Edge Of Tomorrow Review

Edge Of Tomorrow is the latest film from veteran director Doug Liman, best known for The Bourne Identity series.  Edge Of Tomorrow's story is adapted from the Japanese graphic novel All You Need Is Kill.  It can be boiled down and described as Groundhog Day meets Starship Troopers.  Earth's forces invade the beaches of Normandy to repel an alien invasion.  A highly advanced alien race invades earth and is poised to take over in a decisive victory over mankind when a complex phenomenon takes place that allows Lt. Col. Bill Cage to reset time upon his death while maintaining his memories and experiences.  War hero Emily Blunt once had this power but lost it.   When she discovers that Lt. Col. Cage has acquired this ability she helps train him to defeat the alien invasion.  Together they become mankind's last hope for survival.

This is a big step up from Tom Cruise's last film, Oblivion.   Tom Cruise is much more sympathetic and interesting in this role as Lt. Col. Bill Cage, a soldier who must learn to fight.  Emily Blunt is very good as his mentor, helping to train him.  Everyone involved does some of their best work and the performances raise the bar and remind us that science fiction rolls can be strong.  Everyone is excellent including Bill Paxton in his roll as a no nonsense Sargent who's mission it is to make Bill's life hell.  There is a certain amount of levity,  perhaps too much to take the film very seriously.  The film is thoroughly and consistently entertaining.  An interesting premise and excellent cast work together to create an exciting and fun action film.

Edge Of Tomorrow will be release Jun 6, 2014 and is rated PG-13 for violence and language.  It is suitable for most teenagers.

Burn, Rent, or Buy?   Edge Of Tomorrow is a Buy.


Update:  Edge Of Tomorrow was released today, June 6, 2014, the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day Invasion.  Sincere thanks to the real soldiers that fought on the beaches that day 70 years ago.