Prime Video is actively engaged in the science fiction genre. Not only has the action film The Tomorrow War recently been released on the streaming service, but with Voyagers, Prime Video brings a compelling sci-fi story to the small screen. An intriguing story that, in its execution, bears resemblance to other films within the genre.
A quest for a new planet so that humanity can survive when Earth no longer suffices, akin to Interstellar. A spaceship full of chosen ones destined to be the beginning of humanity on that new planet, similar to Passengers. And a group of children left to establish their own society without supervision, like Lord of the Flies. Mix these three stories together, and you get Voyagers. A tale of children born to travel into space, procreate, and have their grandchildren become the first generation on a new planet. But, of course, this plan doesn’t unfold smoothly.
Voyagers: The Story
How would you feel if you knew you existed solely to procreate and give your grandchildren a chance to settle on a new planet? Probably not great. The scientists behind this grand plan have taken precautions against this. The emotions of all the youth on board are kept in check by a chemical drink. Until Christopher and Zac discover the purpose of the drink and cease its mandatory intake. Their emotions are unleashed, disrupting the peace on the ship. When the rest of the 30-member group of youths also stops taking the drink, things spiral out of control.
The children were not completely left to their own devices. There is also a supervisor, Richard (played by Colin Farrell), on board to prevent the children from completely fending for themselves. Due to an incident in space, Richard dies, leaving the large group of teenagers with newfound emotions alone on the ship. What follows bears a striking resemblance to William Golding’s story. In Lord of the Flies, children were left to fend for themselves on a deserted island, and they had to survive. Appointing a leader in a group where multiple characters clash brings out the worst in humanity. Add the sexual tensions of puberty and a space journey, and the story of Voyagers is crafted.
Unoriginal Story, Yet Entertaining
Despite clear copies of other science fiction stories, the film has something to offer. The new take on the Lord of the Flies-story in space with teenagers is original. As a result, the film is predictable but also entertaining. The strength of the script is then of lesser importance.
The young cast does its best to convey the fluctuating emotions of the teenagers. The young cast succeeds in this endeavor. But a fair amount of experience has traveled through space. With Tye Sheridan (Ready Player One and X-Men: Apocalypse) and Fionn Whitehead (Dunkirk and Black Mirror: Bandersnatch), these are not the least young actors to step into the shoes of the main characters.
The fact that Voyagers premiered directly on Prime Video was not the initial plan. However, due to the delayed global reopening of cinemas, this choice was made. While the film is well-suited for streaming, the special effects would have been better appreciated on the big screen. Nevertheless, Voyagers remains an entertaining film that prompts contemplation about the nature of humanity.
Voyagers (2021) – Prime Video
A crew of astronauts on a multi-generational mission descend into paranoia and madness, not knowing what is real or not.
Cast: Tye Sheridan, Fionn Whitehead, Lily-Rose Depp, Colin Farrell, e.a.
Director/Writer: Neil Burger
Studio: Lionsgate
