“Alienoid: Return to the Future” tells the story of humans and monks who try to save everyone by returning to the present. Hidden secrets are revealed in the fierce battle for the new sword.
“Alienoid: Return to the Future” is a sequel that endeavors to expand upon the complex narrative established by its 2022 predecessor. However, the film’s convoluted plot and frenetic pacing may prove challenging for viewers to follow, particularly those unfamiliar with the first installment.
The movie ambitiously spans multiple timelines, oscillating between the 14th century and the present day. At the story’s core is Lee Ahn (Kim Tae-ri), a determined warrior navigating time to secure the Divine Sword. This ancient artifact possesses the capability to prevent an alien invasion that threatens humanity’s very existence. A diverse array of characters emerges, each possessing their own motivations for acquiring the sword.
While some of the action sequences are enjoyable, incorporating elements of both tension and humor, the overarching narrative becomes increasingly difficult to discern. The frequent introduction and subsequent disappearance of characters inhibit emotional investment in their arcs. The plot’s intricate twists and turns, akin to a temporally disorienting journey, afford minimal opportunity for thematic resonance or character development.
A notable shortcoming of the film is the underutilization of its inherent potential. The beautiful cinematography and the exploration of weighty themes such as time, power, and survival become overshadowed by the narrative’s unwieldy chaos. Rather than achieving depth or introspection, the viewer is presented with a rapid succession of action-oriented set pieces interspersed with comedic dialogue.
In conclusion, “Alienoid: Return to the Future” is a sequel that showcases audacity in its storytelling scope yet struggles to strike a balance between ambition and coherence. Fans of the original may discover aspects to appreciate, but for novice viewers, the film may prove inaccessible. It is hoped that if there are any future installments in the series, it will harmonize the narrative’s complexity with more measured pacing, thereby enabling themes and characters to flourish.
Now available on Digital and on Blu-ray™ and DVD July 30th