Live. Die. Repeat.
That’s the smart mantra behind “Edge of Tomorrow,” the unfortunately
titled but damn entertaining Tom Cruise sci-fi actioner that marries “Groundhog
Day” to “Starship Troopers.” The trailers promises action and explosions. Those
we get. But it’s also a surprisingly funny romp about a pompous PR-hack-turned-soldier
(Cruise) who resurrects every time he is killed in battle against alien
creatures that mesh robotics and Red Lobster dinner fare. How so? Not
important. What is of interest: Dozens of those deaths are comedy gold such as
when Cruise -– let’s face it, the guy has ego to spare –- eats some tires getting
run over while escaping push-up duty. But there’s a better reason to cheer:
Emily Blunt plays the kick-ass hero who pummels Cruise’s worm into a deadly
warrior. Blunt -– best known for comedy -– is damn good. Never weak per some
script mandate. Cruise again gives his all, his eyes going from vacant to
deadly smart. Director Doug Liman (“Bourne Identity”) wraps up with a popcorn friendly finale, but the ride is worth repeat views. Female hero.
Pure send-up of macho action tropes. Bill Paxton satirizing
“Aliens” bravado. Far better than its given title. B+
Lean on Pete
7 years ago
