 Movie
Reviews
with Evelyn Gough
Serenity (M)
The NSW government trials a replacement for the Casino to Murwillumbah rail line with limited success.
Written & directed by Joss Whedon
Despite being a huge fan of Buffy and Angel, I never got hooked on Joss Whedon's last series, the sci-fi Western Firefly.
If, like me, you weren't prepared to sit up until 1.30am you can find out what you were missing now that Whedon has condensed the 15-episode TV series into the two-hour, action-packed sci-fi blockbuster Serenity. And, like me, I think you'll be a convert.
It's 500 years in the future and many have left the overpopulated Earth to set up colonies on other planets. Captain Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds (Nathan Fillion of Buffy fame) fought on the losing side of an intergalactic war and now he and his loyal crew aboard his spaceship Serenity spend their time dodging the coalition who dominate the universe while attempting to eke out a meagre living robbing banks on outer, less civilised planets.
But they really get the attention of the Alliance when they offer assistance to doctor Simon Tam (Sean Maher) and his telepathic sister River (Summer Glau) who are on the run. The Alliance want the information that is locked in River's head - unlike the monstrous Reavers, who just want her head, her brain and any other body organs they can snack on. Life is anything but serene on board Serenity.
Joss Whedon doesn't have a cult following for nothing. The guy has a vivid imagination, a great sense of humour and the ability to come up with exciting, original storylines. Want proof? Check out Serenity. You don't have to be a fan of the TV series or a sci-fi nut to enjoy this edge-of-the-seat actioner.
And if you already are a fan you'll appreciate all the added mega special effects that weren't possible on the small screen.
And girls, take my word for it, Captain Mal is a total spunk! Move over Han Solo!
Serenity also stars Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin and Adam Baldwin.
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