Source Code

Being hailed as 'The Inception of 2011' I was curious yet wary. Inception was undoubtedly my favourite film from last year, playing up to all the elements of sci fi that I adore. So to be compared to such a masterpiece in blockbuster film making gives it quite a lot to live up to. However being directed by David Bowie's son Duncan Jones (who was behind the emotionally enthralling Moon) I secretly had quite a lot of confidence in this.

The premise is intriguing. Jake Gyllenhaal's character must relive the same 8 minutes of someone else's life over and over again, in order to catch the terrorist responsible for the explosion and death of hundreds of people on a train and prevent further attacks. Giving away anymore information would probably constitute as a spoiler because the reasons for Jake being the source code detective, and the science behind it are only drip fed throughout the film. Only at the end do we really get a full picture, and even then I had to think and discuss the ending with my family before I really understood it. At least I think I understood it! Basically, its a modern thriller meets Groundhog day. It does a good job of keeping you guessing and thinking.

The characters are a bit uninteresting but Jake does an acceptable job as the main protagonist, and the characters on the train are each unique enough to have a place in the story. The romance feels rushed and far too predictable but does help to call in the ethics surrounding the Source Code.

Whilst no Inception, Source Code is an above par sci fi with a constantly engaging, interesting plot.  [B+]