Movie Name: Uglies
Cast: Joey King, Keith Powers, Chase Stokes, Brianne Tju, Laverne Cox
Director: McG
Genre: Sci-Fi Drama
Available on: Netflix
Set in a dystopian future, Uglies is based on Scott Westerfeld’s novel of the same name, the first in a trilogy. This suggests that sequels may soon follow. While Uglies treads familiar ground for fans of the genre, it still manages to capture attention with its fast-paced and engaging storyline.
Joey King is the standout performer, delivering a captivating portrayal of a conflicted protagonist. Her nuanced facial expressions and ability to convey her character’s internal struggle keep the audience intrigued throughout the film.
Although the plot is somewhat predictable, it remains compelling enough to make viewers curious about what happens next. The CGI and background score are well-executed, complementing the movie’s rhythm and helping to sustain its momentum.
That said, Uglies is an average film, often reminiscent of similar dystopian stories like Divergent. It doesn’t break new ground in terms of innovation, but it offers a decent amount of entertainment. For teenage audiences, in particular, it provides a fun and enjoyable watch.
In summary, while Uglies may not bring anything fresh to the dystopian genre, its gripping pace, solid performances, and visual appeal make it a decent one-time watch, especially for fans of teen sci-fi adventures.