Aeon Flux

Review by Clint Morris

“Stay off the Grass”.

Couldn’t have said it better love. But, it would’ve made much more sense had you been referring to the thick doobie that Ms Theron had hoofed-on before her meeting with MTV to discuss this multiplex mudpie - and not merely speaking dialogue from a scene where Charlize’s Aeon Flux has to dodge a finely honed bed of blades, if she wants to make it through the film alive.

Of course, she will, make it through the film alive. Not that most who attend will be able to confirm such a thing – having walked out halfway through the thing. You see, to survive this travesty, the patrons might be best served with whatever Theron’s agent was drinking when he suggested she do this nonsensical turd. At least then, it might – if even just for the sharp grass? – be good for a laugh

Based on the visually stunning MTV anime series - set 400 years in the future and chronicling the adventures of a sexy femme fatale who goes up against the totalitarian government  - Aeon Flux is little more than a platform for the new Apple Mac effects programmes. The compelling story, it seems, was left in the archives of the creator’s Power Mac 7200/75, which sits immobile at the bottom of a seagull-guarded tip.

Having perceptibly not read any of the reviews for The Matrix sequels, the filmmakers have neglected to pay as much attention to the storyline or characters, as they have the computer generated imagery and stunts, and it sorely shows. Big time.

Having fronted such solid efforts as Monster, North Country and The Life and Death of Peter Sellers, up to this point, it’s rather sad to see Oscar Winner Charlize Theron reduced to such poppycock (and don’t get me started on Frances McDormand – she looks as out of place as a ham at a Muslim Christmas).

One can only assume one of two things: 1) That the film read a lot better on paper, or 2) That Halle Berry hadn’t yet got her thrashing for Catwoman, when the offer was presented to Ms Theron.

Should’ve stayed a cartoon. 

1 out of 5

Aeon Flux
Australian release: 13th April, 2006
Cast: Charlize Theron, Martin Csokas, Jonny Lee Miller, Sophie Okonedo, Frances McDormand, Pete Postelthwaite, Amelia Warner
Director: Karyn Kusama
Website: Click here.