Johnny Mnemonic
Here Is What You Need To Know:
-If you like cyberpunk, then you've probably already seen Johnny Mnemonic,the William Gibson story brought to life. Keanu Reeves plays Johnny who has some very important data downloaded into his head and becomes a very wanted man as a result. The amount of data is so vast that it threatens to destroy his mind. The story is full of some crazy, off the wall ideas about the future could, many of which could theoretically happen, such as the world being completely controlled by vast corporations, ahem, as well as some really out there ideas such as a talking dolphin.
Johnny Mnemonic is definitely not your typical movie and credit points must be given for innovation, as both the script and the look of the film were fresh and new for 1995. In fact, the visuals attached to the digital world of Johnny Mnemonic are both conceptually and visually interesting. While considered a classic by fans of the genre, Johnny Mnemonic was probably just a few years too early for its own good.
What Was Cool:
-Many of the concepts laid out in the film are thought-provoking and fun to play with.
-The ever talented Dina Meyer of Starship Trooper fame is present and accounted for and shining bright.
-The visual effects and approach to the digital world are very cool.
-Personally I like the talking dolphin.
What Was Stupid:
-No doubt Reeves' acting is rougher than sandpaper. If you don't think his acting has improved, rent Johnny Mnemonic. Seriously, his acting has improved. Rent Thumbsucker if you don't believe me.
-Is it just me or does it seem that Ice-T is the death nail for a science-fiction film? What is that all about, huh? Johnny Mnemonic AND Tank Girl in the same year?
The Film's Real Genius or Geniuses:
-William Gibson
Overlooked Performance/Accomplishment:
-Because the film was a flop of sorts, director Robert Longo has never really been acknowledged as being a talented director. Say what you will about Johnny Mnemonic the film has a cool look and tone-most of the time. Sadly Longo has essentially bowed out of directing since this film.
Story B (This is one of those strong stories that was one, ahead of its time by a few years, and two needed to be shaped differently to make it more assessable for a mass audience of sheep. An improved screenplay probably could have done wonders.)
Use of Science A (Johnny Mnemonic does play with big ideas and concepts and I always give points for that.)
Acting C
Portrayal of Women B
Visuals-VFX and SFX A-
Visuals-Set Design/Props B+
Wardrobe/Costumes B
Style/Sex Appeal B
Enjoyability Grade B
Home Theater/HD Factor B
Gut Check (Level of Studio Executive Guts) B
Overall Innovation B
Overall Grade B ( Approach with caution as Johnny Mnemonic may not be for everyone.)
A Little Fact About Cherie:
-I still have nightmares about high-school.
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