Sunday, 1 March 2009

Review - Summit Entertainment - Push

Summit Entertainment - Push

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7 out of 10

Telekinetic Nick (Evans) has managed to elude the ominous Division's grasp by hiding in Hong Kong's teeming underbelly. But when Kira (Belle); the latest victim of Division's drug trials escapes, Nick, assisted by the clairvoyant Cassie (Fanning) become embroiled in a super-powered war between Division and those looking to unleash the potential of their new power enhancing drug. When the future depends on your every decision, walking away is not an option.

Chris Evans is no newcomer to superhero duties. As cocksure hotshot Johnny Storm he was arguably the best thing about both Fantastic Four movies; an accolade he carries over to director Paul McGuigan's latest sci-fi actioner, Push. Set in the not too distant future, Push uncovers a world where powerful governments use those with psychic abilities; known as agents to wage their wars. Movers have the ability to manipulate inanimate objects, Watchers can see the future and Pushers; the most feared of all agents can introduce thoughts into the minds of their victims, compelling them to act out or believe any instruction.

The story begins to pick up pace when Kira; the only survivor of an ability enhancing experiment escapes Division. With Division eager to recover their most valuable asset they dispatch their whole arsenal of agents, headed by the uncompromising Carver (Hounsou); a pusher with a penchant for pain. But in a city where watchers know your every move disappearing is an ability many would covet.

It is through Dakota Fanning's Cassie that much of the film's detail is revealed. The daughter of a lauded watcher, it is she who introduces us to this clandestine world during the opening narrative and it is her clairvoyance that enables Nick and Cassie to track down Kira. Fanning's talent has never been in doubt and it is encouraging to see her taking strides from child star to leading lady, a transition that is marked in one scene by her getting inebriated for clearer visions.

The star of the show though is Evans. Without been required to take off his shirt or pummel an endless procession of villains, Evans onscreen presence is effortless and enjoyable. He has a versatility that will enable him to tread many paths for many years to come.

While many will remark on Push's similarities to X-Men and Heroes it deserves to be applauded on its own merits. Choice casting and an intriguing premise make Push an enjoyable spectacle and it deserves the sequel it so subtly builds to.

Movie Website: www.push-themovie.com

Cast List:

Nick Gant: Chris Evans
Cassie Holmes: Dakota Fanning
Kira Hudson: Camilla Belle
Henry Carver: Djimon Hounsou
Victor Budarin: Neil Jackson
Hook Waters: Cliff Curtis

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