A.V. Opinions: Elysium is a HALO-esque hidden gem
"Elysium" (2013) is an underrated sci-fi action film that deserves more credit than it received. Despite lackluster critic scores (a mere 65% on Rotten Tomatoes and 61 on Metacritic), it’s a fun and entertaining movie from director Neil Blomkamp.
As a HALO fan, I'm fascinated by the connection between "Elysium" and the beloved video game franchise. Neil Blomkamp was initially tapped to direct a Halo movie, produced by Peter Jackson, but the project fell apart due to creative differences and financing issues. However, Blomkamp didn't let his vision go to waste, channeling his work on Halo into "Elysium", which borrowed heavily from the game's universe. The movie's futuristic weaponry, mech suits, and even the halo-like design of the Elysium space station all pay homage to Halo. As a fan, I can't help but wonder what a Blomkamp-directed Halo movie would have looked like.
I have a personal Elysium fan theory that Max Da Costa's character, miraculously survived his near-fatal injuries. His body was then discovered by the UNSC, who saw an opportunity to create a new Spartan super soldier. I imagine an end-credit scene showing Max's Spartan helmet being lowered onto his head, his eyes flickering to life as he takes his first breath as a supersoldier. This would set the stage for a potential Halo movie, where Max, now a Spartan, fights to protect humanity from the Covenant. While this may be purely a product of my imagination, I enjoy the idea that Max's story continues beyond the end of the movie. Nobody can take away my headcanon;)
In addition, the movie's visuals are stunning, with impressive CGI and action sequences. The budget is evident on screen. The world-building is also noteworthy, with a stark contrast between the luxurious, high-tech utopia of Elysium and the decrepit, overpopulated Earth. And while Matt Damon may not be my first choice for the lead role, he does a fine job as Max Da Costa, a former car thief turned unlikely hero. However, it's Sharlto Copley who steals the show as the unhinged and ruthless Kruger, a mercenary with a penchant for violence.
All in all, "Elysium" has a lot going for it. Despite its quality, it underperformed at the box office, grossing only $286 million worldwide against a budget of $115 million. This is a shame, as the movie offers a fun and enjoyable sci-fi experience that deserves more attention. If you're a fan of sci-fi action or Blomkamp's work, do yourself a favor and watch "Elysium" – it's a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.
-Brad McBoom