Is it a good video game to movie adaptation
Hey guys,
Welcome Back to the Lab,
Today we are going to be talking about the new film Uncharted. So let's get into it!
Back in 2008 when it was first announced they were going to adapt one of my favourite game franchises of all time into a film, I will admit; I was very apprehensive. The games themselves were cinematic enough as they were; did they need a film?! Well after years of development hell, actor and director changes and covid delays. We finally got our answers.
So let’s get straight to the point, I had a lot of fun with this film, sure it is not the best film I have ever seen, but that’s not to say it’s a bad movie. I walked out having had fulfilled the exact intention I had walking in. I wanted a couple hours of pure escapism and fun, that’s what this film gives. It is very easy to pick apart films nowadays, to over analyse them and truly find every plot hole there is. Hell I do it myself all the time but every once in a while, you just need to sit back and enjoy. That’s exactly what this film presents.
What I really like and respect about this film, is it’s not trying to be the video game series. This isn’t a shot for shot remake of Uncharted 4. Sure it takes numerous elements and sequences and uses them to its advantage, yet it’s also trying to be its own entity. It’s honouring the games it’s inspired from, whilst also bringing a new life to these characters. For me, if they hadn’t of done that, there would have been no point in seeing the film, so I’m very happy they did.
The Set Pieces, Action and Puzzles are a big part of the uncharted games, and are key to get right. I think this film finds the right balance of them all, especially with the puzzles. They are not overbearing and constant, sure there is a lot of them, but it still feels like the right amount. Its quite a fast paced movie, it doesn’t feel slow and I think the puzzles help with that. As mentioned the set pieces and action also helps with this a lot too. Especially the plane sequence at the start (Inspired by Uncharted 3). It takes this set piece from Uncharted 3 but shows us a new side to it. It really is alot of fun. Not to mention the numerous Easter eggs throughout the film really help add to the fun of the movie.
Let’s talk about casting, firstly Tom Holland as Nathan Drake. Personally, I thought he was great, he embodied the humour and charm and charisma that I love about Nolan Norths interpretation and brings his own style too it, again, he is not trying to copy Nolan Norths performance, more honour and adapt to fit the style of film they are making. It needs to be a new and fresh version of the character otherwise it won’t work. I really enjoyed his take on the character and I truly hope we get more.
One of the things I’m really happy about with the action is that Nate isn’t over-powered. In each situation he finds himself in, he is just trying to hold his own, he’s not the best fighter or best shot, but he’s good enough to fight people off. Much like the Nate from the games. Then when this coincides with him coming out with his iconic outfit, gun holsters and theme from the game, I must admit, I punched the air.
As for Mark Wahlberg as Sully. I appreciate what they are trying to do with this version of the character, they are trying to show us the evolution of him from a selfish treasure hunter, to the accomplice we know and love. Do I think he is perfect for the role; perhaps not, however I don’t think he’s bad. He works well in the film and bounces off Tom Holland nicely, I would like to see him develop a little more, perhaps be a little older, but I look forward to where they take his character.
I also want to give a quick mention of Sophia Ali as Chloe Frazer. She truly is fantastic. For me it was clear she had studied the character of Chloe well and knew her inside out, I hope we see more of her.
One of the things I think the film could have worked on however was it’s use of villains. For me, they just were not memorable enough. That’s not the fault of the actors, it was more there role in the story, they felt more generic than they should have been. I cared more about the hunt for the treasure than I did the villains stakes in the film. So in a sequel I hope that’s improved on.
Overall, Uncharted is a lot of fun with a lot of potential, whilst there are things it can improve on such as it’s villains. It’s use of set pieces, Easter eggs and main leads will make sure you walk out of the cinema with a smile. I look forward to a sequel.
What did you think of Uncharted? Let us know!
Until the next post,
Stay Safe, Look after each other,
Harry x