The Tomorrow War

The Tomorrow War (2021)

An Entertaining Sci-Fi Action Yarn

by Ray Manukay

★★★☆☆

Watched 10 Jun 2024

The Tomorrow War delivers an entertaining mix of time travel, sci-fi, and action. Buoyed by likable leads and solid production value, it offers more than just a typical summer blockbuster, weaving in thoughtful concepts alongside its high-stakes premise.

🎬 Production Credits

Director: Chris McKay

Writer: Zach Dean

Cinematography: Larry Fong

Editor: Roger Barton

Music: Lorne Balfe

Studio: Amazon Studios

An effective, subtle analogy to the dangers of climate change to society, and to the planet. — Ray Manukay

Ideas and Concepts

The film is anchored by some interesting ideas and concepts, specifically regarding the weight of the future on the present generation. Unlike many direct-to-streaming efforts, the special effects here are decent and immersive, particularly the creature designs of the White Spikes.

💡 Fun Facts

• This was the live-action directorial debut for Chris McKay, who previously directed The LEGO Batman Movie.
• The film was originally intended for a theatrical release by Paramount before being sold to Amazon due to the pandemic.
• The "White Spikes" aliens were designed to look like they could feasibly overwhelm a modern military through sheer speed and aggression.

The Performances

• Chris Pratt: Brings his signature likability to the role of Dan Forester, anchoring the emotional stakes.
• Yvonne Strahovski: Provides a strong, grounded performance that carries much of the film's second half.
• J.K. Simmons: Memorable as Dan’s estranged, survivalist father.

✅ Pros

• Strong chemistry between Pratt and Strahovski.
• Impressive special effects for a streaming movie.
• Subtle but effective climate change analogy.

❌ Cons

• Some logical leaps in the time-travel mechanics.

Read the original review on Letterboxd

🏆 Final Verdict

An entertaining sci-fi action yarn with interesting concepts that make it worth a watch for fans of the genre.