Gamer is an out an out action film with no actual base or aim. The film is set in New York, in the near future where mind technology is a popular choice. It begins with Ken Castle (Michael C Hall), the creator of mind technology in the gaming world.
Castle invents self-replicating nanites, which once placed in the brain, replaces the existing brain cells allowing full control of body by a third party. He invents games like 'Society', which in today's world is very similar to th e'Sims' with only the difference that its humans playing other humans who sign up to be a part of 'Society' for money.
Castle becomes the richest man after inventing a similar game called 'Slayers' where players combat with other players. Here the fighters on screen are convicts who are serving a sentence in the prison. Any inmate who lives through 30 matches wins a full pardon. And a smalltime convict gets pardon if he manages to survive one match. Most convicts do not survive even two matches; some lose their mind and kill themselves.
Simon (Logan Lerman) a teenager is the gamer who controls Kable (Gerard Butler). After winning almost 27 matches, Kable becomes the face of 'Slayers', But 30 matches and he would be free. So Castle plots to kill Kable in the last match. However, an activist organisation, 'Humanz', who is totally against this practice try to rescue Kable so he can expose Castle's devious plans. They believe that Castle will eventually use the nanitetechnology to control people against their will.
During his 30th battle, Kable manages to escape with the help of the organisation. He tracks down his wife, Angie (Amber Valetta) who is a part of the game 'Society' and tries to deactivate the nanite cells in her brain. But unfortunately his daughter is with Castle. Does he manage to survive and save his family or not or does he succumb to Castle's intentions, is something I better not divulge in.
The film is an action and thriller filled with gore and blood. Some of the action sequences are actually quite exciting. The sound effects used in the film manage to create an effect.
However, right from the start, there is no aim to the game. It shows no base on why the government allows it or where do they create the base where the convicts combat. The re-creation of the game Society is good.
Gamer does seem a rip off from a lot of movies combined like Matrix, Surrogate and many more. The film has nothing new or unique to offer. No action film can be mundane so like all others, this one holds your attention but offers nothing new or great.
The film does put light on where the new generation is heading with 24/7 exposure to products, sex and violence. But it's not effective enough.
All the actors try and put in their best. However, Gerard Butler of 300 seems to be wasted - his is a minimal-dialogue role. Michael C Hall plays his part very convincingly. Logan Lerman also delivers a decent performance. Amber Valetta does a good job too.
Verdict: The film makes for a decent view, but only for gamers.
Rating: Not So Great
Comments
0 comment