good as The Matrix say (although of course The Matrix is not really a thriller), but infinitely better than stuff like Event Horizon, Sunshine etc. Ultimately, I don't think it comes close to Alien or Aliens... how could it? But it's head and shoulders above everything else that has copied that Alien/Aliens template over the past 20/30 years. Another thing - it's the only movie, other than possibly Aliens, that's the most reminiscent of Alien, but at the same time, it's the most removed (due to the lack of xeno's no doubt).

As an Alien movie - 8/10
As a Sci/Fi movie - 7.5/10

Quote from: zakzak on Jun 01, 2012, 06:54:57 PM
Are these posts created by people who want to seriously lower audience expectations for the movie? 4/10 is a little harsh. Judging by the footage alone, the movie even with a clunky screenplay can still garter a 6/10 to 7/10

Well, with respect, our views are based on the entire 124 minutes of the film, not the 5 minutes or so of clips and trailers. May I suggest you see the film yourself and form your own view before criticising the views of others. We all have our own opinions - there are as many people ecstatic with the film as those who dislike it. I hope you fall into the first camp.

Quote from: Mastes1 on Jun 01, 2012, 06:49:51 PM
I appreciate the responce bud, it took me an age to write lol.

Well, it saved me writing it mate!

Quote from: zakzak on Jun 01, 2012, 06:54:57 PM
Are these posts created by people who want to seriously lower audience expectations for the movie? 4/10 is a little harsh. Judging by the footage alone, the movie even with a clunky screenplay can still garter a 6/10 to 7/10

Maybe, but I am factoring in the missed opportunity and my disappointment of the film.
It was just so off  >:( and I hate to say it.

Quote from: zakzak on Jun 01, 2012, 06:54:57 PM
Are these posts created by people who want to seriously lower audience expectations for the movie? 4/10 is a little harsh. Judging by the footage alone, the movie even with a clunky screenplay can still garter a 6/10 to 7/10

To be honest, its probably a good thing to lower your expectations.

Just come back from seeing the movie. Went with 2 mates and actually loved it to bits. Not the best at reviews but  I can honestly say it was worth the wait. Still Lots of questions to be answered in a sequel but nice and original . Sooooooooooo happy.
Thank you Ridley  :)

The Dutch fans (i am too  ;D )are quite happy with the movie! 3,73/5
http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820/votes/ (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820/votes/)

Quote from: Eva on Jun 01, 2012, 06:44:51 PM
Just remembered one detail that might put a tiny smile on peoples faces, including those who haven't seen it yet.

Remember the trailer/tv-spot shots of the Prometheus arriving at the planetoid, displaying those huge PROMETHEUS letters on the side of the hull and how it looked quite bad? I'm happy to report that they are gone in the finished film - 100% gone.  :)

Awesome! ;D

Can you comment on any of these - if they stayed with the newer version or switched back to the original shots:

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi45.tinypic.com%2For5xms.jpg&hash=a4d68f6ba3a6757c99ddd7d0f843cd5497ab8555)

[close]

If I'm not mistaken, in some new TV spots and featurettes, I think they switched back to the original cleaner shot of Shaw being blown away by the storm.  That's great if they did and I'm curious to know if some of the reverts were because they've been paying attention. ;D

Mostly the after shots if memory serves me right. I seem to remember David turning the ampule upside down and the black goo is only at the bottom - the rest somewhat transparent. He breaks something off and manages to catch a drop of it. Wasn't this in one of the clip promos?

For Shaw getting caught in the storm, I seem to remember there being a hell of a lot of debris in the air, dust, sand, rocks...

The engineer has the map hologram on while he sits in the chair and he operates some of the controls. The sound effects in this scene are just unreal.

SPOILERS

I watched Prometheus twice in a row, first time with mates, the second time alone putting jokes aside and taking it all in, I wasn't at all disappointed by the fact that Alien Alien wasn't in it and I thought I would be. I saw it more as a prequel of a prequel which makes me think that Yutani finds the next location for the next film. I thought I'd go in and have all my questions answers couldn't be happier to be disappointed. Although know we know why Alien is so aggressive without remorse or compromise and why it has no illusions of morality.

Vickers was my favorite, a strong woman taking no shit plus she killed that prick Holloway and the extra bit of her story; her looking for what she felt was a birthright 'Weyland Industries' the whole daddy little girl turned rouge was... Attractive :-* Also how she interacted with David was interesting to say the least. I don't know where I stand on David as a character because he had his A.I. moments like when Weyland said he didn't have a soul which made me feel for him a bit but to rub the death of Shaw father in her face was sick and uncalled for, I loved when he asked Shaw "What could you possibly want to know?", Shaw "Why they created us then wanted to destroy us? What did we do wrong?". Another David vs Shaw moment being; David: "I was afraid you were dead" Shaw: "You don't know what it's like to be afraid David". I thought Shaw was in alright not Ridely's strongest protagonist which made a nice change, until she turned into a psycho woman drugged herself a shit load of times and went about her day as if she hadn't just given birth some monstrous creature. I thought she was really weak up until that point but the turn was so sudden that I thought that thing (the engineer) was gonna talk to her. Because by the end of the film she was like "Look! >:( I came her looking for my answers and by YOU I will get them! >:("

I went in hoping that the film was gonna scare me and it did, top 3 horrific points;

1. The snake going down that guys throat, My heart was pounding!
2. The head before exploding, I didn't know what to expect I was on the edge of my seat.
3. When the new alien did it's thing ;), made me jump it was so f**king creepy but in the BEST way! ;D

Overall I enjoyed the film worth the wait, worth knowing next to nothing about it.

SPOILERS END

Quote from: Laufey on Jun 01, 2012, 02:56:10 AM
Holloway was a total douche and I wasn't the least bit sorry to see him go up in flames.

I couldn't agree more. My mate was like "David was an asshole" David was doing as his told it what you'd expect.

Hi

Been lurking on this site for a while now! A few people aren't gonna like what I say! Alien is probably my best film ever apart from The Shining which I think is on par. But this film is one of the biggest let downs Ive ever seen I am well gutted! :(. Where was the atmosphere? I know this is trying to be a separate film to alien but the designs were awful! I laughed at scenes! Arrghhhh! Am so gutted! Please don't do Bladerunner 2 if this is what you have to offer leave that alone.

Needed to be said. I am now off to cry myself to sleep.

Gall

5 out 10

WARNING TOTAL SPOILER REVIEW

Pretty much matched my high expectations, albeit not in the way I thought. Which is positive cause the movie surprised me! I loved how un-Alien it was, it really is it's own beast even though obviously set in the same universe.

First-most I must mention the visuals, what incredible visuals! Photography, camera-work, visual-effects, CGI, set-design, 3D, it all came together in an absolutely gorgeous and immersive way. Top notch all the way, oh how I have missed you in sci-fi Ridley! Visually it's a masterpiece in my mind.

Now to the script and story. Not amazing, but better then I expected! I was afraid the meaning-of-life stuff would try too hard, but to my liking it didn't try to give any answers or be too deep. Instead it focused on the actual sci-fi elements and after seeing this film I don't wanna discuss the mysteries of life, I wanna discuss the mysteries of the Prometheus universe. And what a rich univese they have created. It leaves you with so much memorable and striking imagery. Also a lot of thoughts about how it all works and how it all hangs together, even though it's not meant to have a one true answer. The movie drills into your mind and sure doesn't leave it when it's over, quite the opposite it's still drilling. Can't stop thinking about it and all I wanna do is see it again.

One fear was also that the movie would de-mystify the first Alien movie, but I loved how infact it gave more new questions than answers to old questions.

Now the movie has some flaws. As far as the narrative and pacing goes, it could have been much better. Well I loved the first and the last act, it's the middle that drags a bit and feels forced. Otherwise I love the slow and uneventful beginning of the movie. Love the scenes with David walking around the ship. Even though as a whole the movie doesn't always flow perfectly, there is always individual scenes around to blow you away. The scene when David discovers the Engineer-ship is just beautiful for example.

The last part of the movie, from Shaws operation and onwards it's just a big huge intense pay-off for the contemplating, mystery and searching. It's more intense and captivating though than horrifying, and that's where the movie surprised me and I guess will disappoint some people. But I don't mind at all, I was still on the edge of my seat in the end! The fans who wanted this to be more akin to Alien will be disappointed. At parts it's actually more beautiful than scary.

The scene where David wakes up the engineer is so tense and thrilling at the same time. Loved the engineer himself, very bad-ass and mysterious.

So about the new monster, Shaw's baby. It isn't a brilliant piece of design or anything and I know that will disappoint many fans. But damn it's freaky, it did it's job for me and really creeped me out. Especially cause it seemed to primitive and identity-less, yet so complicated. The plot-point about experimenting with DNA to create life and bio-weapons really works for me. Making the whole thing about life very unpredictable and I love how the engineers had been killed by their own engineering.

Some of the characters were weak parts of the movie, especially Holloway which is unfortunate since he plays quite a big part. Both poorly written and woodenly acted. Vickers had potential but often fell flat and the twist with her was predictable and uninspiring. Some of the characters worked great though so it wasn't all bad. Shaw and David were both solidly characterized and greatly acted, Fassbender and Rapace shined, especially together. I also liked Idris Elba's character, one to sympathize with and relate to. Something that lacked in most of the other side-characters, they never felt like real people which made a lot of the action with them feel unengaging.

Also some things in the movie I felt were missed opportunities. I would have wanted to see the new creatures have more screen-time and kill more humans. A lot of the deaths of human-characters were very unmemorable and uninspiring.

But the thing that left the biggest impression and impact on me was the last 15 minutes and the very ending. Loved how Shaw teamed up with David and how it showed that even though the events of the movie had been huge it was still just a tiny piece of an endless puzzle. Totally satisfying ending for me and I was about to prepare for credits when... Proto-Xeno!! Damn, one of the biggest and coolest nerdgasms of my life. It looked awesome!

I really hope this movie does well and that the lukewarm reviews get outnumbered by the positive ones. Cause I NEED a sequel to this, I need more of this world. I hope the making of this movie struck a nerve in old Ridley when it comes to making sci-fi, cause with this one he really showed me that he still has some of that magic in him.

A strong 4 out of 5 from me, 4,5 if you so will. Sorry for the rambling though, I'm still exhilarated from the movie.

QuoteFirst-most I must mention the visuals, what incredible visuals! Photography, camera-work, visual-effects, CGI, set-design, 3D, it all came together in an absolutely gorgeous and immersive way. Top notch all the way, oh how I have missed you in sci-fi Ridley! Visually it's a masterpiece in my mind.

I 100% agree with CGI and the use of 3D (for once even if I'm against and I hate 3D, It didn't bother me much and felt even natural).
The CGI were mind blowing as you said.

But the camera work and Photography was laughable.
He ain't Terrence Malick or Stanley Kubrick and even Indie director as Steve Macqueen, Gaspard Noé and many others performs much better with less budget.

Amazing film! Loved it! The CGI was fantastic and the 3D was good! The only thing is that I wish they included more horor but other than that it was great! 4 out of 5.

Just got home...

I'm still a bit confused, really. At the moment my opinion is that while the film was nowhere near as bad as some people here say, it wasn't a masterpiece, either.

Let's just start off with something obvious: the film looks absolutely amazing. And this is coming from someone who values story and realistic characters over everything else, and doesn't usually get that excited about sheer visuals. But Prometheus is just beautiful. The 3D isn't overpowering, and unlike in many recent CGI-heavy films, the camera actually stays in place for longer than 3 seconds at a time, actually giving the viewer a chance to really see what's happening!

The acting was also generally very good, with Rapace, Fassbender and Theron being great. I read a review which seemed to put down Theron's performance, but I really can't agree with that. I think she played the part perfectly. And LMG wasn't bad, either.

I had absolutely no problem with the story in general, but the execution felt rushed. Like there was too much stuff crammed in, and the film tried to be a little bit of everything. I understand that most moviegoers have a taste different that mine, and that Alien was released over 30 years ago, but I still love the way that movie is paced. It takes it's time. The story of Prometheus , on the other hand, is constantly in a hurry to go somewhere, and as a result the atmosphere is somewhat lacking. I know the reference to Alien isn't entirely fair: Alien is such a simple story, while Prometheus tries to ask some huge philosophical questions. But maybe there's a limit to how many elements you can, and should, include in a 2-hour movie. While watching Prometheus, I found myself emotionally disconnected from the characters and the story. I didn't really care about them or feel sympathy, and the tension didn't rise with every crew member dying.

Oh, and the score sucked.

3/5

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 05:20:04 PM
I thought the designs of all the various Aliens were terrible also which is weird compared to everything else in the movie which looked great.

With the exceptions of the Engineers and the Hammerpedes who I thought were pretty cool I agree with you.
The other creatures were completely laughable B movie shite and not the type of thing you'd expect to see in the high end fare that Ridley Scott has been known to produce

Giger should've been in charge of this aspect of the movie and we'd have had something far more unsettling and genuinely 'otherworldly'.....I mean giant squids and that bad joke at the end !!???

WTF !!!????

The set design and tech was all fantastic though which is why the crappy laughable monsters are so disappointing

Quote from: JKS1 on Jun 01, 2012, 10:02:55 PM

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 05:20:04 PM
I thought the designs of all the various Aliens were terrible also which is weird compared to everything else in the movie which looked great.

With the exceptions of the Engineers and the Hammerpedes who I thought were pretty cool I agree with you.
The other creatures were completely laughable B movie shite and not the type of thing you'd expect to see in the high end fare that Ridley Scott has been known to produce

Giger should've been in charge of this aspect of the movie and we'd have had something far more unsettling and genuinely 'otherworldly'.....I mean giant squids and that bad joke at the end !!???

WTF !!!????

The set design and tech was all fantastic though which is why the crappy laughable monsters are so disappointing

The first creature you see

*spoiler* The one that makes the first kill *end spoiler*

When i saw it, you know what it looked like. The garbage alien out of Star Wars IV (the one that pulls luke under the water as walls are closing in)

It's funny how some people seem to think material was crammed in and the movie could have been improved with a longer cut. I'm of the exact opposite view. I thought at least 10 mins could have been taken out and it would have made the movie much tighter... and I say this as someone who thought it was good. I'd doubt very much if Scott will have a directors cut (unless just to make money), as additional/extended scenes would just detract.

Ok so i'm just back from seeing Prometheus.

My review which will have spoilers and probably suck due to me not doing reviews at all ever...

Spoiler

I am pretty dissapointed to be honest, there where a few decent standout parts to the film, ie Fassbenders role, Noomi, the Sets and the cinematography, plus i quite enjoyed watching idris elba and theron work.

However, the main letdown for me was the whole jockey is a guy in a suit thing, it just doesn't work.

I have always viewed the space jockey as some grotesque, terrifying and otherworldy alien completley detatched from anything even remotley related to our world, now confirmed by shaws DNA examination it is, us?  Major heartache there.

Also, the creature designs where awful, really they where. The squid creature birthed by shaw was totally shit, and the final shot of the proto alien just reminded me of this Japanese AVP ripoff called Alien Vs Ninja:
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fqiq.ws%2Fmedia%2Fnpict%2F1104%2Fbig%2Fchuzhie_protiv_nindzya_alien_vs_ninja_2010_hdrip_mp4_1019187.jpeg&hash=1f5540ec82566ea96d99484823494ce82b26e0ae)

Theres alot more stuff that also really pissed me off which i am far too tired to go into right now, but i'll end by saying that i believe Prometheus is a mediocre Sci-Fi movie that would have been best having no relation to the Alien franchise whatsoever, allowing the films shortcomings (As a movie which just happens to be explaining the meaning of everything, who the Space Jockey was, and all within the ALien universe) far far easier for myself and i'm dam sure many other long time Alien fans to accept and walk away from.

For me its back to my Alien/ALiens Blu-Ray once again. 

[close]

My full review


This is the summed up version.  Spoiler free version.

Imagine the original Alien. Imagine you get the first hour.... but instead of delivering the amazing second half of the film, the part with nail biting terror and suspense.... it doesnt... it goes nowhere and gives you none of that. Thats Prometheus.

Spoiler version.

The film begins strong, with a great set up and some amazing set pieces. The music is too nice, sounds more like a fantasy adventure movie theme than a sci-fi/horror theme.... it made everything seem lighter.

They demystify the space jockeys.... terribly. Instead of something interesting they are basically giant rubber humans.... not scary or interesting in the slightest...quite laughable.  David is the most interesting character...but unlike Ash he doesnt deliver one what the story promises. Many plot points are totally pointless or looked over. David spikes someones drink with the alien DNA. Why does he do this? they never answer this.... and it doesnt achieve anything. He doesnt seem remotely bothered by this plan he hatched up. When Naomis character gets impregnated, David drugs her up, specifically to freeze her and take her back to earth. So you think "ahh, the Weyland agenda"..... Now this is where you think the film is going to get amazing. 

The following scene in which Naomis character struggles to the medical bay machine thing, and has it perform an emergy ceserian.... is the best scene in the entire movie. That scene was AMAZING, it was literally like watching the ripley dream sequence from Aliens for the first time. I was on the edge of my seat, the music got all serious. I turned to my girlfriend and went "holy shit, this is just like Aliens". That scene was f**king amazing. From that point i expected the film to go down the route of 30 minutes of the new creatures killing people and Naomis character trying to survive and destroy the ship or escape.... This does not happen. Instead they kill the momentum with the most confusing and pointless plot twist that could have been imagined. Suddenly David and the others forget about the plan they had to freezer her. They dont seem to care, they ifnact allow her to come along with them and Weyland to speak to aspace jockey. I was literally banging my head at the severe stupidity of this. There are many scenes in this film where actions are taken and then discarded pointlessly. Many of the characters that Ridley spends half the film building up, are just discarded pointlessly.

Charleze Therons character ended  up being pointless. If you really think on it, she served no purpose and they never really put her character anywhere.  the creature designs sucked, they were terrible... you can tell H.R Giger hadnt designed them, you can tell Stan Winston is no longer with us also.  So many scenes get set up, but they just dont get used. So many possible stories get set up, but they dont get used. Instead huge plot holes get generated, aswell as some bad continuity to other Alien movies including the original Alien.

The ending was stupid. She decides not to go home, but to go travel the galaxy and visit the Space Jockeys home world.... Its that easy? What about supplies, food, etc. She can just hop into an Alien vessel with David (the guy that killed her husband, and tried to kill her multiple times) and go site seeing. Absolutely awful ending.  So much more i could write... but whats the point, youll either know exactly what im talking about... or completely disagree with me. Those are my thoughts, peace.

Good scenes
The sandstorm.
Medical Bay "Abortion"
Arm breaker face rape.

Thats about it.....

Bad... most of the movie.

MrLee i love your review, because it is EXACTLY what i wanted to write but just could not be bothered to type.

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 11:34:14 PM
My full review


This is the summed up version.  Spoiler free version.

Imagine the original Alien. Imagine you get the first hour.... but instead of delivering the amazing second half of the film, the part with nail biting terror and suspense.... it doesnt... it goes nowhere and gives you none of that. Thats Prometheus.

Spoiler version.

The film begins strong, with a great set up and some amazing set pieces. The music is too nice, sounds more like a fantasy adventure movie theme than a sci-fi/horror theme.... it made everything seem lighter.

They demystify the space jockeys.... terribly. Instead of something interesting they are basically giant rubber humans.... not scary or interesting in the slightest...quite laughable.  David is the most interesting character...but unlike Ash he doesnt deliver one what the story promises. Many plot points are totally pointless or looked over. David spikes someones drink with the alien DNA. Why does he do this? they never answer this.... and it doesnt achieve anything. He doesnt seem remotely bothered by this plan he hatched up. When Naomis character gets impregnated, David drugs her up, specifically to freeze her and take her back to earth. So you think "ahh, the Weyland agenda"..... Now this is where you think the film is going to get amazing. 

The following scene in which Naomis character struggles to the medical bay machine thing, and has it perform an emergy ceserian.... is the best scene in the entire movie. That scene was AMAZING, it was literally like watching the ripley dream sequence from Aliens for the first time. I was on the edge of my seat, the music got all serious. I turned to my girlfriend and went "holy shit, this is just like Aliens". That scene was f**king amazing. From that point i expected the film to go down the route of 30 minutes of the new creatures killing people and Naomis character trying to survive and destroy the ship or escape.... This does not happen. Instead they kill the momentum with the most confusing and pointless plot twist that could have been imagined. Suddenly David and the others forget about the plan they had to freezer her. They dont seem to care, they ifnact allow her to come along with them and Weyland to speak to aspace jockey. I was literally banging my head at the severe stupidity of this. There are many scenes in this film where actions are taken and then discarded pointlessly. Many of the characters that Ridley spends half the film building up, are just discarded pointlessly.

Charleze Therons character ended  up being pointless. If you really think on it, she served no purpose and they never really put her character anywhere.  the creature designs sucked, they were terrible... you can tell H.R Giger hadnt designed them, you can tell Stan Winston is no longer with us also.  So many scenes get set up, but they just dont get used. So many possible stories get set up, but they dont get used. Instead huge plot holes get generated, aswell as some bad continuity to other Alien movies including the original Alien.

The ending was stupid. She decides not to go home, but to go travel the galaxy and visit the Space Jockeys home world.... Its that easy? What about supplies, food, etc. She can just hop into an Alien vessel with David (the guy that killed her husband, and tried to kill her multiple times) and go site seeing. Absolutely awful ending.  So much more i could write... but whats the point, youll either know exactly what im talking about... or completely disagree with me. Those are my thoughts, peace.

Good scenes
The sandstorm.
Medical Bay "Abortion"
Arm breaker face rape.

Thats about it.....

Bad... most of the movie.

Looks like you were expecting too much MrLee.

^ Was it really too much to expect Ridley to take the movie somewhere? Alot of people are saying similar things, i dont think i expected too much at all, Ridley just didnt deliver the movie many people were hoping to get.

The reason im so angry is because the first hour he sets the movie up perfectly, and with the medical bay scene he proves he can still do horror.... why why why did he miss the opportunity to give us a great tense finale?

ALIEN film or general Sci-Fi film, it's weak and lazy regarding the thematics who were supposed to be approached by the film. They have promised to us a trip about creation and evolution but there is almost nothing about that. It works because technically it's perfectly executed but in a matter of content for a big Sci-Fi film directed by Sir Ridley Scott, i'm sorry but i found it very poor. What can we expect from the Jon Spaiths, the man who wrote The Darkest Hour and from Damon Lidelof ? Nothing of course. Nothing but emptyness and xxx questions for no answers.

A few examples of how i feel, just to add a bit of light hearted humour to this situation.



Me to my girlfriend "Oh my god, this is just like aliens, this is getting awesome" *Film then gives plot twist*

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi0.kym-cdn.com%2Fphotos%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2F000%2F096%2F044%2Ftrollface.jpg%3F1296494117&hash=8d31f2ca9d4ceb7a9f24c2f9efbbd40f0a5daf1c)

When the credits roll

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBtpyeLxVkI# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBtpyeLxVkI#)

The facts.

1. Jon Spaihts - he turned in a first draft for The Darkest Hour and it was re-written several times
2. Lindelof - He has more hits than misses. He was one of many many writers on Cowboys and Aliens

I have a hard time people judging the art for them not liking it. But to each their own.

Quote from: Promethean Fire on Jun 01, 2012, 04:29:48 PM

Quote from: RagingDragon on Jun 01, 2012, 04:25:18 PM
Thanks for answering my Hammerpede question^ :-\ disappointing, but not entirely I suppose.

The Hammerpede is kind of pointless actually. 

Spoiler

It has acid for blood, gets inside your body and kills you.  End of.  Millburn is the one and only victim of it.

[close]

So why is the hammerpede needed by the space jockeys? How does it fit into the life cycle of the

Spoiler

proto alien?

[close]

Perhaps they took its dna and mixed it with the same species as the thing that comes out of shaw to create the regular aliens we know of. (just not depicted in the film)

^ The Hammerpede isnt of any relevance, im sure its created accidentally when

*spoiler*

the little worns in the ground crawl into the black goo

*end spoiler*

Does anyone else agree the scene where they give the briefing to the crew is an corny as the AVP briefing scene?

"AND YET".  "An invitation".  Those two lines, the way they are delivered.... ... so cheesy.

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 11:56:42 PM
^ The Hammerpede isnt of any relevance, im sure its created accidentally when

*spoiler*

the little worns in the ground crawl into the black goo

Now I'm confused, why do they have acid for blood then, if they were unintentionally created and not related in any way to the xenomorphs? Are the worms simply inhabitants of lv-223?
Also though if they grow into the hammerpede things in like 2 seconds I'll be pissed.  :D

Quote from: Ballzanya on Jun 02, 2012, 12:00:34 AM

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 11:56:42 PM
^ The Hammerpede isnt of any relevance, im sure its created accidentally when

*spoiler*

the little worns in the ground crawl into the black goo

Now I'm confused, why do they have acid for blood then, if they were unintentionally created and not related in any way to the xenomorphs? Are the worms simply inhabitants of lv-223?
Also though if they grow into the hammerpede things in like 2 seconds I'll be pissed.  :D

People that havent seen the film and dont want spoilers, just dont read my posts if they have large paragraphs

Its over the course of a few hours. Im sure its the worms, they make a specific point of showing the worms upon entry. And then later showing the worms swimming in the pool of goo.

Ive no idea why they have acid for blood. One of the statues on the wall looks like THE alien... maybe its the same gene pool. Either way it makes no f**king sense. I mean, they make it as if the "proto alien" comes from an infected space jockey. So tell me why the space jockeys on LV-426 have the alien eggs stored as if they engineered them, why they have facehuggers that are all the same. If this one creature came from a mistake, long after the jockeys are gone. Tell me how this ties into the Alien saga. I cant see it.

I think the little worms and the Xeno-Snakes are two different things but both inhabitants of the planet.

Quote from: EEV-2501 on Jun 02, 2012, 12:04:24 AM
I think the little worms and the Xeno-Snakes are two different things but both inhabitants of the planet.

But the snakes are not there originally, they come from out of the goo, which is what makes me think the worms getting covered in it morphed into those. No scene indicates or suggests other ccreatures are there etc. Plus they can facehug and control which suggests a relation to the "DNA weapon Goo" the jockeys had stockpiles of.

I think they are just lurking around in the pyramid.

Quote from: EEV-2501 on Jun 02, 2012, 12:08:23 AM
I think they just lurking around in the pyramid.

Why did the geologists even go back into that room anyway.... *over 9000*

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 02, 2012, 12:09:17 AM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on Jun 02, 2012, 12:08:23 AM
I think they just lurking around in the pyramid.

Why did the geologists even go back into that room anyway.... *over 9000*

Cause the screenplay is lame. I don't know.  ;)

97 percent fresh from fans on Rotten Tomatoes! CRAZY

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 02, 2012, 12:03:33 AM

Quote from: Ballzanya on Jun 02, 2012, 12:00:34 AM

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 11:56:42 PM
^ The Hammerpede isnt of any relevance, im sure its created accidentally when

*spoiler*

the little worns in the ground crawl into the black goo

Now I'm confused, why do they have acid for blood then, if they were unintentionally created and not related in any way to the xenomorphs? Are the worms simply inhabitants of lv-223?
Also though if they grow into the hammerpede things in like 2 seconds I'll be pissed.  :D

People that havent seen the film and dont want spoilers, just dont read my posts if they have large paragraphs

Its over the course of a few hours. Im sure its the worms, they make a specific point of showing the worms upon entry. And then later showing the worms swimming in the pool of goo.

Ive no idea why they have acid for blood. One of the statues on the wall looks like THE alien... maybe its the same gene pool. Either way it makes no f**king sense. I mean, they make it as if the "proto alien" comes from an infected space jockey. So tell me why the space jockeys on LV-426 have the alien eggs stored as if they engineered them, why they have facehuggers that are all the same. If this one creature came from a mistake, long after the jockeys are gone. Tell me how this ties into the Alien saga. I cant see it.

Well, the hammerpedes are in the trailer so I didn't think I needed a spoiler tag to mention them here.  ;D

Just seen today on a 3D screen today.

I will admit I came in with huge expectations though tempered by previous reviews yet I was keen to be open minded for new unexpected scares which is what I wanted.

First off the 3D effect is sublime when the spacecraft goes in for the landing, there is a huge depth in the framing of each shot its just fantastic.  Pretty much all the major establishing shots look amazing.

I thought the exploration element wasnt taken as far as it could go especially with the two scared team members left behind.  I thought that could have been an oppurtunity for exploring more of the mystery of the wipe out of the SJs.

Characters wise, Fassbender does an exceptional job of creating a friendly character that whist still keeping friendly takes on a more menacing angle as the film goes on, it really was well done.  Noomi as Shaw does a good job but takes on elements of heroism that dont play out even when we know her convictions, I think it needed another step.

The scares, well there were not any in the sense of unique set ups, they usually used weird OTT SFX hits to accentuate the jump scare which I thought was pretty cheap.

The creatures,  I really liked the snake scene though I felt it was a bit forced and all the other action moments didnt seem to go anywhere or have connotations so Im thinking alot was cut out of the theatrical edit.  The proto Alien at the end just left me cold, terrible concept.  I thought the Alien 3 birthing scene was pretty powerful like in Hell Raiser 1  but this didnt have any of the menace of both of those films.

Altogeher I was left dissapointed that Scott seemed to have only taken the helm for choreography which is brilliant but left the storytelling to someone who cannot decide on any constistent primal menace which pretty much left everyone confused.

3/5

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 01, 2012, 11:53:46 PM
A few examples of how i feel, just to add a bit of light hearted humour to this situation.



Me to my girlfriend "Oh my god, this is just like aliens, this is getting awesome" *Film then gives plot twist*

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi0.kym-cdn.com%2Fphotos%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2F000%2F096%2F044%2Ftrollface.jpg%3F1296494117&hash=8d31f2ca9d4ceb7a9f24c2f9efbbd40f0a5daf1c)

When the credits roll

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBtpyeLxVkI# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBtpyeLxVkI#)

That's a perfect way to sum up the ending. ;D

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 02, 2012, 12:09:17 AM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on Jun 02, 2012, 12:08:23 AM
I think they just lurking around in the pyramid.

Why did the geologists even go back into that room anyway.... *over 9000*

They didn't. they hadn't been in the room, they left for the ship before the others entered it.

Quote from: ThisBethesdaSea on Jun 02, 2012, 12:13:32 AM
97 percent fresh from fans on Rotten Tomatoes! CRAZY

Im hoping it will change to more accurately display the quality of the film over the next week

---

Quote from: Gash on Jun 02, 2012, 12:27:23 AM

Quote from: MrLee on Jun 02, 2012, 12:09:17 AM

Quote from: EEV-2501 on Jun 02, 2012, 12:08:23 AM
I think they just lurking around in the pyramid.

Why did the geologists even go back into that room anyway.... *over 9000*

They didn't. they hadn't been in the room, they left for the ship before the others entered it.

They had been outside it though, they didnt like the look of it first time, why go back a second time... and enter.... aswell as not leave the room the moment they saw weird creatures.

As fair as I recall Milburn and Fifield leave the team when they see the body and before the door is opened. They go back in that direction after they're stranded and Janek spooks them with the 'ping' so they just go back in the direction they came from and look for somewhere to take refuge till after the storm. They haven't seen anything of the room to make them more wary of it than the corpse strewn corridor.

POLL!

What scares you the most:
-Dead body in a corridor.
-Snake like creature from another planet very alive.

Quote from: Le Celticant on Jun 02, 2012, 01:01:36 AM
POLL!

What scares you the most:
-Dead body in a corridor.
-Snake like creature from another planet very alive.

They assumed the room was empty. They were getting away from the 'ping' of a life form after being spooked by the site of a horde of bodies piled up at a doorway as if trying to escape. Yep, given the choice I'd go and sit and wait in what appeared to be an empty room.

So up until the final act of the film, are you guys generally satisfied with the product?

watched prometheus at 8pm uk time..

my honest thoughts?....

it started pretty well and has some amazing cinematography and i was also impressed with the 3d which gave some great depth to some of the scenes, but the starmap scene was just a carbon copy of the scene on the ship from avp1, and also made little sense as theyre just about to arrive at the planet before anyone is told why theyre even going there....

but i got over that and the film started to build into something promising.... fassbender is excellent as the borderline psychotic android and also i dont really get the critisism of logan marshall green as to me it appeared as though he was meant to play a character who was a bit of an ass to set up the whole reason for david to dislike him (and do what he did to him)and he did the job well.

but after the tension was built and all the pieces were set up for a good finish... it all went downhill fast, the film is a mess, bad editing, absolutely laughable creature design, uninspiring story, crap score which sounds more like it belongs in superman with the repetitive upbeat jingle and crappy forgettable characters (apart from fassbender who was excellent as david).

now as a long time alien movie fan, i was a little worried as soon as i saw some of the designs for suits, ship, holograms and flashy screens, etc and didnt think they were very fitting in the already established alien universe, now i understood why they took those decisions as they had to keep up with modern sci fi movies, so i chose to ignore that element as i was sure that ridley would deliver on story and creatures..... but no, the story makes things even worse and totally ruins the alien life cycle thats been established in the previous movies, it seriously makes no sense whatsoever anymore, and the creature designs belong in some silly b movie, in fact, if the asylum rips prometheus off then even they might desing/make better creatures than what we have here.....

now just to explain why the life cycle makes no sense... in the original alien, the creature is born of a space jockey which then lays eggs which then go on to infect kane and bring about kanes son, which is a biomechanical alien as we know and love which makes sense as the space jockey (at that point) was a biomechanical creature which going by what weve learned from other alien movies the alien takes (in part) some of the form and traits of its host, but in prometheus, we see at the very beginning that the space jockey/engineers are just big blue human/oids, not biomechanical at all, the bits that looked biomechanical in the trailer was actually a suit, so we have a humanoid wearing two suits to form the sj as we know them from alien which therefore cannot give the alien its biomechanical look, which works for the birthing in prometheus, but then makes consecutive aliens make no sense.

on top of that, the engineer/sj at the beginning drinks the black fluid which disintegrates him, now why doesnt it do that to the two worms that turn into hammerpedes?.

well, thats enough for now, i did actually enjoy watching it and my time at the cinema, and im glad ive seen it, and it does have some plus points, but overall, i feel like this is 1999, george lucas and the phantom menace all over again, if this movie was a stand alone sci fi movie that was totally unrelated to the alien franchise then i would maybe rate it a little higher, but because in my opinion it damages the alien life cycle i give it 4/10... its pretty rubbish.

thanks

rich

So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

f**k No!!! Prometheus is very good

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

wooaaaah budddy
ease up turbo

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

You can probably discount anyone who says that Prometheus is a 'bad' movie... as they have no critical faculties.  ;)

Prometheus isnt really a bad movie, its a badly edited movie, that's the main problem. The first hour is really enjoyable on many levels, but there's clearly a lot missing in the second and particularly the third act, some bad writing in there doesnt help, as well as some bad choices along the way. 

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 01:15:54 AM
crap score which sounds more like it belongs in superman with the repetitive upbeat jingle

Yeah, that repeating melody was annoying as hell! It was ok in the beginning of the film, since it has this uplifting and curious vibe to it, but using the same theme all throughout the movie was just annoying.

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

Despite my reservations ... hell no!

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 02, 2012, 07:15:27 AM
Prometheus isnt really a bad movie, its a badly edited movie, that's the main problem. The first hour is really enjoyable on many levels, but there's clearly a lot missing in the second and particularly the third act, some bad writing in there doesnt help, as well as some bad choices along the way. 

Agree completely.

Quote from: 8thPassenger on Jun 02, 2012, 07:43:41 AM

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 01:15:54 AM
crap score which sounds more like it belongs in superman with the repetitive upbeat jingle

Yeah, that repeating melody was annoying as hell! It was ok in the beginning of the film, since it has this uplifting and curious vibe to it, but using the same theme all throughout the movie was just annoying.

Yeah, that theme was unnecessary for many of the scenes. It completely punctured the atmosphere. Imagine playing the Indiana Jones theme tune during Kane's post-derelict examination  :P

Quote from: 8thPassenger on Jun 02, 2012, 07:43:41 AMYeah, that repeating melody was annoying as hell! It was ok in the beginning of the film, since it has this uplifting and curious vibe to it, but using the same theme all throughout the movie was just annoying.

I agree. It was used perfectly in the opening, but felt out of place when David was in the control room for example. :-\

Saw it last night, not going to go into detail its all been said above,  BUT.

What went wrong? 

The script, the editing?  my word they were poor.

I just feel so so let down with this,  it didnt even come close to expectations.

Lets just hope that the directors cut is 45 minutes longer and fixed this.

Shaw's baby might not have been creatively impressive, but damn I thought it did it's job in being incredibly creepy and unsettling. And the proto-Xeno was awesome, the last shot blew my mind.

Seems like this will go down as one of those movies that I'm pretty alone in embracing. Which is too bad with this film cause a part from a more filmmaking level I feel there is so much interesting to discuss and theorize about when it comes to this film-universe. So many questions, so little answers. I like that!

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

AvP had the heroine team up with a predator and running around with an alien head shield... AvP2s hero was a pizza delivery guy. Allright...?  ;)

The details about Prometheus that bugs me the most right now, are still on an entirely different level than the entirety of those films...

Pretty much every Ridley movie I've seen that has been granted a DC version, has come out a better film. This will most likely be no exception. If some scenes are re-edited as well in a DC, then we are really talking...

About the last creature - to me it looked quite CGI'ed as compared to the snakehugger which looked real. The lighting in the last scene wasn't up to Ridleys standards - they showed too much when imo less would have been more.

Quote from: Darth Vile on Jun 02, 2012, 06:23:17 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 04:18:19 AM
So, anyone in this thread that would place Prometheus down with AvP1&2?

You can probably discount anyone who says that Prometheus is a 'bad' movie... as they have no critical faculties.  ;)

Hmmm, thats why most people are here are slating the movie.... most people coming up with similar things that piss them of. Sounds like a failed movie to me. I mean my review or anyone elses in which they explain what they felt was wrong is obviously just a pile of crap right....

Quote from: Eva on Jun 02, 2012, 09:47:12 AMAbout the last creature - to me it looked quite CGI'ed as compared to the snakehugger which looked real. The lighting in the last scene wasn't up to Ridleys standards - they showed too much when imo less would have been more.

Agree 100%. I would have preferred something like a shadowy image of the creature lifting his head.

I really want to see Harry Plinkett's review of Prometheus

Here's his view of another prequel.... (and man, this guy has HOURS of reviews on his website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxKtZmQgxrI# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxKtZmQgxrI#)

@eva, agreed, but also the last scene (birth) was very low key, it wasn't dramatic at all unlike the kane scene or bambi in alien3 etc. add that to the rubbish protoxeno design which looked totally unconvincing then we have a pretty crappy ending which should have been the highlight of the movie.

and even though avp1 and avp2 are not great, i do think they have some far better and more dramatic death scenes, and a much better score!

thanks

rich

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 01, 2012, 04:35:15 PM
Slept on it, and hashed out my thoughts: http://alienseries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/prometheus-review.html (http://alienseries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/prometheus-review.html)

Fantastic review, Johnny. Love reading your stuff.

just something else to add thats bothering me...

the starmaps..., now the starmaps are found all over the world and are dated thousands of years apart, and also david is seen learning ancient languages in the hope of being able to communicate with the engineers, which in turn implies that the engineers have been visitng earth over the years and overseeing/helping with our development, which then makes their order to destroy us even more perplexing, why go to all that trouble seeding earth, helping development and showing us the way to find them just to decide to destory us and kill the people that do find them....

thanks

rich

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 10:29:52 AM
just something else to add thats bothering me...

the starmaps..., now the starmaps are found all over the world and are dated thousands of years apart, and also david is seen learning ancient languages in the hope of being able to communicate with the engineers, which in turn implies that the engineers have been visitng earth over the years and overseeing/helping with our development, which then makes their order to destroy us even more perplexing, why go to all that trouble seeding earth, helping development and showing us the way to find them just to decide to destory us and kill the people that do find them....

thanks

rich

I think the answer to this, and all the other mystery and inconsistency is....

there is no answer.

I genuinely think the writers threw all this together and didn't give any thought to how it makes sense. Even IF archaeologists had a couple of blobs they thought were a map of a planetary system, or a cluster of stars, then I cannot see any rational explanation for how this could be linked to a real star system, least of all a very faint (from Earth) star as Zeta II Reticuli. How this was done with the Betty and Barney Hill map, upon which the Prometheus star map is based, is - as Click & Clack would say - Booooogus!

And then there is the proper motion of stars over periods of tens of thousands of years. In other words, stars move at very high velocities relative to one another, so constellations can change substantially over time. If you have a 35,000 yr old map, it's useless unless you can correct for the relative motion, and you can only do that if you know which stars they are...

It's drivel basically.  Back me up Deuterium

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 10:29:52 AM
just something else to add thats bothering me...

the starmaps..., now the starmaps are found all over the world and are dated thousands of years apart, and also david is seen learning ancient languages in the hope of being able to communicate with the engineers, which in turn implies that the engineers have been visitng earth over the years and overseeing/helping with our development, which then makes their order to destroy us even more perplexing, why go to all that trouble seeding earth, helping development and showing us the way to find them just to decide to destory us and kill the people that do find them....

I've been trying to connect the dots within what we are shown in the film, combined with what Lindelof have said about the Prometheus angle and tidbits of Alien.

My best guess right now is that all the murals/carvings etc. depict the one and same engineer - only 1. This is our Prometheus. The 'god' who granted us knowledge we were never meant to aquire in the first place. Supplying us with the building blocks that became the basis of our rapid emergence as a civilization in our own right, eventually becoming 'engineers' ourselves with the ability to experiment with and create life.

So who was the sacrifice engineer? He could simply just have been an engineer carrying out his mission, planting DNA building blocks on Earth. Gigers original lifecycle mural depicted them as embracing death as a natural consequence of creating new life. This is imo what's essentially happening at the waterfall sequence. It is an idea that is hinted at several times in Prometheus, death as a precusor for life, children killing their parents etc.

Regarding Prometheus, if my idea above holds any merit, I would imagine that he did what he did unknowingly to his own civilization. It's my theory that humankind was never meant to evolve on its own to the degree where we would become selfaware about our possibilities and capabilities, feeding our ambitions further. I think we were simply planted to fill a stage in a larger lifecycle experiment involving other creatures. The engineers clearly worship the xenomorph shape or what it represents.

As to what went down in the temple, why the last engineer is still hanging around at the complex and other things, I'm still collating on those...  ;)

@eva.

but the problem is, if he was the only engineer here, and sacrificed himself to create life without his race knowing, then how did any humans get knowledge of them and the star system to draw the maps etc?... the maps imply that the engineers must have been visiting and possibly helping our development at least over a few thousand years. or at least one visitation which resulted in the knowledge spreading round the world (which makes less sense).

thanks

rich

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 11:35:19 AM
@eva.

but the problem is, if he was the only engineer here, and sacrificed himself to create life without his race knowing, then how did any humans get knowledge of them and the star system to draw the maps etc?... the maps imply that the engineers must have been visiting and possibly helping our development at least over a few thousand years. or at least one visitation which resulted in the knowledge spreading round the world (which makes less sense).

That's not what I wrote. I made a clear distinction between the sacrifice engineer and Prometheus  :)

Prometheus would have arrived at a late stage, when humans were somewhat emerging and starting to get a basic grasp of technology in the form of tools and such. The Scotland painting is 35.000 years old and might have been made shortly after his first encounter and interaction with humans. He would have returned at several occasions, revealing himself to different civilizations through the ages and the depictions of him interacting with humans have survived.

It's left for us to wonder what his motivations could have been. Selfserving or did he have benign intentions on our behalf?

Quote from: Eva on Jun 02, 2012, 11:45:10 AM

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 11:35:19 AM
@eva.

but the problem is, if he was the only engineer here, and sacrificed himself to create life without his race knowing, then how did any humans get knowledge of them and the star system to draw the maps etc?... the maps imply that the engineers must have been visiting and possibly helping our development at least over a few thousand years. or at least one visitation which resulted in the knowledge spreading round the world (which makes less sense).

That's not what I wrote. I made a clear distinction between the sacrifice engineer and Prometheus  :)

Prometheus would have arrived at a late stage, when humans were somewhat emerging and starting to get a basic grasp of technology in the form of tools and such. The Scotland painting is 35.000 years old and might have been made shortly after his first encounter and interaction with humans. He would have returned at several occasions, revealing himself to different civilizations through the ages and the depictions of him interacting with humans have survived.

It's left for us to wonder what his motivations could have been. Selfserving or did he have benign intentions on our behalf?

yes, sorry for the confusion, i didnt mean you wrote that, i was a little distracted when writing that and didnt word it properly.

i like your theory, it works, but i really dont think ridley/lindeloff have even thought about it properly, it just seems like they just put it in hoping nobody would notice or question it too much.. hopefully they will take note and make a working explanation in a sequel.

personally i think david and shaw (and possibly the whole crew) are meant to be prometheus, david for stealing and messing with the black stuff, shaw for taking them there (the pregnancy being related to the eagle pecking prometheus liver).

but i dont know, all our theories may be wrong, maybe lindeloff will come out with an explanation as he eventually did with his lost ending lol

thanks

rich

Do any of you remember if this exact shot is in the film?

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi46.tinypic.com%2F28wky05.jpg&hash=021dd1ffe6d9c0935cda09ed46a959def48845ff)

I know it seems like an odd question but to me this image is so well composed and atmospheric.  It's really one of my favourite shots.  I'm assuming it's a capture from the film and I really hope it's not one of the shots that got cut.

[close]

Quote from: Vickers on Jun 02, 2012, 12:19:13 PM
Do any of you remember if this exact shot is in the film?

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi46.tinypic.com%2F28wky05.jpg&hash=021dd1ffe6d9c0935cda09ed46a959def48845ff)

I know it seems like an odd question but to me this image is so well composed and atmospheric.  It's really one of my favourite shots.  I'm assuming it's a capture from the film and I really hope it's not one of the shots that got cut.

[close]

hmm, that scene is definitely in the film, but i think from another angle, i dont think that exact shot is, but i could be wrong.

thanks

rich

Sorry Vickers I can't recall about that exact shot - maybe others can...?  :-\

No problem Rich  ;)

PS: I doubt very much that Ridley, Lindelof and Spaihts 'haven't given it any thought', which is a notion that should not be confused with 'not having any definitive answers' to offer.

Alien demonstrated that mysteries can have a surviving charm of their own, perhaps even more so than any answer could ever hope to achieve. Personally I think that we - the audience - have changed since 1979. Quite a lot of people just don't have the patience, desire or inclination to struggle with mysteries in their movies/tv-series etc. anymore. They want answers spoonfeed to them before the lights turn on again. God forbid you would would actually have to think about what you've just watched...  ;)

I definitely didn't mind the lack of answers in regard to what the Engineers are, what their complete relationship to the humans is, or what exactly the black goo is - but I would have liked some coherence with the life-cycle of the creatures (hammerpede seems almost useless) and some deft characterisation for the protagonists. Those problems feel massive but the biggest problem was the complete lack of dramatic impact or tension. Again, editing. Very shoddy work, there.

agreed, its not the l;ack of answers thats the problem, its more the fact of things not making sense and confusing and messing up established canon in the same way the phantom menace did in 1999.

i like mysteries, i like things being left to wonder about, but only if they make sense.

thanks

rich

It's a mess of a film it really is. The script is just terrible, the story is incoherent, the dialogue is worthy of the Stars Wars prequels and there is absolutely no character development whatsoever. The film's only saving grace is it's production design, the sets are just gorgeous and really highlight the failing of CGI. I just hope this is Scott's last film, the drop in the quality of his output in the last 5 years has been huge.

Yeah, I'd agree with the creatures part. I've given it quite some thought and I can't find a coherent lifecycle logic that works within this film, not alone in context with Alien. The starbeast facehugger is my main gripe ... I can't make it fit anywhere...

Final Post:

The Thing (2011) > Prometheus

Theres no question about it.

Quote from: stroggificated on Jun 02, 2012, 01:52:14 PM
Final Post:

The Thing (2011) > Prometheus

Theres no question about it.

Damn i guess you must REALLY hate Prometheus to rank it below that shitfest of a movie haha

He has a point,  the Thing was better in may many ways.

Im totally gutted about Prometheus,  im never going to get excited about a movie ever again.  Why have film makers got so sloppy and lazy,  just think back to all the late 70's and 80's classic movies, there are so many of them.

Quote from: dave1978 on Jun 02, 2012, 02:15:08 PM
He has a point,  the Thing was better in may many ways.

Im totally gutted about Prometheus,  im never going to get excited about a movie ever again.  Why have film makers got so sloppy and lazy,  just think back to all the late 70's and 80's classic movies, there are so many of them.

i actually agree, the things story was more consistent, was executed better, peoples reactions to things were better and the creatures were dfinitely better than that stupid squid and rubbish xeno.

thanks

rich

Well...i have to see it, but The Thing remake was shit. What a joke.
And till now Prometheus is getting raving reviews in Holland: http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
Not so for The Thing 2011 (even tough it's dutch director): http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576)

Quote from: 343 on Jun 02, 2012, 02:37:42 PM
Well...i have to see it, but The Thing remake was shit. What a joke.
And till now Prometheus is getting raving reviews in Holland: http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
Not so for The Thing 2011 (even tough it's dutch director): http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576)

im not saying the thing prequel is great or better than prometheus, but it is better in some ways that ive pointed out, probably has better character development too!.

i dont think the thing prequel was as bad as the critics say, but it was just a pointless movie and basically a total (but worse) repeat of the original.

thanks

rich

The Thing "prequel" is not better than anything.

A pointless waste of a lot of potential, a decent cast and a talented director (who probably wasn't ready) on a cookie-cutter rehash of the same movie but with far less interesting people, decent screenwriting or half decent FX.  OH, TIME TO SHOW WHERE THE AXE IN THE DOOR GOES!  Tick the boxes!  And teeth?  Really?  The teeth?  Metal?

Quote from: Eva on Jun 02, 2012, 12:48:44 PM
Yeah, I'd agree with the creatures part. I've given it quite some thought and I can't find a coherent lifecycle logic that works within this film, not alone in context with Alien. The starbeast facehugger is my main gripe ... I can't make it fit anywhere...

The best I've come up with is that the black goo is very nasty stuff. If people come in contact with it, they turn into... sigh... zombies, while any other organism seems to evolve into some nasty creature with a desire to penetrate (giggle) people's mouths. I know it's lame, but maybe there's not supposed to be a clear lifecycle to the creatures at all. The black goo just finds a host, one way or another.

Lol no way I'm buying that first post up there^  Absolutely no way in hell.

New Thing was a horrible film, some of the worst dialogue and writing I've ever seen in a movie, in my life.

I even called the 'explain everything by the fire' scene, and they no shit really had one that ham-fistedly shoved every story element into the audiences' face, removing all mystery and making you wonder how the characters could even be sure of it in the first place.

If Prometheus makes me think of the new Thing at all, in any way, I'm coming back here.

And hell is coming with me.

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmetsmerizedonline.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F07%2Ftombstone-2-Copy1.jpg&hash=bafb7f65a9faaa19fe2aca478d1c88131335ba8c)

Quote from: RagingDragon on Jun 02, 2012, 03:23:38 PM
Lol no way I'm buying that first post up there^  Absolutely no way in hell.

New Thing was a horrible film, some of the worst dialogue and writing I've ever seen in a movie, in my life.

I even called the 'explain everything by the fire' scene, and they no shit really had one that ham-fistedly shoved every story element into the audiences' face, removing all mystery and making you wonder how the characters could even be sure of it in the first place.

If Prometheus makes me think of the new Thing at all, in any way, I'm coming back here.

And hell is coming with me.

http://metsmerizedonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/tombstone-2-Copy1.jpg

Classic hahahha

This is why i love this forum haha

Quote from: stroggificated on Jun 02, 2012, 01:52:14 PM
Final Post:

The Thing (2011) > Prometheus

Theres no question about it.

LOL.  Anyone who think or agreed that the shitfest The Thing was good or better than Prometheus should get their review card revoked.  Thanks for making this ridiculous comments because now I know to take your reviews with a tablespoon of salt.

Saw this movie last night in UK. Thought it was great. Tied up both the movie and Alien nicely. Space jockeys  were great. Acting could have been better tho. Expectation needs to be resonable as people will only compare this to Alien just like comparisions to Predator. They are both original and classics. Give the guy a break , im actually interested to see Promethus 2 should it be made! Closed out this movie great.

4/5

Firstly: yes, this film is a massive letdown. It is unquestionably visually stunning (especially in IMAX 3D), the nods to 2001 are very welcome and Michael Fassbender is surely one of the best Brit actors of his generation.

But the writing is beyond awful on pretty much every level. Dialogue is almost universally hammy and often poorly delivered. The actual sequence of events (AKA plot) is frequently nonsensical.

But worst of all (and this very much betrays the LOST background), questions are left unanswered, not in a tantalising and fascinating Alien-ish way (e.g. the Space Jockey itself, which was infinitely more interesting in the one scene we see it in Alien to the many times we see it here) but in a frustrating and unjustified way, either through a misguided attempt to re-evoke the Alien mystique, or just through sheer Lindelof-ish laziness/lack of intellectual rigour. Remember all those analyses of the murals in the ampule room? Our in-depth theories about what they might be? Well I'm none the wiser at the end of the film, not one bit. Why is there effectively a Xeno on the wall of that room? Still got no idea, and the film doesn't begin to answer it.

See, when we were all trying to piece together the chronology, I think in our worst nightmares none of us imagined the answer would be

Spoiler

actually everyone just gets screwed up in different ways with no real coherence beyond "that black sh!t is really, really bad". And still less did we imagine that different segments of the plot would involve characters with no real interest or even apparent awareness of any other. While I'm at it: wtf was the point of David trying to impregnate Shaw via Holloway, then not seeming to care at all that she'd had it removed, still less check what had happened to it? But in any event, what did that have to do with waking up the Space Jockey? And why did they all just let Shaw run around doing what she wanted when she clearly wasn't going to want them to complete their plan?

[close]

Also - the much touted secretive ending? I'm not trying to blow my own trumpet here, but I pretty much exactly predicted what it would be (from Lindelof's comments about an "encore") and it was done in the most obvious and uninteresting way possible. Not only that, it doesn't make sense AND it was the one part of the movie that was pretty poorly designed.

What I really can't tally together are the many interviews and promos Scott and Lindelof gave together and the actual film. Remember Lindelof talking about how the "characters in the film are having conversations about Gods" - nope. Well, about one brief mention of Darwin, but there's no coherence or depth, and given the Space Jockey part of the plot seems to just come down to

Spoiler

"they're building a military installation" and that's it, there doesn't even seem to have been a serious attempt to tackle that stuff.

[close]

Finally: was this even well directed? Scott is hit and miss for me anyway; this seems to me to be visually up to his best, but the lack of any real tension, and the good actors who go to waste here, have to be laid at his doorstep, surely. The opening scenes with David and the basketball...nicely done I guess. That was about the only scene, literally, where I felt he was rising above being a highly competent director-for-hire.

Sorry to be so negative, but I'm amazed anyone thinks this is even a decent movie. It isn't - it's poor. 4/10.

Saw the film last night. I thought it was quite BAD. I was left feeling so underwhelmed that I had to jot down some notes regarding it last night to truly vent. I thought the film was  pretty bad for these reasons:

EMPTY CHARACTERS who made unrealistic decisions. There are 3 decent characters in the film, Shaw, David and Janek. The rest have no personality and are utterly weakly written.

NO SENSE OF ATMOSPHERE / PACING
The first 40 minutes of the film or so build quite nicely and steadily and then people become seperated and there is no sense of cohesion within the movie. The music (while not actually being too bad) is just really innappropriate most of the time and eliminates all atmosphere / tension.

NO STORY ARCH
Basically the synopsis of the film is the only story whatsoever. Engineers created humans and now want to destroy them. THE END. That fizzles out within the first hour, the story-telling literally stops and is replaced by a sequence of unfocused creature threats.
People have been complaining about the lack of answers and they are right to do so. In the instance of this film the answers are and should be part of the story. It's a massive lazy cop out. All they really do is use Idris Elba's character to tell the audience what the contents of the ship are for which is simply a reiteration of what Ridley Scott has been saying for years. And they never even show any conclusion to how Janek came up with answers (sure you can fill in the gaps but the execution is terrible).

WEAK DIALOGUE
The characters and dialogue are straight out of the Damon Lindelof school of mediocrity. It makes you wonder how bad they were when Jon Spaights wrote it. Maybe they were better, maybe not.

NO FOCUSED THREAT
Keeping the creature count down and letting one of them evolve would have been stronger.  This would have created more tension.

AWFUL CREATURE CGI AT END

INAPPROPRIATE MUSICAL CHOICES
And by god how did they not see that the creation theme sounded exactly like the opening of Star Trek Next Generation.

WHERE THE F**K WAS THE SPACE JOCKEY FOR THE WHOLE MOVIE??????
God the more I think about this movie the lazier it all seems. So they make the Space Jockey a tall human. I assumed this was so they could interact with the crew in some fashion. The bloody thing doesn't show up until the last 20 minutes and doesn't exactly communicate making the whole humanising completely pointless. They could have had the space jockey creating humans while being the big exoskeleton giant ambiguous creature.

All in all the saddest thing about this movie is that ALL our speculation and theories were a million times more imaginative than this lazy piece of shit. It was just LAZY.

The other sad thing is how far over the hill Ridley Scott is. He should actually just retire and do his painting. I'm not trying to be mean, but he is a poor director and has been for a while now. You can't blame Lindelof entirely or Spaights or Marc Steitenfeld or the casting director or anything. The director wasn't steering the ship. He was arrogant enough to ok a truly mediocre screenplay with a ton of plot holes, bad dialogue, bad pacing, underdeveloped characters and most of all an underdeveloped story. He then persisted on editing the film in such a way that it created ZERO atmosphere/tension or fear.

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 02:42:57 PM

Quote from: 343 on Jun 02, 2012, 02:37:42 PM
Well...i have to see it, but The Thing remake was shit. What a joke.
And till now Prometheus is getting raving reviews in Holland: http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
Not so for The Thing 2011 (even tough it's dutch director): http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576)

im not saying the thing prequel is great or better than prometheus, but it is better in some ways that ive pointed out, probably has better character development too!.

i dont think the thing prequel was as bad as the critics say, but it was just a pointless movie and basically a total (but worse) repeat of the original.

thanks

rich

There is no damn way The Thing prequel is better then Prometheus.

The Thing prequel has alot of problems, it was not as good as the original.

The list of problems.

1. The Thing reveales it's self too quickly and never hides.
2. The story was very rushed. 
3. Boring Cardboard Characters.
4. Kate Lloyd was just made for the sake of being a Ripley clone with no character development.
5. More of a reboot because of all the major retcons.
6. Had way too many characters and killed them off very fast.
7. It rehashed some parts from the 1982 movie.
8. The crew of people was not very norwegian.
9.. It was more of an action movie then paranoia horror movie.
10. This did a poor job with the paranoia and distrust.


The prequel will never live up to the John Carpenter's The Thing.

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 06:25:01 PM

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 02:42:57 PM

Quote from: 343 on Jun 02, 2012, 02:37:42 PM
Well...i have to see it, but The Thing remake was shit. What a joke.
And till now Prometheus is getting raving reviews in Holland: http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
Not so for The Thing 2011 (even tough it's dutch director): http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576)

im not saying the thing prequel is great or better than prometheus, but it is better in some ways that ive pointed out, probably has better character development too!.

i dont think the thing prequel was as bad as the critics say, but it was just a pointless movie and basically a total (but worse) repeat of the original.

thanks

rich

There is no damn way The Thing prequel is better then Prometheus.

The Thing prequel has alot of problems, it was not as good as the original.

The list of problems.

1. The Thing reveales it's self too quickly and never hides.
2. The story was very rushed. 
3. Boring Cardboard Characters.
4. Kate Lloyd was just made for the sake of being a Ripley clone with no character development.
5. More of a reboot because of all the major retcons.
6. Had way too many characters and killed them off very fast.
7. It rehashed some parts from the 1982 movie.
8. The crew of people was not very norwegian.
9.. It was more of an action movie then paranoia horror movie.
10. This did a poor job with the paranoia and distrust.


The prequel will never live up to the John Carpenter's The Thing.

did you actually read my post that you just quoted where i said the words "im not saying the thing prequel is great or better than prometheus".............  did you also not read the part where i said the words (but worse) repeat of the original"....

thanks

rich

Sorry I forgot to read that, I promise not to rush and post.

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 06:25:01 PM

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 02:42:57 PM

Quote from: 343 on Jun 02, 2012, 02:37:42 PM
Well...i have to see it, but The Thing remake was shit. What a joke.
And till now Prometheus is getting raving reviews in Holland: http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/79820)
Not so for The Thing 2011 (even tough it's dutch director): http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576 (http://www.moviemeter.nl/film/70576)

im not saying the thing prequel is great or better than prometheus, but it is better in some ways that ive pointed out, probably has better character development too!.

i dont think the thing prequel was as bad as the critics say, but it was just a pointless movie and basically a total (but worse) repeat of the original.

thanks

rich

You must be kidding !!!
The Thing prequel was a pointless and totally laughable abomination
Prometheus was deeply flawed and a major disappointment but at least the 1st half of it was very good

I can't think of a single good thing to say about the stinking pile of faeces that was The Thing Prequel


There is no damn way The Thing prequel is better then Prometheus.

The Thing prequel has alot of problems, it was not as good as the original.

The list of problems.

1. The Thing reveales it's self too quickly and never hides.
2. The story was very rushed. 
3. Boring Cardboard Characters.
4. Kate Lloyd was just made for the sake of being a Ripley clone with no character development.
5. More of a reboot because of all the major retcons.
6. Had way too many characters and killed them off very fast.
7. It rehashed some parts from the 1982 movie.
8. The crew of people was not very norwegian.
9.. It was more of an action movie then paranoia horror movie.
10. This did a poor job with the paranoia and distrust.


The prequel will never live up to the John Carpenter's The Thing.

Quote from: red_otter on Jun 02, 2012, 05:42:14 PM
Firstly: yes, this film is a massive letdown. It is unquestionably visually stunning (especially in IMAX 3D), the nods to 2001 are very welcome and Michael Fassbender is surely one of the best Brit actors of his generation.

But the writing is beyond awful on pretty much every level. Dialogue is almost universally hammy and often poorly delivered. The actual sequence of events (AKA plot) is frequently nonsensical.

But worst of all (and this very much betrays the LOST background), questions are left unanswered, not in a tantalising and fascinating Alien-ish way (e.g. the Space Jockey itself, which was infinitely more interesting in the one scene we see it in Alien to the many times we see it here) but in a frustrating and unjustified way, either through a misguided attempt to re-evoke the Alien mystique, or just through sheer Lindelof-ish laziness/lack of intellectual rigour. Remember all those analyses of the murals in the ampule room? Our in-depth theories about what they might be? Well I'm none the wiser at the end of the film, not one bit. Why is there effectively a Xeno on the wall of that room? Still got no idea, and the film doesn't begin to answer it.

See, when we were all trying to piece together the chronology, I think in our worst nightmares none of us imagined the answer would be

Spoiler

actually everyone just gets screwed up in different ways with no real coherence beyond "that black sh!t is really, really bad". And still less did we imagine that different segments of the plot would involve characters with no real interest or even apparent awareness of any other. While I'm at it: wtf was the point of David trying to impregnate Shaw via Holloway, then not seeming to care at all that she'd had it removed, still less check what had happened to it? But in any event, what did that have to do with waking up the Space Jockey? And why did they all just let Shaw run around doing what she wanted when she clearly wasn't going to want them to complete their plan?

[close]

Also - the much touted secretive ending? I'm not trying to blow my own trumpet here, but I pretty much exactly predicted what it would be (from Lindelof's comments about an "encore") and it was done in the most obvious and uninteresting way possible. Not only that, it doesn't make sense AND it was the one part of the movie that was pretty poorly designed.

What I really can't tally together are the many interviews and promos Scott and Lindelof gave together and the actual film. Remember Lindelof talking about how the "characters in the film are having conversations about Gods" - nope. Well, about one brief mention of Darwin, but there's no coherence or depth, and given the Space Jockey part of the plot seems to just come down to

Spoiler

"they're building a military installation" and that's it, there doesn't even seem to have been a serious attempt to tackle that stuff.

[close]

Finally: was this even well directed? Scott is hit and miss for me anyway; this seems to me to be visually up to his best, but the lack of any real tension, and the good actors who go to waste here, have to be laid at his doorstep, surely. The opening scenes with David and the basketball...nicely done I guess. That was about the only scene, literally, where I felt he was rising above being a highly competent director-for-hire.

Sorry to be so negative, but I'm amazed anyone thinks this is even a decent movie. It isn't - it's poor. 4/10.

Fassbender is Irish. I totally agree with all your points otherwise. Including your score. It's a poor movie.

I've notice fans were expecting too much out of Prometheus and Predators, whats the problem with reviving the ALien and Predator movies?.

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 07:29:03 PM
I've notice fans were expecting too much out of Prometheus and Predators, whats the problem with reviving the ALien and Predator movies?.

They revived both in AVP  :P

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 07:29:03 PM
I've notice fans were expecting too much out of Prometheus and Predators, whats the problem with reviving the ALien and Predator movies?.

nothing wrong with reviving them, i enjoyed predators for the most part, except for them taking edwin, it seemed a bit stupid as surely the preds would have had to sit cloaked in hospitals to find out that hes a dangerous murderer which seems to be pretty silly since were told in previous movies that theyre drawn to wars and battles to hunt dangerous people.

i would be happy for them to keep making the movies as long as the story is good, coherent and the creature designs are good.

thanks

rich

Quote from: Le Celticant on Jun 02, 2012, 07:34:46 PM

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 07:29:03 PM
I've notice fans were expecting too much out of Prometheus and Predators, whats the problem with reviving the ALien and Predator movies?.

They revived both in AVP  :P

I'm excluding AVP I'm only talking about the solo Alien and Predator movies.

Quote from: tmjhur on Jun 02, 2012, 07:19:24 PM
Fassbender is Irish.

Well, Ireland is in Britain  :P ... though I don't identify as British myself.

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 02, 2012, 07:38:08 PM

Quote from: tmjhur on Jun 02, 2012, 07:19:24 PM
Fassbender is Irish.

Well, Ireland is in Britain  :P ... though I don't identify as British myself.

only northern ireland is britain lol, not republic.

thanks

rich

Quote from: RICH-ENGLAND on Jun 02, 2012, 07:43:56 PM
only northern ireland is britain lol, not republic.

I know. Didn't know that the Fass was from the Republic  though (born in Germany). Ohh, Wiki  8)

Quote from: mastermoon on Jun 02, 2012, 07:29:03 PM
I've notice fans were expecting too much out of Prometheus and Predators, whats the problem with reviving the ALien and Predator movies?.

What do you mean exactly? There's absolutely nothing wrong with reviving the Alien films per se; if this had been a good film I'd've been delighted, unfortunately it just wasn't up to snuff. I actually think even Alien Resurrection blows this out of the water; in fact the opening credits sequence of Alien Resurrection alone shows a directorial vision well ahead of anything in Prometheus.

That's probably the biggest surprise of the movie, for me. I thought the writing might be duff; but I didn't expect the directing to be so lacking in vision.

Oh, and edit: hadn't realised the Fass was Irish, sorry. I knew he was born in Germany but always thought of him as a Brit for some reason. My God he's good though. Sooo good. Easily as effective as Holm in Alien, he alone deserved a much better movie.

I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

Ive had afew days to think about Prometheus and here is what i now think.
.
.
.
.

LOADS OF SPOILERS SO DO NOT READ ON IF YOU AINT SEEN THE FILM.
.
.
.
.

Noomi Rapace:
At first i was thinking Ridley just wanted to put another female as the main lead because it worked so well with Alien.  Noomi plays it as her own without trying to be another Ripley and it works very well. But i do think that Fassbender stole the show.

Michael Fassbender:
He was my favorite actor in this film and possibly now one of my favorite actor from the whole Alien films. I like how in Alien Ash is just a Robot that is taking orders. But David in Prometheus is playing a robot who seems to be questioning his own existence just like how Shaw is with God and the jockey race. For me Prometheus is just worth watching for Fassbender alone.

Charlize Theron:
She was awsome, it was a shame her plot in the movie was a wasted opportunity. Every minute she did get screen time she rocked. I love that bit when she's in the corridor when David bumps in to her, she was very menacing.  You know when Ripley was trying to run things by the book and all her crew members were thinking she was a bitch or at least she comes across that way in the first half of Alien? Well Vickers is that bitch x 2 and stays that way till the end.

Idris Elba:
I liked him, he was like a more chilled out Apone with less wisecracks but had a very positive vibe to him.

Guy Pearce:
Love the actor he done a good Peter Wayland. However i felt that his makeup to make him look old looked a little to rubbery in the shot were he briefs the crew as an hollergram. But when we see him later in the film his makeup does then look more realistic. Also i felt that the was wasted opportunity because he only had small screen time and when we do get to see him later in the film it feels like another rushed sub plot. If they kept him away from the screen after the briefing, then it could of been more of a mystery of who David was talking to when he has his yellow cyber punk (that looks f**king awsome) helmet on. Obviously Vickers confronts David in the hallway on who is he talking to? It should of been left to the audience to guess who it was and then maybe bring back Peter Wayland in a sequel. But over all Mr Pearce done a great job.

Logan Marshall Green:
I liked him but he was just there for Noomi Rapace to get the ball moving with that thing in her belly plot. In away it is like how John Hurt was cast to play Kane, like Kanes role was just to get the Alien on to the ship. well this is the same for Logans character, to get the Alien thing inside Shaw. Hurts acting in Alien made his role one of the most rememberable in all the Alien films... Logan just ends up another medicore victim. This was not Logan's fault, more to do with script writing.

Charlie Holloway
Monkey man i like to call him... Well when i seen him in the trailer i was not sure if i would like or hate this guy. But i am glad to say i liked him when he was human. I will talk more about him later.

Rafe Spall
Just monkey mans side kick. I will talk more about him later since his screen time was short.
Benedict Wong
I wish he had more screen time he had a good presence about him, nothing bad to say.

Kate Dickie:
Her accent was annoying.
The Rest were just cannon fodder or i cant remember well.

The Creatures:
The Engineer(s)
No doubt the best looking creature in Prometheus. When i seen him in the trailer i was in 2 minds if i would like him or not. But after seeing him in Prometheus he was no doubt the best design i was left wanting to see more of the Jockey race. The suit looks good as well it is safe to say Ridley got away with makiing the Jockey humanoid because the Engineer was the biggest gamble for this  movie but it paid off well.

The Black sticky stuff from vails
Just think X-Files Black oil and you got the idea. Would of liked to see David do more testing on this stuff so we get to know more about it.

The Snake/worm thing that attacks Rafe Spall.
This snake thing looked pretty cool it was defo giger looking, it was a shame you only see it once in the film.  But it was also used for one of the one most dumbest parts of Prometheus.

Ok the reason i hated this part of the film:

When the Team first explore the Cave/Pyramid thing, David trips the holographic simulation were we see some Jockeys get killed and running away from something. Well thats all good but then Hollaway gets freaked out and says hes going back to the Prometheus Ship is anyone coming? So Rafe Spall (Millburn) joins him. The other team end up making there way back to the Prometheus and notice that both Hollaway and Millburn are missing and still inside the Cave/Pyramid thing. Next thing a big storm comes and the captain of the Prometheus radio's them and says, look lads you will have to sit tight and wait the storm out. So Holloway and Millburn are now exploring the place and end up coming across them Snake/Worm things..... (This is were it turns from Alien to f**king AVP type of scenario) Holloway and Millburn were both shitting  themselves not long ago, but now Millburn starts to act like f**king Steve Irwin around this strange creature before it attacks them... Now think about this? it is like one of us walking in to some unknown jungle and seeing something strange like a f**king freaky looking Snake and then going up to it and trying to pat it or make it do tricks, it would not be a natural thing to do. What should of happened is that Millburn and Hollaway notice them creatures and keep well away from them. Then maybe when they are resting the thing f**king attacks them.
Logan Marshall Green after infection:
Well we only get to see him change a little before he forces Vickers to flame him. He was only written in to the script to pass on his seed to Shaw so we get that pregnancy plot.

Shaws fetus
That part of the film was great but the fetus thing just looked like a sea squid nothing horrifying, more on lines with what we see in Alien Res (when you sea them take the Queen out of Ripley) it just looks undeveloped for obvious reasons cos of the plot.

Fully Grown fetus Squid thing that attacks the Engineer.
This was by fair the weakest looking creature in Prometheus... if they somehow made this thing look scary and kept it more in touch with Gigers alien design we could of had a great final act. For me this is were prometheus falls flat it was such a wasted opportunity. Man i think the Newborn from Res would of made a better Shaw offspring then this thing. You know in that making of Alien in the quadrilogy boxset documentary, and someone talk about some other Director would handle the facehugger scene in Alien? And he says that he would just buy a liver from the market and slap it in the actors face... Well this scene is a giant version of this... :( how sad and also it was over as quick as that final battle with the jockey started. Talking about the 4 Alien flick i think now the Newborn idea feels more plausible after watching Shaws monstrosity and i say this in a serious tone because it is like the Alien DNA will always find away to exist and come to life even if it looks dumb as f**k.

Jockey Xeno / Proto Alien
I was glad that Ridley give us this because this is for the Alien Fans, but this was yet another wasted opportunity. The design itself was ok, i did like how it had that thin anorexic look and i even liked the shape of its head. Only thing i wish its face was more on pair with Kanes Son.

Holloway Monkey Zombie dude:
I liked Holloway when he was human, but i see no point in having in him Prometheus after he gets infected. It just felt like another sub plot that never really worked. However the part were he is waiting outside the Prometheus and his body is all twisted looked freaky. Just think of the Alien crab walk that was cut from Alien and you will know what i mean. Then when he finally got inside he was soon killed off. His little fight with the canon fooder of prometheus was great, it was just a shame we could not get to see him act more Alien and see him change a little more in to something even more horrid. Another wasted opportunity but at the same time a sub plot that never needed to be there.

Things that Bugged Me.

Vickers should of been killed by the Proto Alien or at the end of the film you see vickers stuck on the planet on her own and then you see Proto Jockey Alien rise from behind her, then credits. I did like Vickers death but it should of been used on someone else. Like why the f**k have 3 people commit suicide by crashing the Prometheus in to the Jockey ship? You should have had only the Captain do that, and the others try and make a break for it as well. but saying that maybe the other crew were needed to pilot Prometheus? well they should of least had one wanting to escape with Vickers then have him suffer Vickers crushing fate and just leave 2 of them to pilot the ship... But personally i would of liked to of seen only the captain do the suicide run and that way we would of had afew more fodder for the Jockey or Proto/Alien.

The music:
Music felt wrong, it was defo on the other end of the spectrum then what the score from Alien was. However dont get me wrong, the music itself was good but it just felt it should of been in a differnt film. I did hear some music/sounds from Alien in Prometheus but it was very short lived. Also i felt the score(s) were sometime over used in parts of the film that would of been more tense if the was no music at all. (watch Alien and Aliens and even JC The Thing and you will know what i mean.)

Not much sounds inside the Prometheus Ship. Like you know in Alien you can hear the ship making humming noises, like it has its own personality and the ship seems to be Alive well i cant remember hearing anything like this inside the Prometheus. However this could be due to the Nostromo being old.

More engineer action would of been nice and a better climax of Proto/Jockey Alien.

That dam fully Grown fetus Squid thing.
----------------
NOW TO THE GOOD STUFF.
It looks dam amazing everything from the Prometheus to the Jocky ship and that big head room was all Alien on roids.

Most of the Actors are great, i would say about 85% of them played there roles pretty well. Michael Fassbender was my favorite.

The engineer(s) looked awsome, i was thinking that a humanoid jockey dude would look pretty silly but i was shocked that he looked pretty dam good. I hope we see him in Gear Box Aliens game cos he needs to be explored even more. I hope we get another 2 Prometheus cos i want to see even more off this race but if not i can see him being apart of some shit AVP3 flix.

The ancient astronaut theory i dig. I like how Shaw still holds on to her cross and says something on the lines of who was the Jockey's creator. (well something like that)

When Shaw removes that squid looking thing from her belly it was great and tense.

I was glad we did get to see a form of xeno at the end of the film, even if it was just a 10second money shot for the fans.

David DAVID

And david roaming the ship at the start why everyone was sleeping.

Overall:
Prometheus was never going to be perfect because the thing that worked for Alien was its mystery and horror. Every one of us on this forum pre Prometheus had our own ideas and theories of what the Jocky was, and why was the Alien created? Prometheus gives us a little taste of this, some of it works well and some of it leaves more questions than answers. However for me i was at least 75% satisfied just a shame afew little things stops it from being on par with Alien and Aliens but Prometheus holds up well and it is now my 3rd favorite Alien flick. 7.5/10 cant wait for it on blu-ray.

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

Spoiler

Only shot of him piloting is the one, pretty much, from the trailer. He suits up and everything activates. End.

[close]

Kimo, you're mixing up Holloway with Fifield  :P

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

fassbender is truely brilliant, and probably the best thing about prometheus, and yes we see the engineer, hes the one getting in the jockey suit in the trailer, and tbh, the suit looks a bit crap plastic cgi, and the size doesnt look right, doesnt look like he could reach some of the control sticks which are in the same place as in alien.

thanks

rich

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 02, 2012, 08:44:19 PM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

Spoiler

Only shot of him piloting is the one, pretty much, from the trailer. He suits up and everything activates. End.

[close]

I really wanted to see how they operated the spaceship.  Bah  :(

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

Spoiler

What Valaquen said. I'd add, I'm so disappointed with the eventual revelation of the Space Jockeys in Prometheus in any event that I don't think any of it looks that cool. The original Alien SJ is infinitely more mysterious, weird, noble, beautiful...I could go on. One of many aspects of the film that lacks any poetry or sense of what made the original so memorable.

[close]

Quote from: Valaquen on Jun 02, 2012, 08:44:19 PM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 02, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
I'm so glad to hear Fassbender is as memorable as Ash.

Other question,

Spoiler

Do we see the Engineer piloting the ship when he attempts to leave the moon?  Is he sitting in his chair or the console seat?  How cool does it look?

[close]

Spoiler

Only shot of him piloting is the one, pretty much, from the trailer. He suits up and everything activates. End.

[close]

Kimo, you're mixing up Holloway with Fifield  :P

Dam lol too many names to remember... I glad its not Alien 3 i am reviewing then pmsl.

"I want to scare the shit out of you."
- Ridley Scott

The quote which launched a thousand fandom orgasms... The question is, did he succeed?

'Prometheus' is what happens when you throw 'The Thing' and 'Event Horizon' in a blender, decide it needs some 'Splice' and then, for no apparent reason, decide to throw away most of what could have made it an iconic piece of horror for the modern age. There are no two ways about this: The film had all the ingredients required to make it a potential new cinematic masterpiece, but began to start shedding them along the creative road as it journeyed along to completion.

Don't get me wrong, it's still an effective piece of science-fiction. Something which manages to feel both real and epic. If you're despairing at Hollywood's continuing attempts to try and splice together the DNA of Michael Bay and Roland Emmerich, then a trip to see this will be refreshing. Visually-speaking, it's something of an oasis in a graveyard of pretenders to the throne, marred so much by their own reliance on fast-paced jump-cuts and giant robots, that they seem to forget the art of story-crafting completely.

Unfortunately, what made 'Alien' - and its initial sequel - so successful... That very sense of realism... Is in some way ruined by the polished nature of, well, something trying to out-epic itself. There is nothing - I repeat, nothing - which comes close to how awe-inspiring and disturbing that famous scene of the original Space Jockey is. There are attempts and the sets are beautiful, but even though the film makes a point of exploring these cavernous extraterrestrial labyrinths to a far greater extent, there's nothing which really fills you with the same sense of wonder. By attempting to be overly clever and over-engineer (no pun intended) itself, 'Prometheus' seems to lose sight of what made its source material so compelling.

Again, that isn't to say it's a failure. It's not. 'Alien' films, most especially, are often rated by how much entertainment and escapist value they have. In this, 'Prometheus' mostly succeeds. But like that old elephantine monstrosity rooted to its telescopic contraption, the shadow of a certain blockbuster from the 1970s looms heavily over what we are seeing. Every time you see characters step foot into the Space Jockey's realm, you want it to out-do the original. You really do. Or at least equal it. You want that same combined sense of wonderment and dread to loom out of the shadows and remind you why millions of us rewatch the originals, to this very day. You want the film to somehow prove it's earned the right to its vast budget and the involvement of Ridley Scott and HR Giger.

Because, admit it... The teenager in you pored over Giger's 'Book Of Alien' like it was porn. You hoarded those comics, damn it. You've seen the masterpieces so many times, discussed them with so many like-minded fans, that it would be impossible for giants like these to get it wrong. We've got technology and visual techniques available to us now, which simply didn't exist back then. Hell, you're so aware of what made those classics as great as they are, that you can tell when something else is copying those very same elements!

So, where does it succeed? Where does it fail?

First things first: You're going to see this because it's a monster movie. You want to know how masterfully the creature designs are handled. And this is probably the film's greatest weakness...

Why? Because gone are any hint of biomechanical design aesthetics. Literally... Utterly, completely gone. Without spoiling much, the Space Jockeys have this represented upon their uniforms, by their very natures. But the entity you're actually paying to see on screen exhibits none of that. And also just as absent - sorely so - is any hint of psychosexuality.

That's right. Ridley Scott's had literally decades to think about the direction he'd take a film like this and we get relatively generic monsters. The one time when there is an element of the story which delves into what could have been familiar xenomorphic territory (something which happens to Shaw, the film's protagonist), what we end up getting isn't terribly fresh or new, at all. It's something which could have easily featured in 'Splice' (and, in some respects, actually was). All that fan speculation you've been hit over the head with for months? Brooding subtext on the threatening nature of perversion and obscenity? Horrific scenes which would make Lambert's death seem almost tame? Nowhere to be seen here.

As a matter of fact, Lambert's death deserves revisiting here, since some will inevitably try to brush off criticisms, as being to do with concern for the age rating. My answer to that is that Lambert's death, even today, could easily have earned a relatively low rating (it is, in fact, a perfect example of what can be psychologically achieved by the use of pure suggestion, editing and audio). Someone like Ridley Scott should be all the more aware of this, yet, sadly, we don't see much evidence of it here. If you're hoping for something along those lines, you're going to be disappointed. Characters speak of death, but what was born from Kane exhibited more disturbing menace.

The actual physical designs, themselves, are a mixed bag. The initial things we see are handled fairly well and have an air of menace, but most of this is because one of the characters acts ridiculously stupid. If you thought Kane's response to an opening "leathery object" was lacking in common sense, you're going to be face-palming here. It is, however, effectively brutal. But brutality is more what you expect to see in a 'Predator' film. When you go and see an 'Alien' movie, you want to glimpse something nightmarishly horrific at least being hinted at. Something which you could believe might scare a character to death if they were confronted by it (as per Lambert's original death as it was filmed before editing).

Oddly, most of the actual carnage and body count is carried out by relatively mundane, humanoid antagonists. Those of us worried by, say, the rumours about 'space mutants' and what the Space Jockey is meant to truly be? We were right to be so. This is what bites me so much about this production; it can be so majestic with set design and beautiful scenic visuals, yet show hardly any attention when it comes to the crafting of a scene which would have been much better spent on creating something genuinely disturbing and unpleasant.

None of which might have necessarily been a big problem, but Ridley Scott painted himself into a corner by being widely quoted as believing it was somehow impossible to make the original Alien seem threatening on screen, using the fact that one of them had featured as a cameo on a Disney ride as proof of this. Many of us in the fandom have argued, by contrast, that the original Alien hasn't truly been portrayed effectively since the eighties and that, in light of this, all the more effort should be spent on 'getting it right'. The very logic for why so many wanted the likes of Scott and Giger to be involved in a sequel (or, in this case, a prequel, albeit an indirect one).

So, what have we got in place of Giger's iconic stroke of psychosexual genius? Well, as I say, a rather mixed bag. Design-wise, something which has, shall we say, spent a while gestating... See what I did there? Once it began to get active, it showed hints of a promising would-be successor. Something which might end up as this film's chestburster, gradually maturing into a true extraterrestrial force of agony and death. What ends up being revealed later on? Eh... A huge disappointment (visually impressive, but compared to the original Alien, even the facehugger shall still be more memorable). Why did Ridley Scott bother pouring on the criticism on a design which would have been superior to what he ended up authorising? That's not sarcasm, I'd honestly like to know.

Spoiler

Many call it a 'squid', but it's more of a psychotic starfish on crack.

[close]

And yes, there is a hint of the original Alien... Unfortunately, my reaction to it was akin to the morbid fascination associated with the wreckage of a car crash:

(A) Ohhh... Is that what I think it is?
(B) Huhhh... I can see the limbs and stuff, but... Oh, there's a bit more of it. Wait, it's doing something more! Ah, I knew that couldn't be all there was...
(C) Wait, did this just turn into a Roger Corman film?

It literally is something I suspect most fans would have rather been left on the cutting room floor. Or even better, had the budget diverted to something more meaningful.

Fans of 'Alien 3' will, however, recognise something of a homeage...

Spoiler

In my honest opinion, it looked like someone tried to copy the Bambi-burster with one of the parodies from 'Beetlejuice' and took away the tail.

All those weird Dark Horse comic interpretations of the infamous Jockey-burster? You will be wishing this thing was like those. It's worse than the Predalien, is how bad it is.

[close]

So, with that over, how does the story stack up?

Whether you see this in 2D or 3D, you can't escape the feeling that it's a bit like 'Alien Versus Predator' without the Predators. If and when Anderson watches this, he's going to raise an eyebrow. The next time Scott makes one of his suggestive comments about the AVP films, you can feel free to wonder if he ever actually watched them, because there are key elements which are very similar to the first one.

Spoiler

Ironically, including the final scene.

[close]

But that's OK, because, much like how 'The Matrix' can get away with directly copying scenes from certain Japanese animation movies before it, 'Prometheus' can get away with copying Anderson's because it does the whole archeologist-gets-hired-by-Weyland-to-go-exploring-ancient-pyramid-of-doom-thingy well (although, quite why a character refers to it as a pyramid when it's more of a mound, I was confused by). You can, however, be excused for sometimes wondering if Shaw should be getting called 'Lex'...

Some of the film cleverly plays around with the very expectations it sets up. I liked this. For example, rather than everyone haplessly marching to an almost certain death, a few of them do pipe up with how ridiculous it is to do so and even take action. However, that doesn't stop others from doing really stupid things, like taking off helmets and taking in whole lungfuls of who-knows-what, just because the atmosphere sensors think it's probably OK to breathe. Do these scientists not think about things like unknown contaminants? Or, worse still, have the training necessary for excavating ancient digs, yet don't even consider their own bodies might be exposing and infecting the environment with something?

It's stuff like this which makes you side with the character of Vickers. Yes, it's almost mandatory for an 'Alien' film to have at least one character who's there as a 'suit' and needs to exude an air of let's-do-evil-shenanigans-because-I'm-rich-and-you're-expendable. Here, Vickers supplies that function and even mixes in a little of Nostromo-era Ripley's pragmatism. You can't help but think she's almost the only sane one around, at times, when even the alleged 'scientists' show zero understanding of basic matters like quarantine. That it's a prequel to a film in which that was already a strong sub-plot, only serves to emphasise this more. She is, however, portrayed very well on screen. In retrospect, the actress doesn't have terribly much material to work with, yet gives a stronger impression for it.

Most other characters are generic. In the case of a few, I can't even remember what ended up happening to them. I would say, though, that most of them have their own little quirks, which helps to make the cast feel like real people. Few of them do the kind of casual bitching about day-to-day drudgery which rounded out the likes of Parker and Brett, which means we don't get much opportunity to empathise with most, but they're serviceable. Nevertheless, I did miss an opportunity to revisit those kinds of social divisions between the pragmatism of the engineering department and those in charge of the ship and mission.

The latter is actually problematic. In both 'Alien' and its sequel, there were obvious chains of command. Here, it's all a bit unclear. Orders are barked, but not necessarily followed and you almost get the impression that nobody on the crew roster, themselves, are even sure of who they should be taking their cues from. This makes it more difficult to believe that they're on a trillion-dollar mission of grand importance, since nobody seems the least bit trained in protocol. Over all, though, this doesn't really detract from the events of what they experience.

And experience, they do... Repeatedly, in fact - and constantly putting themselves in danger seems to become more like a habit than accident. 'Alien' was so plausible because of accidental exposure and the characters reacting how the audience would: Wanting to get the hell away. Disaster struck because they had allowed contamination to come aboard. Here, the crew of the Prometheus are struck by that most inconvenient of measures; a film director gripped by feeling he needs to keep exploring the Space Jockey lair, instead of realising that less can sometimes be more (if the Prometheus had somehow been damaged beyond repair, this would be more understandable). As a result, the characters leave you with the feeling that they have a death wish, because of how often they force themselves to go back to where tragedy clearly lurks. You yearn for the days when poor Lambert refused in tears to follow Ripley's plan of flushing out the ventilation system after Dallas' death. Here, the crew of the Prometheus would have not only done just that, but forget to rig up extra weapons for precaution.

David 8, thankfully, doesn't come close to what was threatened by some quarters of fandom. There's nothing where he shows more hints of more emotional capability than the likes of Ash or Bishop did. Moments of what could be interpreted as resent, but they don't hit you in the face. It's no better/worse than the moments of what could be seen as frustration were demonstrated by Ash. And because of this ambiguity, David 8 doesn't come across as more radically advanced than Ash, which helps the continuity. There are some very nice moments with him, in fact. Also some weird ones, though, where his motivations aren't properly clarified like those for Ash had been. I was worried that his story arc would be about becoming human, but the story doesn't dare to venture along such meaninglessly sentimental lines. So, yes, David 8 fits reasonably well alongside Ash, Bishop and Call. We witness him doing things like watching films, when you would think he'd logically be engineered to simply absorb them for analysis to an internal download, but I can forgive the film-makers for that. Acting-wise, it's a good performance of what it means to be synthetic. The few moments where he's implied as potentially angry about something, though, I could do without - they didn't make much sense for a robot to exhibit.

But what about the mystery? These 'Engineers'? Who are the Space Jockeys? Where did they come from? Why do they do what they do? What is it they're trying to do? How do they perceive us? Why?

This was the film which, everyone involved, director included, claimed would serve to investigate these questions. They were the whole point of it! And this is Ridley Scott! With a budget, no less! You cannot doubt that this will lead to epic philosophical places!

When it comes to story-telling, if you float one mystery, putting up others is perfectly fine, so long as you also provide some answers. We don't actually get much of that here. Only more questions. The Space Jockeys are explored, but you're left none the wiser. And, yes, for those of you in the know, the 'suit thing' is as daft and pointless as it sounded - which is possibly the film's greatest failing, since this was a mystery decades in the making and what most fans wanted Ridley Scott to be involved in answering, if it must be. From that perspective, it feels like an exercise in squandered potential. Then again, this is the same guy who did a director's cut of 'Alien' and didn't fix the notorious problem with Ash's head by adding a simple cut away reaction... Perhaps this should have been interpreted as a warning?

If you're not looking for the 'derelict question' to be solved, however, then it's still an interesting journey to tag along with. The infamous visual of that giant human head, strangely, doesn't get explained, which is reflective of a large proportion of what goes on, really. I attribute this to Ridley Scott's technique of 'the art' always coming first. He has an artistic canvas and paints something memorable with actors and cameras. Whether we end up liking it is neither here nor there. The canvas is what you pay him for. We get his ideas about the Space Jockeys and what they're up to, which don't hold much in the way of surprise if you've read/listened to his views of them over the years. Space Jockeys carry around biological weapons (of, apparently, varying types) and sometimes Stuff Goes Wrong(TM). Much beyond that, you won't find answered here. 'Prometheus' is more like a glimpse into the aftermath of an ancient prison riot, than a historical flashback of monumental proportions (and no, I didn't just give away the story; just a suitable analogy).

Weirdly, the aspect which has, up until now, been the most controversial; ET-influenced human origins, was conspicuously pedestrian. Those adverts where we see Shaw relate the tale of old paintings correlating to a star system? That's literally her entire proof. I felt sure that there was going to be more to it. That something would crop up later, perhaps to do with the company's financial involvement. An intriguing about-face for one of the scientist characters, revealing they knew more than had been let on. Some fragment of ET DNA or a device uncovered at one of the old dig sites. Something. They had to get all that funding, right? There must have been more to it!

But... No. That's why some of the film, as a whole, feels disappointingly painting-by-numbers. I was looking forward to at least this fantastical angle to history being done justice to. Yet, it isn't. The most we get is a short scene involving a waterfall. There was so much potential here and it actually feels inferior to the far more epic historical flashbacks in 'Alien Versus Predator'. I'm not asking for lasers and spaceships, but as someone who's been intrigued by all those old legends of 'star gods from the sky', the practical reality of a visual artist like Ridley Scott doing next to nothing with this, especially when he's been so passionate about it in interviews, is astounding. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of things I could have had Shaw or her partner speak of in dialogue, if budget was the issue. Even 'Predator' did this well, with Anna's reference of "the demons who make trophies of men" and we get nothing in 'Prometheus' approaching how memorable that was.

But with all of this said, it's worth going to see. I mean that. It won't blow your mind, but it's a nice addition to the series. This is, it's true, what damages it: You're going along to see something which should be spectacular and, while good entertainment and even (relatively) effective at what it sets out to do, it's not anything revolutionary. It's not the thing you've been waiting since the 1980s to see and you're honestly left wondering why Ridley Scott chose this project over the true sequel James Cameron was going to write for him to direct. Or why he was so openly critical of Giger's creature design, only to apparently settle for a much inferior product.

Does he "scare the shit" out of us? No. And, really, we should expect that. The guy's evolved since the 1970s, after all. He's had time to be a family guy and hasn't had opportunity to practice the art of film horror. It's the same as the director who gave us 'Jaws' later doing his version of 'War Of The Worlds': Much bigger budget and many years of experience later, but would have benefited enormously from Spielberg having taken the time to helm a couple of creature-feature projects between them.

And that's what we have. It's like a family relative you deeply admire, who used to take you out for the best times on Earth, who recently came back from his trip overseas and decides to take you out somewhere special. You appreciate the ride, love that he's doing it, but... You've kind of grown apart. And it doesn't make those old times spent with that person any less special. It's just that times have moved on and he's better at doing other things.

Or perhaps a more relevant analogy would be like how we wondered what happened to the director of the 'Terminator' films and 'Aliens', after watching 'Titanic' and 'Avatar'... Decent enough films in their own right, but a radical departure of what you would have predicted he'd have done with the subject material, years before.

Would 'Prometheus' have been better if it wasn't a prequel? Very probably. It suffers from labouring under the weight of its predecessors very, very much. The whole point of it is that it's meant to at least rise to similar heights, yet it doesn't. Prettier, yes, but when what made the old things so great was how they got their hands dirty... Pretty isn't what you need. You're comparing Tina Turner to Britney Spears and it doesn't quite mesh when they do a duet.

Is it acted well? Not in all places, but mostly, yes (in many cases, though, you won't remember half the faces as fondly as you will Ferro or even Jones, the cat). Does the story do what it should? Yes and no... It's not what we were promised. Not in the least. But it takes you for a ride and engages you. Does it out-Giger Giger? F**k, no - and never will. But it does its thing and you don't regret paying to see it. You just wish it had been something more... Special.

The real test will come later. Will we be rewatching it as many times as the others? Will we be quoting the lines to friends? Will there be entire parodies based on scenes people remember from it?

Right now, I place it behind 'Alien' and 'Aliens': As something which was meant to come up to their level or even replace them, it fails. As something which was meant to stand alongside them? Yeah... I can buy that.

I give it a 6.5 out of 10. If they'd just made it an original film and done away with any Space Jockey stuff, I'd have rated it higher. But it is entertaining and, while it needed to be more 'Event Horizon' than 'Resident Evil', what we get is by no means poor.

Yet, I'll always be left wondering how things might have turned out with more Giger-esque biomechanoids and a better script...

My expectations were sky high so part of me knew they would be dashed, as many have said lots of plot holes, some dodgy acting, so i thought i would dwell a day or so before i scripted my comments.

I'll keep it short and sweet. The main cast acting was very good,  but the smaller roles was a tad disjointed as if they were reading off cue cards, Visually excellent, as said more questions raised than answers, but really this could be a good thing.

I think Ridley will get everything he expected from the film on the basis that everyone is now talking about it for good or bad reasons, which made me think. What if i had seen this film as it was set out to be a stand alone film from the Alien franchise? What if i had never seen any trailers or knew the premise of the Film, with that thought the film would be mind blowing. My initial dissapointment is ebbing with each day and it wtill be interesting to see what future devlopments arise, As Ridley says a new tangent is going to be set as the old one had been flogged to death. I would give it a 3.5 out 5 at present and will wait and preorder the Blu-ray in hope some more answers handed out for the fans.

The Engineers rock by the way.

My butt is fine thankyou very much.  :laugh:

My alleged 'crying' has nothing to do with the ending scene (which is shit IMO) but has everything to do with the preceding hour and half of dross (again IMO).

If any of you think I wanted to feel this way.... man, I so didn't. I'd love to love this movie. But I find so much of it to be horribly scripted that I can't.

Anyhoo... will go see it again tomorrow and see how I feel after a second viewing.

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 03, 2012, 12:00:24 AM
My butt is fine thankyou very much.  :laugh:

My alleged 'crying' has nothing to do with the ending scene (which is shit IMO) but has everything to do with the preceding hour and half of dross (again IMO).

If any of you think I wanted to feel this way.... man, I so didn't. I'd love to love this movie. But I find so much of it to be horribly scripted that I can't.

Anyhoo... will go see it again tomorrow and see how I feel after a second viewing.

I feel exactly the same, the narrative and script IS lousy.

AvP did it much better - at least it made sense, had better dialogue and didn't make me cringe.

At the midnight showing, so many people were aghast at how awful it was - so it's not just a few of us on here.

Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 12:32:17 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 03, 2012, 12:00:24 AM
My butt is fine thankyou very much.  :laugh:

My alleged 'crying' has nothing to do with the ending scene (which is shit IMO) but has everything to do with the preceding hour and half of dross (again IMO).

If any of you think I wanted to feel this way.... man, I so didn't. I'd love to love this movie. But I find so much of it to be horribly scripted that I can't.

Anyhoo... will go see it again tomorrow and see how I feel after a second viewing.

I feel exactly the same, the narrative and script IS lousy.

AvP did it much better - at least it made sense, had better dialogue and didn't make me cringe.

At the midnight showing, so many people were aghast at how awful it was - so it's not just a few of us on here.

Sebastian de Rosa: When I was a kid growing up in Italy, you know what they call a moon that big?
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: Hm?
Sebastian de Rosa: La luna del cacciatore.
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: La luna del cacciatore.
Sebastian de Rosa: Brava!
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: What's that?
Sebastian de Rosa: Hunter's moon.
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: Hunter's moon.
[pause. They start laughing]

Oh that scene made me cringe alright.

Quote from: Psykorgasm on Jun 03, 2012, 12:38:30 AM

Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 12:32:17 AM

Quote from: ucdom on Jun 03, 2012, 12:00:24 AM
My butt is fine thankyou very much.  :laugh:

My alleged 'crying' has nothing to do with the ending scene (which is shit IMO) but has everything to do with the preceding hour and half of dross (again IMO).

If any of you think I wanted to feel this way.... man, I so didn't. I'd love to love this movie. But I find so much of it to be horribly scripted that I can't.

Anyhoo... will go see it again tomorrow and see how I feel after a second viewing.

I feel exactly the same, the narrative and script IS lousy.

AvP did it much better - at least it made sense, had better dialogue and didn't make me cringe.

At the midnight showing, so many people were aghast at how awful it was - so it's not just a few of us on here.

Sebastian de Rosa: When I was a kid growing up in Italy, you know what they call a moon that big?
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: Hm?
Sebastian de Rosa: La luna del cacciatore.
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: La luna del cacciatore.
Sebastian de Rosa: Brava!
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: What's that?
Sebastian de Rosa: Hunter's moon.
Alexa 'Lex' Woods: Hunter's moon.
[pause. They start laughing]

Oh that scene made me cringe alright.

That scene was fine by me :) 

"Oh look, a MediPod" was just the tip of the iceberg in Prometheus

Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 12:32:17 AM
AvP did it much better - at least it made sense, had better dialogue and didn't make me cringe.

As I wrote in my review, it's strange to think back and see how many elements both films have in common. One of those things which hits you more in retrospect.

Quote from: Xenomorphine on Jun 03, 2012, 12:53:37 AM

Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 12:32:17 AM
AvP did it much better - at least it made sense, had better dialogue and didn't make me cringe.

As I wrote in my review, it's strange to think back and see how many elements both films have in common. One of those things which hits you more in retrospect.

yup, and not only that, but the black oil/goo is almost identical to the stuff out of the x files, and the brave captain crashing the ship into the enemy as a last resort was done in the last two star trek movies.

tahnks

rich

This is a bad film. No matter what connection it has to alien or anything else, it is just bad.  Bad script, bad acting, bad music, bad direction.

Every review I have seen have said it is shit, apart from the visuals, but to be honest, I didn't even like the visuals. When I saw how clean and hd it was in the first pictures I was worried, but I saw  the trailer and it seemed to still capture horror. This film has none of that. It is just awful.

This is a lazy review, but I think such a lazy film only deserves such a review.

Final thoughts/emotions: Anger, disappointment, frustration, regret, depression.

A friend of mine who is a hard core ALIEN fan loved Prometheus.....so interesting the extremes in opinions

Quote from: Xenomorphine on Jun 02, 2012, 10:10:15 PM
"I want to scare the shit out of you."
- Ridley Scott

The quote which launched a thousand fandom orgasms... The question is, did he succeed?

'Prometheus' is what happens when you throw 'The Thing' and 'Event Horizon' in a blender, decide it needs some 'Splice' and then, for no apparent reason, decide to throw away most of what could have made it an iconic piece of horror for the modern age. There are no two ways about this: The film had all the ingredients required to make it a potential new cinematic masterpiece, but began to start shedding them along the creative road as it journeyed along to completion.

Don't get me wrong, it's still an effective piece of science-fiction. Something which manages to feel both real and epic. If you're despairing at Hollywood's continuing attempts to try and splice together the DNA of Michael Bay and Roland Emmerich, then a trip to see this will be refreshing. Visually-speaking, it's something of an oasis in a graveyard of pretenders to the throne, marred so much by their own reliance on fast-paced jump-cuts and giant robots, that they seem to forget the art of story-crafting completely.

Unfortunately, what made 'Alien' - and its initial sequel - so successful... That very sense of realism... Is in some way ruined by the polished nature of, well, something trying to out-epic itself. There is nothing - I repeat, nothing - which comes close to how awe-inspiring and disturbing that famous scene of the original Space Jockey is. There are attempts and the sets are beautiful, but even though the film makes a point of exploring these cavernous extraterrestrial labyrinths to a far greater extent, there's nothing which really fills you with the same sense of wonder. By attempting to be overly clever and over-engineer (no pun intended) itself, 'Prometheus' seems to lose sight of what made its source material so compelling.

Again, that isn't to say it's a failure. It's not. 'Alien' films, most especially, are often rated by how much entertainment and escapist value they have. In this, 'Prometheus' mostly succeeds. But like that old elephantine monstrosity rooted to its telescopic contraption, the shadow of a certain blockbuster from the 1970s looms heavily over what we are seeing. Every time you see characters step foot into the Space Jockey's realm, you want it to out-do the original. You really do. Or at least equal it. You want that same combined sense of wonderment and dread to loom out of the shadows and remind you why millions of us rewatch the originals, to this very day. You want the film to somehow prove it's earned the right to its vast budget and the involvement of Ridley Scott and HR Giger.

Because, admit it... The teenager in you poured over Giger's 'Book Of Alien' like it was porn. You hoarded those comics, damn it. You've seen the masterpieces so many times, discussed them with so many like-minded fans, that it would be impossible for giants like these to get it wrong. We've got technology and visual techniques available to us now, which simply didn't exist back then. Hell, you're so aware of what made those classics as great as they are, that you can tell when something else is copying those very same elements!

So, where does it succeed? Where does it fail?

First things first: You're going to see this because it's a monster movie. You want to know how masterfully the creature designs are handled. And this is probably the film's greatest weakness...

Why? Because gone are any hint of biomechanical design aesthetics. Literally... Utterly, completely gone. Without spoiling much, the Space Jockeys have this represented upon their uniforms, by their very natures. But the entity you're actually paying to see on screen exhibits none of that. And also just as absent - sorely so - is any hint of psychosexuality.

That's right. Ridley Scott's had literally decades to think about the direction he'd take a film like this and we get relatively generic monsters. The one time when there is an element of the story which delves into what could have been familiar xenomorphic territory (something which happens to Shaw, the film's protagonist), what we end up getting isn't terribly fresh or new, at all. It's something which could have easily featured in 'Splice' (and, in some respects, actually was). All that fan speculation you've been hit over the head with for months? Brooding subtext on the threatening nature of perversion and obscenity? Horrific scenes which would make Lambert's death seem almost tame? Nowhere to be seen here.

As a matter of fact, Lambert's death deserves revisiting here, since some will inevitably try to brush off criticisms, as being to do with concern for the age rating. My answer to that is that Lambert's death, even today, could easily have earned a relatively low rating (it is, in fact, a perfect example of what can be psychologically achieved by the use of pure suggestion, editing and audio). Someone like Ridley Scott should be all the more aware of this, yet, sadly, we don't see much evidence of it here. If you're hoping for something along those lines, you're going to be disappointed. Characters speak of death, but what was born from Kane exhibited more disturbing menace.

The actual physical designs, themselves, are a mixed bag. The initial things we see are handled fairly well and have an air of menace, but most of this is because one of the characters acts ridiculously stupid. If you thought Kane's response to an opening "leathery object" was lacking in common sense, you're going to be face-palming here. It is, however, effectively brutal. But brutality is more what you expect to see in a 'Predator' film. When you go and see an 'Alien' movie, you want to glimpse something nightmarishly horrific at least being hinted at. Something which you could believe might scare a character to death if they were confronted by it (as per Lambert's original death as it was filmed before editing).

Oddly, most of the actual carnage and body count is carried out by relatively mundane, humanoid antagonists. Those of us worried by, say, the rumours about 'space mutants' and what the Space Jockey is meant to truly be? We were right to be so. This is what bites me so much about this production; it can be so majestic with set design and beautiful scenic visuals, yet show hardly any attention when it comes to the crafting of a scene which would have been much better spent on creating something genuinely disturbing and unpleasant.

None of which might have necessarily have been a big problem, but Ridley Scott painted himself into a corner by being widely quoted as believing it was somehow impossible to make the original Alien seem threatening on screen, using the fact that one of them had featured as a cameo on a Disney ride as proof of this. Many of us in the fandom have argued, by contrast, that the original Alien hasn't truly been portrayed effectively since the eighties and that, in light of this, all the more effort should be spent on 'getting it right'. The very logic for why so many wanted the likes of Scott and Giger to be involved in a sequel (or, in this case, a prequel, albeit an indirect one).

So, what have we got in place of Giger's iconic stroke of psychosexual genius? Well, as I say, a rather mixed bag. Design-wise, something which has, shall we say, spent a while gestating... See what I did there? Once it began to get active, it showed hints of a promising would-be successor. Something which might end up as this film's chestburster, gradually maturing into a true extraterrestrial force of agony and death. What ends up being revealed later on? Eh... A huge disappointment (visually impressive, but compared to the original Alien, even the facehugger shall still be more memorable). Why did Ridley Scott bother pouring on the criticism on a design which would have been superior to what he ended up authorising? That's not sarcasm, I'd honestly like to know.

Spoiler

Many call it a 'squid', but it's more of a psychotic starfish on crack.

[close]

And yes, there is a hint of the original Alien... Unfortunately, my reaction to it was akin to the morbid fascination associated with the wreckage of a car crash:

(A) Ohhh... Is that what I think it is?
(B) Huhhh... I can see the limbs and stuff, but... Oh, there's a bit more of it. Wait, it's doing something more! Ah, I knew that couldn't be all there was...
(C) Wait, did this just turn into a Roger Corman film?

It literally is something I suspect most fans would have rather been left on the cutting room floor. Or even better, had the budget diverted to something more meaningful.

Fans of 'Alien 3' will, however, recognise something of a homeage...

Spoiler

In my honest opinion, it looked like someone tried to copy the Bambi-burster with one of the parodies from 'Beetlejuice' and took away the tail.

All those weird Dark Horse comic interpretations of the infamous Jockey-burster? You will be wishing this thing was like those. It's worse than the Predalien, is how bad it is.

[close]

So, with that over, how does the story stack up?

Whether you see this in 2D or 3D, you can't escape the feeling that it's a bit like 'Alien Versus Predator' without the Predators. If and when Anderson watches this, he's going to raise an eyebrow. The next time Scott makes one of his suggestive comments about the AVP films, you can feel free to wonder if he ever actually watched them, because there are key elements which are very similar to the first one.

Spoiler

Ironically, including the final scene.

[close]

But that's OK, because, much like how 'The Matrix' can get away with directly copying scenes from certain Japanese animation movies before it, 'Prometheus' can get away with copying Anderson's because it does the whole archeologist-gets-hired-by-Weyland-to-go-exploring-ancient-pyramid-of-doom-thingy well (although, quite why a character refers to it as a pyramid when it's more of a mound, I was confused by). You can, however, be excused for sometimes wondering if Shaw should be getting called 'Lex'...

Some of the film cleverly plays around with the very expectations it sets up. I liked this. For example, rather than everyone haplessly marching to an almost certain death, a few of them do pipe up with how ridiculous it is to do so and even take action. However, that doesn't stop others from doing really stupid things, like taking off helmets and taking in whole lungfuls of who-knows-what, just because the atmosphere sensors think it's probably OK to breathe. Do these scientists not think about things like unknown contaminants? Or, worse still, have the training necessary for excavating ancient digs, yet don't even consider their own bodies might be exposing and infecting the environment with something?

It's stuff like this which makes you side with the character of Vickers. Yes, it's almost mandatory for an 'Alien' film to have at least one character who's there as a 'suit' and needs to exude an air of let's-do-evil-shenanigans-because-I'm-rich-and-you're-expendable. Here, Vickers supplies that function and even mixes in a little of Nostromo-era Ripley's pragmatism. You can't help but think she's almost the only sane one around, at times, when even the alleged 'scientists' show zero understanding of basic matters like quarantine. That it's a prequel to a film in which that was already a strong sub-plot, only serves to emphasise this more. She is, however, portrayed very well on screen. In retrospect, the actress doesn't have terribly much material to work with, yet gives a stronger impression for it.

Most other characters are generic. In the case of a few, I can't even remember what ended up happening to them. I would say, though, that most of them have their own little quirks, which helps to make the cast feel like real people. Few of them do the kind of casual bitching about day-to-day drudgery which rounded out the likes of Parker and Brett, which means we don't get much opportunity to empathise with most, but they're serviceable. Nevertheless, I did miss an opportunity to revisit those kinds of social divisions between the pragmatism of the engineering department and those in charge of the ship and mission.

The latter is actually problematic. In both 'Alien' and its sequel, there were obvious chains of command. Here, it's all a bit unclear. Orders are barked, but not necessarily followed and you almost get the impression that nobody on the crew roster, themselves, are even sure of who they should be taking their cues from. This makes it more difficult to believe that they're on a trillion-dollar mission of grand importance, since nobody seems the least bit trained in protocol. Over all, though, this doesn't really detract from the events of what they experience.

And experience, they do... Repeatedly, in fact - and constantly putting themselves in danger seems to become more like a habit than accident. 'Alien' was so plausible because of accidental exposure and the characters reacting how the audience would: Wanting to get the hell away. Disaster struck because they had allowed contamination to come aboard. Here, the crew of the Prometheus are struck by that most inconvenient of measures; a film director gripped by feeling he needs to keep exploring the Space Jockey lair, instead of realising that less can sometimes be more (if the Prometheus had somehow been damaged beyond repair, this would be more understandable). As a result, the characters leave you with the feeling that they have a death wish, because of how often they force themselves to go back to where tragedy clearly lurks. You yearn for the days when poor Lambert refused in tears to follow Ripley's plan of flushing out the ventilation system after Dallas' death. Here, the crew of the Prometheus would have not only done just that, but forget to rig up extra weapons for precaution.

David 8, thankfully, doesn't come close to what was threatened by some quarters of fandom. There's nothing where he shows more hints of more emotional capability than the likes of Ash or Bishop did. Moments of what could be interpreted as resent, but they don't hit you in the face. It's no better/worse than the moments of what could be seen as frustration were demonstrated by Ash. And because of this ambiguity, David 8 doesn't come across as more radically advanced than Ash, which helps the continuity. There are some very nice moments with him, in fact. Also some weird ones, though, where his motivations aren't properly clarified like those for Ash had been. I was worried that his story arc would be about becoming human, but the story doesn't dare to venture along such meaninglessly sentimental lines. So, yes, David 8 fits reasonably well alongside Ash, Bishop and Call. We witness him doing things like watching films, when you would think he'd logically be engineered to simply absorb them for analysis to an internal download, but I can forgive the film-makers for that. Acting-wise, it's a good performance of what it means to be synthetic. The few moments where he's implied as potentially angry about something, though, I could do without - they didn't make much sense for a robot to exhibit.

But what about the mystery? These 'Engineers'? Who are the Space Jockeys? Where did they come from? Why do they do what they do? What is it they're trying to do? How do they perceive us? Why?

This was the film which , everyone involved, director included, claimed would serve to investigate these questions. They were the whole point of it! And this is Ridley Scott! With a budget, no less! You cannot doubt that this will lead to epic philosophical places!

When it comes to story-telling, if you float one mystery, putting up others is perfectly fine, so long as you also provide some answers. We don't actually get much of that here. Only more questions. The Space Jockeys are explored, but you're left none the wiser. And, yes, for those of you in the know, the 'suit thing' is as daft and pointless as it sounded - which is possibly the film's greatest failing, since this was a mystery decades in the making and what most fans wanted Ridley Scott to be involved in answering, if it must be. From that perspective, it feels like an exercise in squandered potential. Then again, this is the same guy who did a director's cut of 'Alien' and didn't fix the notorious problem with Ash's head by adding a simple cut away reaction... Perhaps this should have been interpreted as a warning?

If you're not looking for the 'derelict question' to be solved, however, then it's still an interesting journey to tag along with. The infamous visual of that giant human head, strangely, doesn't get explained, which is reflective of a large proportion of what goes on, really. I attribute this to Ridley Scott's technique of 'the art' always coming first. He has an artistic canvas and paints something memorable with actors and cameras. Whether we end up liking it is neither here nor there. The canvas is what you pay him for. We get his ideas about the Space Jockeys and what they're up to, which don't hold much in the way of surprise if you've read/listened to his views of them over the years. Space Jockey's carry around biological weapons (of, apparently, varying types) and sometimes Stuff Goes Wrong(TM). Much beyond that, you won't find answered here. 'Prometheus' is more like a glimpse into the aftermath of an ancient prison riot, than a historical flashback of monumental proportions (and no, I didn't just give away the story; just a suitable analogy).

Weirdly, the aspect which has, up until now, been the most controversial; ET-influenced human origins, was conspicuously pedestrian. Those adverts where we see Shaw relate the tale of old paintings correlating to a star system? That's literally her entire proof. I felt sure that there was going to be more to it. That something would crop up later, perhaps to do with the company's financial involvement. An intriguing about-face for one of the scientist characters, revealing they knew more than had been let on. Some fragment of ET DNA or a device uncovered at one of the old dig sites. Something. They had to get all that funding, right? There must have been more to it!

But... No. That's why some of the film, as a whole, feels disappointingly painting-by-numbers. I was looking forward to at least this fantastical angle to history being done justice to. Yet, it isn't. The most we get is a short scene involving a waterfall. There was so much potential here and it actually feels inferior to the far more epic historical flashbacks in 'Alien Versus Predator'. I'm not asking for lasers and spaceships, but as someone who's been intrigued by all those old legends of 'star gods from the sky', the practical reality of a visual artist like Ridley Scott doing next to nothing with this, especially when he's been so passionate about it in interviews, is astounding. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of things I could have had Shaw or her partner speak of in dialogue, if budget was the issue. Even 'Predator' did this well, with Anna's reference of "the demons who make trophies of men" and we get nothing in 'Prometheus' approaching how memorable that was.

But with all of this said, it's worth going to see. I mean that. It won't blow your mind, but it's a nice addition to the series. This is, it's true, what damages it: You're going along to see something which should be spectacular and, while good entertainment and even (relatively) effective at what it sets out to do, it's not anything revolutionary. It's not the thing you've been waiting since the 1980s to see and you're honestly left wondering why Ridley Scott chose this project over the true sequel James Cameron was going to write for him to direct. Or why he was so openly critical of Giger's creature design, only to apparently settle for a much inferior product.

Does he "scare the shit" out of us? No. And, really, we should expect that. The guy's evolved since the 1970s, after all. He's had time to be a family guy and hasn't had opportunity to practice the art of film horror. It's the same as the director who gave us 'Jaws' later doing his version of 'War Of The Worlds': Much bigger budget and many years of experience later, but would have benefited enormously from Spielberg having taken the time to helm a couple of creature-feature projects between them.

And that's what we have. It's like a family relative you deeply admire, who used to take you out for the best times on Earth, who recently came back from his trip overseas and deciding to take you out somewhere special. You appreciate the ride, love that he's doing it, but... You've kind of grown apart. And it doesn't make those old times spent with that person any less special. It's just that times have moved on and he's better at doing other things.

Or perhaps a more relevant analogy would be like how we wondered what happened to the director of the 'Terminator' films and 'Aliens', after watching 'Titanic' and 'Avatar'... Decent enough films in their own right, but a radical departure of what you would have predicted he'd have done with the subject material, years before.

Would 'Prometheus' have been better if it wasn't a prequel? Very probably. It suffers from labouring under the weight of its predecessors very, very much. The whole point of it is that it's meant to at least rise to similar heights, yet it doesn't. Prettier, yes, but when what made the old things so great was how they got their hands dirty... Pretty isn't what you need. You're comparing Tina Turner to Britney Spears and it doesn't quite mesh when they do a duet.

Is it acted well? Not in all places, but mostly, yes (in many cases, though, you won't remember half the faces as fondly as you will Ferro or even Jones, the cat). Does the story do what it should? Yes and no... It's not what we were promised. Not in the least. But it takes you for a ride and engages you. Does it out-Giger Giger? f**k, no - and never will. But it does its thing and you don't regret paying to see it. You just wish it had been something more... Special.

The real test will come later. Will we be rewatching it as many times as the others? Will we be quoting the lines to friends? Will there be entire parodies based on scenes people remember from it?

Right now, I place it behind 'Alien' and 'Aliens': As something which was meant to come up to their level or even replace them, it fails. As something which was meant to stand alongside them? Yeah... I can buy that.

I give it a 6.5 out of 10. If they'd just made it an original film and done away with any Space Jockey stuff, I'd have rated it higher. But it is entertaining and, while it needed to be more 'Event Horizon' than 'Resident Evil', what we get is by no means poor.

Yet, I'll always be left wondering how things might have turned out with more Giger-esque biomechanoids and a better script...

Great review here, I agreed with almost everything you said and even gave Prometheus the same score.  But I have to say, Michael fassbender was perfect as David in my opnion. He is one of the few things the film makers did get right, he typified everything about David that was mysterious, inquisitive, humorous maybe even dangerous, his performance felt real as any of the robots from the Alien films, indeed I thought Fassbender pretty much held this film up on his own a lot of the time.

Quote from: MR EL1M1NATOR on Jun 03, 2012, 01:05:48 AM

This is a lazy review, but I think such a lazy film only deserves such a review.

Final thoughts/emotions: Anger, disappointment, frustration, regret, depression.

Agreed, and I feel your pain  :-\

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 03, 2012, 01:16:37 AM
Great review here, I agreed with almost everything you said and even gave Prometheus the same score.  But I have to say, Michael fassbender was perfect as David in my opnion. He is one of the few things the film makers did get right, he typified everything about David that was mysterious, inquisitive, humorous maybe even dangerous, his performance felt real as any of the robots from the Alien films.

Good to know my long-winded analysis pleased someone. :)

As I say, yes, he sits a lot more comfortably alongside Ash and co, than I had feared he might. I'm not sure Fassbender deserves the BEST ACTOR EVER praise heaped on him by some for this, but he played the role very well. I just would've liked his character's motivations to have been clarified better.

Spoiler

And the "every child wants their parents dead" lines was... Bizarre. Where did he learn that from? Or did Ridley hint he's been watching late-night screenings of 'Gladiator'? :)

[close]

That is a very nice review Xenomorphine, a breath of fresh air after reading reviews likie

"It sucks! How could they do that? This movie is garbage, stupid Lindelof! What was Scott thinking?" or "This is a masterpiece, this is what Alien sequel shouldve always been like, Scott is a god! This is the only true companion to Alien!"

Quote from: Xenomorphine on Jun 03, 2012, 01:22:21 AM

Quote from: RoaryUK on Jun 03, 2012, 01:16:37 AM
Great review here, I agreed with almost everything you said and even gave Prometheus the same score.  But I have to say, Michael fassbender was perfect as David in my opnion. He is one of the few things the film makers did get right, he typified everything about David that was mysterious, inquisitive, humorous maybe even dangerous, his performance felt real as any of the robots from the Alien films.

Good to know my long-winded analysis pleased someone. :)

As I say, yes, he sits a lot more comfortably alongside Ash and co, than I had feared he might. I'm not sure Fassbender deserves the BEST ACTOR EVER praise heaped on him by some for this, but he played the role very well. I just would've liked his character's motivations to have been clarified better.

Spoiler

And the "every child wants their parents dead" lines was... Bizarre. Where did he learn that from? Or did Ridley hint he's been watching late-night screenings of 'Gladiator'? :)

[close]

Wasn't that the line David quoted to Shaw in the Medpod room?  Not sure what he really meant either, just assumed it had something to do with him watching her dreams in hypersleep that I missed.  lol

i suppose i should copy-paste the thing i posted in the other thread by mistake.

"the movie was definitely flawed. no denying to that. characters that were barely present and not even properly introduced play bigger parts than some which occupy a bigger deal of run time, there are things happening without a reason, decisions made without a reason, what was the point of hiding the presence of Wayland and his mercs? what was the point of the snake creature? what was the point of Fifields mutation? all of these things point somewhere, but the movie utterly fails to make them matter, and to cover it it keeps trowing more and more stuff until it can almost overwhelm you and make you forget just what the f**k is going on. visuals were nice but the quick editing and soundtrack made it impossible to immerse in them. there wasn't a single pan, time lapse, walking, flying or exploring sequence to build tension. luckily Ridley still managed without, but it didn't feel like it was comfortable with showing you more.

and i get the feel like every single one of those things had a strong and solid reason idea behind them, but they just forgot to implement it, and instead of ditching it entirely, they kept it because they were afraid they wouldn't get a second shot at it.

i pray that when the movie is released there's enough footage ready to be added in to make this mess make sense, because when it does, i can actually start loving it. so far i feel like i watched a movie that hasn't finished filming yet. this needs like two whole extra hours.

still nice. i missed the oppressive dark exteriors of LV-426 but movies like red planet proved that empty alien deserts can be frightening too. i wish there was more to that planet though. it seemed unbelievably opportune for them to land and end up so close to these temples right away. wonder if there were more Gigerian, creepy structures around the planet that they just didn't see. that's another point, we never knew the real nature of this place. even in alien we knew the Derelict crashed there, it was very solidly established. word-dropping "military base" here was as close as we got, and i got the impression that it wasn't accurate to the situation at all."

Quote from: MR EL1M1NATOR on Jun 03, 2012, 01:05:48 AM
This is a bad film. No matter what connection it has to alien or anything else, it is just bad.  Bad script, bad acting, bad music, bad direction.

Every review I have seen have said it is shit, apart from the visuals, but to be honest, I didn't even like the visuals. When I saw how clean and hd it was in the first pictures I was worried, but I saw  the trailer and it seemed to still capture horror. This film has none of that. It is just awful.

This is a lazy review, but I think such a lazy film only deserves such a review.

Final thoughts/emotions: Anger, disappointment, frustration, regret, depression.

I completely disagree with everything your saying here, but what stands out most is the bad acting and bad direction. did you even watch the film? Fassbender and rapace are very good with fassbender turning in a scene stealing effort. and bad direction this is the best looking film that ever been produced, if you have any that look better please tell us. i dont know wheter your joking or just dont have a clue what your on about.

I haven't posted here in ages, but with Prometheus out, I thought I'd come back and check out some reviews by some knowledgeable fans.

I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

Hey Blain, what did you think of Prometheus?

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:18:21 AM
I haven't posted here in ages, but with Prometheus out, I thought I'd come back and check out some reviews by some knowledgeable fans.

I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

Its seem IQs dropped sharply since you left

Can someone please tell me if the film is too dark as in lighting/colour grading? I just want to make sure I see this movie and it looks visually impressive like what we saw in the trailers.

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 03, 2012, 03:21:15 AM
Hey Blain, what did you think of Prometheus?

I thought it was excellent. 8.5/10. Not as good as Aliens or Alien, but if anyone went in expecting it to be, they set themselves up for disappointment, because let's face it, we've grown to love those films to a point where anything new will initially pale by comparison.

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 03, 2012, 03:24:44 AM
Its seem IQs dropped sharply since you left

People are entitled to their opinion, but at some point it crosses the line from reasonable opinion into tasteless idiocy.

Quote from: PHANTOM on Jun 03, 2012, 03:30:23 AM
Can someone please tell me if the film is too dark as in lighting/colour grading? I just want to make sure I see this movie and it looks visually impressive like what we saw in the trailers.

No, it was lit fine.

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:18:21 AM
I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

It's perfectly valid to compare two films when the similarities being referenced are obvious.

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:18:21 AM
I haven't posted here in ages, but with Prometheus out, I thought I'd come back and check out some reviews by some knowledgeable fans.

I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

I have a first class degree, an MA and work in the film industry - not a stupid person.
For me, AVP was a much better movie. Not sure why somebody's opinion gets you all riled up like that. Not very mature, a bit like this turkey of a film.

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:31:59 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 03, 2012, 03:21:15 AM
Hey Blain, what did you think of Prometheus?

I thought it was excellent. 8.5/10. Not as good as Aliens or Alien, but if anyone went in expecting it to be, they set themselves up for disappointment, because let's face it, we've grown to love those films to a point where anything new will initially pale by comparison.

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 03, 2012, 03:24:44 AM
Its seem IQs dropped sharply since you left

People are entitled to their opinion, but at some point it crosses the line from reasonable opinion into tasteless idiocy.

I think theres a lot of people on here who like to push people and wind them up. trolls basically. its fun to see people sprout shit tho because it obvious they dont have a clue what theyre talking about. opinions are fine as long as theyre backed up by reason not just 'this film sucks the alien looks crap in it'

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Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 03:36:01 AM

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:18:21 AM
I haven't posted here in ages, but with Prometheus out, I thought I'd come back and check out some reviews by some knowledgeable fans.

I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

I have a first class degree, an MA and work in the film industry - not a stupid person.
For me, AVP was a much better movie. Not sure why somebody's opinion gets you all riled up like that. Not very mature, a bit like this turkey of a film.

Im doing my film degree now where did you do it? and if you are a master degree student you must appreciate prometheus as a piece of art and thus cant compare it to the comic book film avp.

Quote from: Xenomorphine on Jun 03, 2012, 03:35:35 AM
It's perfectly valid to compare two films when the similarities being referenced are obvious.

Valid comparisons are fine. Flat out stating, with no reason, that The Thing or AvP is better is ludicrous. Which has happened once, twice, maybe even three times (I stopped checking after the first) in the last 10 or so pages.

Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 03:36:01 AM
I have a first class degree, an MA and work in the film industry - not a stupid person.
For me, AVP was a much better movie. Not sure why somebody's opinion gets you all riled up like that. Not very mature, a bit like this turkey of a film.

Objectively, there's no reason AvP is better. And subjectively, it's lack of...anything substantially better than the scraps off the table of the films comprising the respective franchises gives me cause to question the mental well being of anyone saying it's quality is above that of Prometheus. Which is not, as I said, better than Alien or Aliens, but (again, as I said) nobody should have expected it to be so. Am I riled up? No. But I thought the eating yourself thing was kind of funny, so I went with it.  ;)

BTW, you weren't here (as far as I know) at the time I left for a little while, so I think a belated welcome is in order. Welcome.

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 03, 2012, 03:38:12 AM

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:31:59 AM

Quote from: JaaayDee on Jun 03, 2012, 03:21:15 AM
Hey Blain, what did you think of Prometheus?

I thought it was excellent. 8.5/10. Not as good as Aliens or Alien, but if anyone went in expecting it to be, they set themselves up for disappointment, because let's face it, we've grown to love those films to a point where anything new will initially pale by comparison.

Quote from: hfeldhaus on Jun 03, 2012, 03:24:44 AM
Its seem IQs dropped sharply since you left

People are entitled to their opinion, but at some point it crosses the line from reasonable opinion into tasteless idiocy.

I think theres a lot of people on here who like to push people and wind them up. trolls basically. its fun to see people sprout shit tho because it obvious they dont have a clue what theyre talking about. opinions are fine as long as theyre backed up by reason not just 'this film sucks the alien looks crap in it'

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Quote from: Necronomicon12UK on Jun 03, 2012, 03:36:01 AM

Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:18:21 AM
I haven't posted here in ages, but with Prometheus out, I thought I'd come back and check out some reviews by some knowledgeable fans.

I have one thing to say: Anyone comparing it to AvP and The Thing 2011, and even calling it worse, can eat themselves. Seriously. Just eat yourself until you implode like a sun collapsing in on itself. Because the only thing I can imagine sitting behind your monitors is a black hole of stupid, sucking in any intelligence and destroying it.

I have a first class degree, an MA and work in the film industry - not a stupid person.
For me, AVP was a much better movie. Not sure why somebody's opinion gets you all riled up like that. Not very mature, a bit like this turkey of a film.

Im doing my film degree now where you doing it? and if you are a master degree student you must appreciate prometheus as a piece of art and thus cant compare it to the comic book film avp.

Depends how you define a piece of art.. as a visual art installation it would be fine. But it is a narrative film - and as such it fails on all the levels I expect a great movie to deliver. Plot, characterisation, narrative cohesion, not treating the audience like idiots etc..

I'm glad that you like Prometheus, but for me and many others it is a big bad raspberry to film fans.. let alone ALIEN film fans.

Yes bits of it are nice to look at, but a good script is essential for a great film.. and this script is abysmal.

By the way, this is my opinion and NOT an attack on you ;o)

( I studied in London)

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Quote from: BLAIN on Jun 03, 2012, 03:48:08 AM

BTW, you weren't here (as far as I know) at the time I left for a little while, so I think a belated welcome is in order. Welcome.

Thanks for the welcome.

I'm genuinely pleased for the people who liked the movie, but I do find it odd that people on forums attack those that are just expressing their disappointment.