By Eddie King
Staff Writer
The outcome of this film may seem predetermined, but with a plethora of unexpected twists, “Predestination” is not what it originally seems.
Brilliant and unexpected, “Predestination” is a thrilling film that gives new life to the old concept of time travel. This thriller’s use of paradoxes takes the sci-fi genre to an engaging level of complexity, despite some confusion along the way.
The film begins with a bartender (Ethan Hawke) who meets John (Sarah Snook) at his bar. John begins to tell his life story to the bartender and how one man ruined everything he had. The bartender then reveals that he is an agent who time travels to different dimensions to prevent crimes before they happen. He then offers John a chance to go back in time to kill the man who ruined his life without anyone ever finding out.
However, as they travel to accomplish their quest, more of John’s complicated past is revealed, and the bartender’s obsession with finding the Fizzle Bomber (a killer who has eluded him through time) creates disruptive ripples in time that noticeably alter history.
One major highlight of the film is the engaging performances by the actors, notably Snook. Snook stands out from the rest due to her captivating performance in the difficult role of starring as both a male and female character, depending on which time line the characters are in. Her diversity as an actress is shown throughout her impressive ability to credibly portray both a masculine and feminine character in different stages of the same film.
Additionally, the action proves to be engaging due to the unexpected twists the narrative takes. Clues about the film’s underlying paradoxes are slowly revealed, making it necessary to pay close attention to avoid missing major details. The unpredictable nature of the plot is engrossing, and every scene adds a layer that advances the story.
Although the plot is engaging, it seems too clever at times due to the complexity of the paradoxes presented. There are so many layers in the story that it becomes difficult to follow at times.
Overall, “Predestination” is an exceptional revival of the time-travel thriller, captivating with complex mystery, visual splendor and well-developed characters. Though too complex at times, the film ties itself together in the end.
“Predestination” is rated R and is now playing in select theaters in Los Angeles.
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