Chaos Walking (2021) Review

 

Introduction

Based on the Chaos Walking trilogy by Patrick Ness, Chaos Walking (2021) is a dystopian sci-fi film directed by Doug Liman. Starring Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley, the film explores a world where thoughts are visible, making secrecy and privacy impossible. With a strong premise and a talented cast, the movie had significant potential. However, its journey to the big screen was fraught with delays, reshoots, and production challenges. So, does Chaos Walking live up to its intriguing concept? Let’s dive into the details.

Plot Overview

Set in a distant future, Chaos Walking takes place on a colonized planet where men’s thoughts manifest as visible and audible projections called “Noise.” Todd Hewitt (Tom Holland) lives in Prentisstown, a settlement devoid of women, where he struggles to control his Noise. One day, Todd encounters Viola Eade (Daisy Ridley), a mysterious young woman whose ship crashes on the planet. Unlike the men, Viola has no Noise, making her a target of suspicion.

As Todd and Viola uncover dark secrets about Prentisstown’s past, they must evade the settlement’s authoritarian leader, Mayor Prentiss (Mads Mikkelsen), while seeking safety and answers. The journey explores themes of trust, identity, and the consequences of unfiltered thoughts.

Strengths

1. Intriguing Concept

The premise of “Noise,” where thoughts are constantly on display, is undeniably unique and thought-provoking. It raises questions about privacy, self-control, and communication, offering a fertile ground for compelling storytelling.

2. Strong Performances

Tom Holland and Daisy Ridley deliver solid performances, bringing depth and relatability to their characters. Holland portrays Todd’s vulnerability and internal conflict effectively, while Ridley’s Viola provides a strong counterpoint with her resilience and quiet determination. Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of the manipulative Mayor Prentiss adds gravitas to the antagonistic role.

3. Visually Stunning Landscapes

The film’s setting is brought to life with breathtaking cinematography. The alien planet, with its vast forests and rugged terrain, creates a sense of isolation and danger that complements the story’s themes.

4. Fast-Paced Action

The movie includes several well-executed action sequences, from tense chases to confrontations with the Mayor’s men. These moments keep the narrative moving and add excitement to the otherwise uneven pacing.

Weaknesses

1. Underdeveloped World-Building

While the concept of “Noise” is fascinating, the movie provides limited context for its origins and implications. Key aspects of the planet’s history, including the fate of the women in Prentisstown and the relationship between settlers and indigenous species, are glossed over or left unexplored.

2. Simplified Plot

The film condenses the rich narrative of the source material into a straightforward chase story, losing much of the depth and complexity that made the books compelling. Subplots and character arcs are underdeveloped, leaving viewers with unanswered questions.

3. Pacing Issues

Chaos Walking struggles with pacing, particularly in its second act. After an engaging start, the story drags in places, with repetitive scenes and a lack of narrative momentum. The climax, while action-packed, feels rushed and lacks emotional weight.

4. Inconsistent Tone

The film’s tone shifts awkwardly between serious drama and lighthearted adventure. While some humor works, it often undercuts the tension and stakes of the story, diminishing the impact of key moments.

Themes and Symbolism

1. The Burden of Transparency

The concept of “Noise” serves as a metaphor for the challenges of living in an age of constant communication and lack of privacy. Todd’s struggle to control his Noise reflects the broader human desire to balance honesty with discretion.

2. Gender Dynamics

The absence of women in Prentisstown highlights issues of power, control, and societal imbalance. Viola’s arrival disrupts the town’s status quo, challenging the patriarchal structure imposed by Mayor Prentiss.

3. Coming of Age

At its core, Chaos Walking is a story about self-discovery. Todd’s journey from a sheltered, naive boy to a determined young man mirrors the universal process of growing up and facing uncomfortable truths.

Visual and Technical Aspects

1. Cinematography

The lush, untamed landscapes of the alien planet are beautifully captured, immersing viewers in the film’s setting. Wide shots of forests, rivers, and mountains emphasize the isolation and danger faced by the characters.

2. Sound Design

The “Noise” effect is cleverly executed, blending whispers, shouts, and visual projections to represent the characters’ thoughts. However, its constant presence can become overwhelming, making some scenes feel cluttered.

3. Production Design

The rustic, frontier-style aesthetic of Prentisstown contrasts sharply with the advanced technology of Viola’s ship, highlighting the cultural divide between settlers and outsiders. This design choice reinforces the film’s themes of isolation and progress.

Final Verdict

Chaos Walking is an ambitious film that delivers solid performances and a visually stunning world, but it ultimately falls short of its potential. The intriguing premise is undercut by shallow world-building, uneven pacing, and a simplified plot. While it offers moments of excitement and emotional resonance, the movie struggles to fully capture the complexity and depth of its source material.

For fans of dystopian sci-fi, Chaos Walking provides an entertaining, if flawed, experience. However, those seeking a faithful adaptation of Patrick Ness’s trilogy may be left wanting more.

Rating: 6/10