Film Review: Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch. Rated M (frequent action violence and mature themes). 109 minutes. Directed by Zack Snyder. Screenplay by Zack Snyder and Steve Shibuya.

From the moment Sucker Punch begins, we know we are in tricky territory. ‘Baby Doll’ (Emily Browning) and her younger sister are living under the tyrannical rule of their step-father who delights in terrifying and abusing them. When her attempt to bring an end to the horrific cycle of domestic abuse goes horribly wrong, we are catapulted into a sinister world where nothing is as it seems – and where fantastic imaginings of other-worldly adventures are the only possible means of escape.

The premise suits Snyder’s (300, Watchmen) undeniably brilliant skills as a master creator of evocative (and often dazzling) visual spectacle like a glove. Snyder also reaps the considerable benefits of working with his team of frequent collaborators including Larry Fong (cinematography), William Hoy (editing) and Michael Wilkinson (costume design) – each of whom have obviously relished the opportunity to respond magnificently to the director’s vision. Rick Carter’s (Avatar, War of the Worlds, Jurassic Park, Forrest Gump) lavish production design creates the perfect big-screen environments within which the story unfolds – and it is impossible not to admire the pure, unbridled power of creativity on show.

Yet without the combined powerhouse performances from Snyder’s exceptional cast, one is left with the distinct impression that this film could easily be dismissed as an indulgent Charlie’s Angels meets Terminator-inspired hybrid. Australian-born Ms Browning is astonishingly good in the complex and multi-layered leading role, while Jena Malone (as Rocket), Abbie Cornish (Sweet Pea), Jamie Chung (Amber), Carla Gugino (as dance teacher Vera Gorski) and an unrecognisable Vanessa Hudgens (Blondie) ensure that the stakes are raised even higher with their superbly committed performances.

While it suffers from occasional lapses in pace and pop-psychology earnestness that would make Freud turn in his grave – Sucker Punch is absolutely guaranteed to have you discussing its considerable merits for hours, if not days, afterwards. Love it, or hate it – you won’t forget it in a hurry.

This review was commissioned by the Geraldton Newspaper Group.