28 from Glasgow, love films - so you'll probably only ever see me write about them lol
28 from Glasgow, love films - so you'll probably only ever see me write about them lol
Member since:08.03.2004
Reviews:116
Members who trust:9
Scientists have been citing Global Warming as a threat to humanity for years now, claiming that the damage we have done to Planet Earth will be our downfall. The Day After Tomorrow takes that threat seriously, and pits Scientist Jack Hall against the weather. When the Polar Ice Capsules start to melt, Jack tries to warn the governments in the Northern Hemisphere that within years humanity will face destruction. Naturally, the powers that be dont believe him. As Jack's son Sam takes off to New York with his classmates for a competition, the weather quickly takes a turn for the worst. Various parts of the Northern world find different weather disasters inflicted upon them. The citizens of a Chinese city are bombarded with giant ice stones raining down on its head, Hollywood is virtually destroyed by cataclysmic twisters, and New York is initially covered over by rising waters that quickly turn to ice and freeze up most of the city. Jack's priority quickly changes as he treks across the frozen lands to a now practically extinct New York in search of his son. But whether he will
get there in time is a different matter.
Roland Emmerick signs on for directorial duties in this highly imaginative disaster film. Emmerick has had varying degree's of success varying from the excrutiating Godzilla to the overlong but effective Independence Day. He brings all the right ingredients to this big budget blockbuster though, abandoning stupiditiy for a sensitive human story that tends to become overshadowed by the visuals.
Emmerick's actors are well up to the job, but I'd doubt very much that he had much to do with their performances. Dennis Quaid gives a by-the-numbers performance thats neither brilliant nor terrible. His relationship with his son is a fraught one, and thats brought to life both by him and Jake Gyllenhaal. Gyllenhaal is also decent, but it has to be said this probably isn't anywhere near as good as his ability. I doubt very much it'll affect his credibility as an actor though. The problem with his character Sam is that he doesn't get to do very much, other than look frightened, run a bit, and stare on in awe occassionally. Emmy Rossum is utterly wooden though, she has all of an expression and a half, and isn't up to the task.
In terms of the type of film, both Gyllenhaal and Quaid battle on admirably under the weight of the tremendous special effects. The special effects are the best thing about this film. The highlight, it has to be said, is the freezing of a helicopter over Britain as the land frosts over. But the early twister scenes are also superb, authentic and exciting.
It has come to light since the release of this film that there are various factual inconsistencies. But most people dont really go see a film in the cinema to assess the merits of the facts. Its an incredible ride from the opening scenes of the cracking ice to the predictable but uplifting finale. The second half of the film suffers slightly after many of the bigger scenes and more exciting thrills are brought out early on in the film. But it still reaches a satisfying conclusion.
Another plus point is that this film discards the usual American heroism in exchange for something more universal. The characters are well written enough that they aren't trying to be heroic beyond the natural instinct to protect themselves and the people they love. Nobody is trying to save the world here, instead happy just to learn that their own loved ones are alive. The film also measures up the effects of this kind of catastrophe the world over and not just in America. There is a humorous reference to a Glasgow football team that I'm sure many Glaswegians will appreciate.
All in all, I found this one to be an entertaining film that might not be entirely factual, but at least it remains entertaining for the most. The fact that it sags in the second half is a minor blip and shouldn't really affect your enjoyment.
I have the single disc edition of this film which comes in a nice cover art that shows the statue of liberty surrounded by the waters rising around it and covering the big apple. There are various simple commentaries covered by director Roland Emmerick, and some of the production crew.
You can also buy a 2 disc set of the film which comes in a similar cover, but with extra features on the bonus disc.
It is amazing from all good retailers including www.play.com, www.hmv.co.uk, and www.amazon.co.uk for as little as £3.96
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Turning pressing environmental issues into the theme of a big summer blockbuster, you cant ... more
say that director Roland Emmerich isnt willing to take his chances. And whileThe Day After Tomorrowdoes ask you to suspend fair chunks of disbelief, it is both a...
Postage & Packaging: £1.21 Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days...
From the Director of 'Independence Day' comes a spectacular roller-coaster ride that ... more
boasts pulse-pounding action and sensational mindblowing special effects. When global warming triggers the onset of a new Ice Age tornadoes flatten Los Angeles a...
Postage & Packaging: £0.00 Availability: 3-5 working days
From the Director of Independence Day comes a spectacular roller-coaster ride that boasts ... more
pulse-pounding action and sensational, mindblowing special effects. When global warming triggers the onset of a new Ice Age, tornadoes flatten Los Angeles, a tida...
Turning pressing environmental issues into the theme of a big summer blockbuster, you cant ... more
say that director Roland Emmerich isnt willing to take his chances. And whileThe Day After Tomorrowdoes ask you to suspend fair chunks of disbelief, it is both a...
Postage & Packaging: Free! Availability: Usually dispatched within 24 hours...
Advantages: Looks fantastic, Decent soundtrack, easily enjoyable for the weather effects Disadvantages: The story line is so bland and one dimensional, You couldnt care less about the characters
![The Day After Tomorrow - Two Disc Edition [DVD] [2004]](http://picnicb.ciao.com/uk/78519533.jpg "The Day After Tomorrow - Two Disc Edition [DVD] [2004]")
May 11th, 2007
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