The Island: Review By Bawnian©-Dexeus

The Island is a 2005 American science fiction/thriller film.

Directed by Michael Bay.

Starring: Ewan McGregor, Scarlett Johansson, Sean Bean, Djimon Hounsou, Steve Buscemi and Michael Clarke Duncan.

Lincoln Six-Echo (Ewan McGregor) a resident in a Utopian environment has developed a thing called curiosity. After being told that the outside world has been contaminated due to an apocalyptic event, he later discovers that his purpose is to be farmed and stripped for parts for the original owner; he's a clone. Jordan Two-Delta (Scarlett Johansson) is chosen to go to The Island, the last place on Earth not contaminated, when in fact it means her human counterpart is requesting her order. After the truth is witnessed by Lincoln he escapes with Jordan in order to find their makers while escaping the forces that scientifically created them.

In my opinion, this movie is Bay's unique work of art. A good story, great casting choice, balanced plot where the first hour explains us this new world, it's purpose, the inhabitants and a scary development you wouldn't expect, and then the second hour that simply screams "Michael Bay". Full on action, a limited yet equal amount of explosions and action sequences. A movie where the director doesn't just begin with a huge explosion or people trying to kill each other in the name of justice or evil.

No, the film opens with a beautiful look at two individuals on what seems to be an expensive looking yacht on their way to the famous island. Marvelous cinematography, a score perfectly executed to the environment and the present emotion by Steve Jablonsky that pulls you into it's unknown depths: is it paradise or a farce. Is it a place far beyond the human's level of comprehension? Gladly, however, these questions are later answered. But going through the first half of the movie, you wonder....How does this facility exist? Is it secret? What happens to the world we know? Was there really a contamination or is it all a farce to keep the clones in check? Unnaturally of course.

For it being set in 2019, we're pretty much close to it, and yet, I haven't seen much improvement to the visual standard that the film employs. sure, I've seen the concepts, the galleries and the designs, but really, where are they? Where are these delicious looking toys we all want to play with? Hmm? I guess we have to wait a few more years. But the product placement is quite rich. Puma and Speedo being the principal choice for comfort, flexibility and style. Having X-Box be the leading game console for epic virtual reality fight competitions? Awesome. Basically, companies at their best.

Having the clones at an intelligence level of that of a fifteen year old was a must and exciting attribute. They don't know any better, they think they have all the answers, and when in the real world, fear sinks in. Unable to survive or fend for themselves,s and Dr. Merrick is their father and voice of reason. A creators soul mission to take care of his children and make sure things are in smooth motion. And how could he not? The man is earning billions and billions from the department of defense yearly.

Steve Jablonsky music is beautiful, inspiring and awe. From start to finish it is perfectly toned, with the drive, emotion, and that last piece, the track named I am Lincoln, is simply breathtaking.

The Actors:

Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson: Both play their respective roles magnificently. Dealing with the unknown, convincingly displaying their adaptive skills to a new environment and how fast their awareness to their own intelligence can increase.

Sean Bean: Well, he plays his role with the same drive and passion as all his other past characters. he can be a happy man, a serious brute or an evil genius.

Michael Clark Duncan: While only in a few scenes, his outburst from betrayal and fear of death was funny but quite good for some one on one action.

Djimon Hounsou: When it comes to action, he can be cool but mean at the same time. His development was surprising actually. Following orders to the letter then later turns the tables for the better and advantage of the protagonists.

Steve Buscemi: How can you not love this guy? All his characters, no matter how short their time on screen is, are loved and funny.

The Visuals:

The detail and design of the military bunker for the clones was pure eye candy. Michael Bay sure likes the color white, because it always looks rich in his films. The futuristic look on the vehicles, buildings, and technological features are slick, crisp and elegant. Products at their best. The action, as always in a Bay film, superb. The cinematography, lens flare, and the classic tanned look on all the actors...cool as always. I've always loved the color correction in Bay's movies. A realistic look.

Overall:

One of Bay's better films since The Rock (hard to believe it's the only one not tarnished by the reviews). If it's one thing Michael Bay knows, it's action and blockbusters. The man knows what he wants, get's what he wants and delivers to the letter/dollar.

Written by: Bawnian©-Dexeus.