Nomad's Review: Serenity

Ward and Muse got the drop on me by seeing Serenity a week (and a day) earlier than I did, even though I was the one who introduced them to Firefly (the TV show the movie is based upon). For this, there will undoutedly be repercussions in the unspecified future. [Insert evi laughter here.] But now that I have had a chance to see the film I can fully understand how Ward loved it, and how Muse had a very hard time with it. Quite simply, it is a film which refuses to be predictable or to be either a round or square peg, in a Hollywood which only permits one or the other.

For those who have not read any of the reviews, the basic plot is... well... not entirely basic. Captain Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds captains a rickety cargo ship (the eponymous Serenity) on the edge of civilized space, which is literally falling apart. A veteran of a civil war that he lost, he has collected around him a group of supporting characters desperately in need of family, direction, and protection. His only goal in life is to survive and enjoy the freedom between the stars, but he is constantly hunted because of two fugitives that he took in about 8 months before. What ensues is certainly NOT hilarity, though there is a good deal of good humor in it.

The film flits between Western, Science Fiction, Zombie Flick, Political Thriller, Drama, Comedy, and Kung Fu short film without ever settling upon and of them. And unlike a Quentin Tarranino film which takes genres and nails them into the ground, this one transcends all of them. It does that which few films will do these days - it tells a story, with characters, and allows each one to shine. But it also demands real consequences from violence and evil, even when it violates characters we have come to know and love. This is the genius of Firefly/Serenity. It is also the curse. It is why Ward loved it, and Muse "hated" it.

Who should see Serenity? If you saw the TV show and liked it, see this film. If you are tired of Star Trek cliches, see this film. If you enjoy a good yarn and good characterization, see this film. If you are looking for a smooth popcorn film where good vanquishes evil, and in the end the hero steps unscathed out the smoke and fog and gets the girl, do not bother to see this film.

That being said, here is hoping for a sequel!