Pacific Rim: Uprising (2018) Review

Pacific Rim: Uprising, directed by Steven S. DeKnight, is the sequel to Guillermo del Toro’s 2013 cult hit Pacific Rim. While the original film captivated audiences with its unique blend of giant robots, monstrous Kaiju, and imaginative world-building, the sequel attempts to expand the franchise with new characters, upgraded Jaegers, and a fresh wave of conflicts. However, despite its action-packed sequences and visual spectacle, Uprising struggles to capture the charm and depth of its predecessor.

Plot Overview

The film is set ten years after the events of the original, with the world rebuilding after the closure of the Breach, the portal that allowed the Kaiju to invade Earth. Jake Pentecost (John Boyega), the rebellious son of fallen hero Stacker Pentecost (Idris Elba), is drawn back into the Pan-Pacific Defense Corps (PPDC) after a run-in with the law. He is tasked with training a new generation of Jaeger pilots alongside his estranged co-pilot, Nate Lambert (Scott Eastwood).

Meanwhile, tensions rise as rogue Jaegers threaten global security and a mysterious conspiracy involving the Kaiju emerges. With the help of young inventor Amara Namani (Cailee Spaeny) and her homemade Jaeger, Scrapper, Jake and his team must uncover the truth behind the new threat and face a massive Kaiju invasion that threatens humanity’s survival.

Performances

John Boyega shines as Jake Pentecost, delivering a charismatic and energetic performance that balances humor, swagger, and moments of emotional vulnerability. His portrayal injects much-needed personality into the film, making him a standout among the cast.

Cailee Spaeny’s Amara Namani is a compelling addition to the franchise. Her character’s resourcefulness and determination make her an inspiring figure, and Spaeny’s performance brings depth to her journey as a young recruit navigating the high-stakes world of Jaeger combat.

Scott Eastwood’s Nate Lambert, while serviceable as the by-the-book foil to Jake’s rebellious nature, lacks the charisma to leave a lasting impression. The supporting cast of cadets, though diverse, is underdeveloped, leaving little room for emotional investment in their arcs.

The return of Dr. Newton Geiszler (Charlie Day) and Dr. Hermann Gottlieb (Burn Gorman) provides continuity with the first film, but their dynamic feels less impactful this time around. Charlie Day’s character, in particular, takes a surprising and divisive turn that some viewers may find jarring.

Action and Visuals

As expected, Pacific Rim: Uprising delivers high-octane action sequences featuring colossal Jaeger-versus-Kaiju battles and Jaeger-on-Jaeger combat. The upgraded Jaegers are sleek and visually impressive, showcasing a variety of new weapons and abilities. The standout sequence in Tokyo, where the team faces off against a Kaiju-Jaeger hybrid, highlights the film’s commitment to thrilling and explosive set pieces.

The visual effects are polished, and the use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera angles adds a sense of energy to the battles. However, the film’s reliance on CGI sometimes comes at the expense of the tactile, weighty feel that made the original’s action so immersive.

Themes and Writing

While the original Pacific Rim explored themes of unity, sacrifice, and resilience, Uprising focuses more on individual redemption and the challenges of legacy. Jake’s struggle to step out of his father’s shadow is a central narrative thread, but the film’s thematic exploration feels surface-level compared to its predecessor.

The screenplay, written by a team including Steven S. DeKnight, lacks the emotional depth and world-building intricacy that defined the first film. The dialogue often leans on clichés, and the pacing feels rushed, particularly in the third act, where the story prioritizes spectacle over substance.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The film’s greatest strength lies in its action sequences and the visual design of the Jaegers and Kaiju. These elements provide moments of excitement and spectacle that are sure to please fans of the genre. John Boyega’s performance and the fresh dynamic between Jake and Amara are also highlights, offering glimpses of the film’s potential.

However, Pacific Rim: Uprising suffers from a lack of emotional resonance and character development. The film’s attempt to juggle multiple subplots and new characters results in a fragmented narrative that fails to fully engage the audience. Additionally, the absence of Guillermo del Toro’s signature touch is evident, as the sequel lacks the visionary creativity and heartfelt storytelling of the original.

Conclusion

Pacific Rim: Uprising is an entertaining but flawed sequel that delivers on action and spectacle but falls short in capturing the magic of its predecessor. While it offers moments of fun and introduces intriguing new elements to the franchise, its lack of narrative depth and emotional weight may leave some viewers disappointed.

For fans of giant robots and monster battles, Uprising provides enough excitement to be a worthwhile watch. However, those hoping for a sequel that builds upon the original’s rich world and compelling themes may find themselves yearning for the return of Guillermo del Toro’s masterful touch.