The Mummy Tom Cruise Movie Review

The opening scene of The Mummy, starring Tom Cruise, plunges us into ancient Egypt, setting the stage for an adventure that promises a thrilling ride. But as the story unfolds, one can't help but wonder if this reboot lives up to the legacy of its predecessors. With breathtaking visuals and Cruise's signature action sequences, The Mummy attempts to blend classic monster lore with modern blockbuster sensibilities. Yet, does it succeed in delivering a cohesive and compelling narrative?

The 2017 rendition of The Mummy aimed to resurrect the iconic monster for a new generation, envisioning a fresh and action-packed cinematic universe. Tasked with revitalizing a classic, the film faced the challenge of balancing reverence for the source material with the demands of contemporary audiences. In this review, we’ll delve into the various facets of the movie, examining its strengths and weaknesses to determine whether it achieves its ambitious goals. From the performances of the cast to the intricacies of the plot and the overall execution, we'll dissect what makes The Mummy a noteworthy, if somewhat flawed, entry in the monster movie canon.

Main Subheading

The Mummy (2017) stars Tom Cruise as Nick Morton, a U.S. Army sergeant who stumbles upon the tomb of Princess Ahmanet, played by Sofia Boutella. Ahmanet, an ancient Egyptian princess, was entombed alive after attempting to seize power through dark magic. When Nick accidentally awakens her, she sets out on a vengeful quest to reclaim her throne, unleashing chaos and destruction in her wake. The film is directed by Alex Kurtzman and also features Annabelle Wallis as Jenny Halsey, an archaeologist, and Russell Crowe as Dr. Henry Jekyll, adding a layer of intrigue and setting the stage for a broader cinematic universe.

The narrative structure combines elements of adventure, horror, and dark fantasy, as Nick and Jenny race against time to stop Ahmanet from completing her ritual and plunging the world into darkness. The dynamic between the characters is a crucial aspect of the film, with Nick's roguish charm clashing against Jenny's academic rigor, while Ahmanet's malevolent presence looms large, driving the plot forward. The film's visual effects and action sequences are designed to deliver a thrilling spectacle, immersing audiences in a world where ancient curses and modern-day realities collide.

Comprehensive Overview

The concept of mummies has ancient roots, steeped in the funerary practices of ancient Egypt. Mummification was a complex process designed to preserve the body for the afterlife, reflecting the Egyptians' profound belief in life after death. The process involved removing internal organs, drying the body with natron salt, and wrapping it in layers of linen bandages. Amulets and other sacred items were often placed within the wrappings to protect the deceased on their journey to the underworld.

In popular culture, mummies have evolved from mere preserved corpses to supernatural creatures imbued with ancient curses and formidable powers. This transformation can be traced back to early horror literature and cinema, where the mysteries of ancient Egypt were romanticized and exaggerated. The image of the mummy as a slow-moving, bandage-clad monster has become a staple of the horror genre, captivating audiences with its eerie mystique.

The modern cinematic depiction of mummies can be largely attributed to the 1932 film The Mummy, starring Boris Karloff. This classic movie established many of the tropes associated with the character, including the vengeful spirit seeking to resurrect a lost love. Subsequent films, such as the 1999 version of The Mummy starring Brendan Fraser, embraced a more adventure-oriented approach, blending action, humor, and horror. These films typically portray mummies as powerful adversaries with supernatural abilities, such as controlling sandstorms, summoning insects, and inflicting curses.

The Mummy (2017) attempts to build upon this legacy by introducing a female mummy as the primary antagonist. Princess Ahmanet is portrayed as a formidable and intelligent villain, driven by a thirst for power and a desire to reclaim what was denied to her. The film also incorporates elements of ancient Egyptian mythology, such as the god Set and the Book of the Dead, to enrich the narrative and provide a historical context for the events unfolding. However, the film's reliance on CGI and action sequences sometimes overshadows the more traditional horror elements, resulting in a mixed reception from critics and audiences alike.

The reboot aimed to set up a Dark Universe franchise, bringing together various classic movie monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Wolfman. This ambition influenced many aspects of the movie's plot and character introductions, particularly Dr. Henry Jekyll's dual role. While this approach had the potential to create an interconnected and thrilling series of films, it also placed a burden on The Mummy to establish numerous narrative threads simultaneously. The film's reception ultimately impacted the Dark Universe's trajectory, leading to a reevaluation of the franchise's direction.

Trends and Latest Developments

The horror genre has seen a resurgence in recent years, with audiences craving both original stories and reimagined classics. Monster movies, in particular, have experienced a revival, with films like Godzilla and Kong: Skull Island achieving box office success. This trend reflects a broader cultural fascination with larger-than-life creatures and the exploration of humanity's relationship with the natural world. The success of these films has demonstrated the enduring appeal of monster stories and their ability to resonate with contemporary audiences.

However, the modern approach to monster movies often involves a greater emphasis on spectacle and action, sometimes at the expense of character development and narrative coherence. The Mummy (2017) exemplifies this trend, with its focus on elaborate set pieces and CGI-driven action sequences. While these elements can be visually impressive, they can also detract from the film's ability to create a sense of genuine horror and suspense. Some critics have argued that the film prioritizes visual spectacle over substance, resulting in a hollow and unsatisfying experience.

One notable trend in recent monster movies is the exploration of complex and sympathetic villains. Rather than portraying monsters as purely evil creatures, filmmakers are increasingly interested in exploring their motivations and backstories. Princess Ahmanet in The Mummy represents this trend, as the film delves into her tragic past and the circumstances that led to her downfall. This approach allows audiences to empathize with the monster on some level, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. However, the execution of Ahmanet's character in The Mummy has been criticized for lacking emotional resonance, with some viewers finding her motivations unclear and her actions inconsistent.

The integration of cinematic universes has become a dominant trend in Hollywood, with studios seeking to create interconnected franchises that span multiple films and television series. The Mummy was intended to be the first installment in Universal's Dark Universe, a shared universe featuring classic movie monsters. However, the film's disappointing reception led to a reevaluation of this strategy, with Universal ultimately deciding to shift its focus to standalone monster movies with more distinct identities. This shift reflects a growing recognition that audiences value originality and creative freedom over formulaic franchise building.

Despite the challenges faced by The Mummy, the film has sparked renewed interest in the mythology and lore of ancient Egypt. The film's depiction of Princess Ahmanet and her quest for power has inspired fan theories and discussions about the role of women in ancient Egyptian society. Additionally, the film's visual design and set pieces have drawn attention to the art and architecture of ancient Egypt, encouraging viewers to explore this rich and fascinating culture. In this way, The Mummy has contributed to a broader cultural conversation about the legacy of ancient civilizations and their enduring influence on the modern world.

Tips and Expert Advice

For aspiring filmmakers looking to tackle the monster movie genre, several key principles can help ensure a successful production. First and foremost, it is essential to balance spectacle with substance. While impressive visual effects and action sequences can enhance the viewing experience, they should not come at the expense of character development, narrative coherence, and emotional resonance. A well-crafted story with compelling characters is crucial for engaging audiences and creating a lasting impact.

Another important tip is to respect the source material while also bringing something new to the table. When rebooting or reimagining a classic monster, it is essential to understand the character's history and mythology. However, it is equally important to find a fresh perspective or angle that will resonate with contemporary audiences. This might involve exploring the monster's motivations in greater depth, updating the story for a modern context, or subverting traditional tropes and expectations.

Building a strong ensemble cast is also essential for a successful monster movie. The dynamic between the characters can add depth and complexity to the narrative, providing opportunities for humor, romance, and emotional connection. When casting the film, it is important to choose actors who can embody the characters convincingly and bring their own unique talents to the roles. The chemistry between the actors can also play a crucial role in enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Creating a sense of genuine horror and suspense is crucial for a monster movie to be effective. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques, such as building tension through pacing and atmosphere, using sound design to create a sense of unease, and employing visual effects to shock and surprise the audience. However, it is important to avoid relying solely on jump scares and cheap thrills. A truly terrifying monster movie will leave a lasting impression on viewers by tapping into their deepest fears and anxieties.

Finally, it is essential to approach the monster movie genre with creativity and innovation. The genre has a rich history and a dedicated fan base, but there is always room for new ideas and approaches. Whether it's exploring a unique monster concept, blending different genres, or experimenting with unconventional storytelling techniques, pushing the boundaries of the genre can lead to exciting and unexpected results. By embracing creativity and innovation, filmmakers can ensure that the monster movie genre continues to evolve and captivate audiences for years to come.

FAQ

Q: What makes The Mummy (2017) different from previous Mummy movies?

A: The Mummy (2017) distinguishes itself by featuring a female mummy, Princess Ahmanet, as the primary antagonist. It also aims to establish a broader cinematic universe, incorporating elements of adventure, horror, and dark fantasy.

Q: Was The Mummy (2017) a box office success?

A: While it grossed over $400 million worldwide, The Mummy (2017) was considered a disappointment due to its high production and marketing costs, especially in the domestic market.

Q: Who are the main characters in The Mummy (2017)?

A: The main characters include Nick Morton (Tom Cruise), Princess Ahmanet (Sofia Boutella), Jenny Halsey (Annabelle Wallis), and Dr. Henry Jekyll (Russell Crowe).

Q: What is the Dark Universe, and how does The Mummy (2017) fit into it?

A: The Dark Universe was Universal's attempt to create a shared cinematic universe featuring classic movie monsters. The Mummy (2017) was intended to be the first installment, but the franchise's plans were altered due to the film's reception.

Q: What are some common criticisms of The Mummy (2017)?

A: Common criticisms include a cluttered plot, over-reliance on CGI, and a lack of genuine horror elements. Some viewers also found the characters underdeveloped and the narrative unfocused.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Mummy (2017) offers a mixed bag of thrills and disappointments. While it boasts impressive visual effects and action sequences, the film struggles to balance spectacle with substance, resulting in a cluttered plot and underdeveloped characters. The attempt to launch a Dark Universe also adds a layer of complexity that ultimately detracts from the core narrative. Despite its flaws, the film provides moments of genuine excitement and introduces a compelling female antagonist in Princess Ahmanet.

As a reboot of a classic monster franchise, The Mummy had the potential to usher in a new era of cinematic horror. However, its shortcomings highlight the challenges of revitalizing beloved properties while catering to modern blockbuster sensibilities. Whether you're a die-hard fan of monster movies or a casual viewer looking for an action-packed adventure, The Mummy offers a unique, if somewhat flawed, experience. Engage with the film, share your thoughts, and let's discuss whether this mummy deserves to rise again or remain entombed in cinematic history.