'Aeon' fluxes in mediocrity
Joe Nguyen, staff writer
Dec. 5, 2005

Synopsis
In the futuristic sci-fi thriller set 400 years in the future, Charlize Theron stars as Aeon Flux, the top underground operative at war with the totalitarian regime governing what appears to be a perfect society. But is this perfect life hiding a perfect lie? Aeon is on the front lines of a rebellion that will reveal a world of secrets.

Review
Film studios often wait until the end of the year to release movies that are expected to contend at the Academy Awards. “Aeon Flux,” which features Oscar-winner Charlize Theron, is watchable and fairly enjoyable but is far from ever being confused with any of these films.

Charlize Theron in "Aeon Flux"

Director Karyn Kusama does a reasonable job taking a surreal and confusing animated series and transforming it into a visually-stimulating and comprehensible film. Despite its subpar acting and drawn-out beginning, “Aeon Flux” eventually pulls in the audience with mindless action.

The acting was just atrocious in this film. It was as if the actors took a page out of the “Star Wars” guide to acting. There was little enthusiasm, and a lack of reaction to what their onscreen partners were saying. Amelia Warner especially stood out in her limited role. There was just no chemistry between her and Theron even though they played sisters. And as talented as Theron is, she does not fit the lead role. It was difficult to see her as Aeon and not Charlize.

The first 30 minutes of the film was awful. Although it does a decent job setting up the background, the convoluted story-telling and slow tempo made it difficult to stay focused on the film.

The special effects and action are what draws in the audience. The fight sequences are visually stunning, but were far and few in between the predictable storyline. There’s an attempt to disguise which characters are good and which ones are bad, but it becomes obvious about halfway in.

“Aeon Flux” is not a bad movie despite the lack of praises in this review, but it’s just not one that is worth paying the full-admission price to watch. Wait for this one to hit the rental shelves.

Joe gives "Aeon Flux":

Joe Nguyen is a staff writer for asiaXpress.com. You can reach Joe at joe@asiaxpress.com.

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