'Gemini Man' Review: Clones, Not Clowns, Rule

To talk about Gemini Man is to talk about Ang Lee's ongoing journey in making 120-frames-per-second film-making a trend in the world of cinema, or at least, in his world. Pioneering this technique on his 2016 military drama Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk, it lapsed to eye-catching but divisive reception. But obviously, it did not stop Lee from pursuing it.

Instead, he ventures with an explosive and action-packed material, not necessarily turning his back from what he's used to shooting. After all, one of his films was Hulk. But it's certainly a change from his emotion-filled film streak.

Photo Credit: United International Pictures

Gemini Man stars Will Smith as Henry Brogan, a first-class assassin ready to retire but was suddenly chased by a young operative leading them to a global game of cat and mouse like any other action movie in recent years. The twist is they seemingly could predict each other's move. Smith is joined by Mary Elizabeth Winstead who showed minor action skills, Benedict Wong as Smith's sidekick, and Clive Owen, a former Marine officer seeking to create his own military organization of elite soldiers through clones.

Gemini Man put clones in a nutshell, simplifying a complex idea in ways that are not necessarily new plot-wise. Not surprising considering that Lee has been eyeing this material for years and many films about clones have passed before this was even conceived. What stands out from other clone films, however, is Lee's continuous conception of fresh ideas to the way we see movies. It's really admirable considering he's been doing extraordinary things in what's typically viewed as usual film-making. Unfortunately, it doesn't always work especially the de-aging CGI effects. But the intention is very much appreciated. That's why, as cliche as this sounds, this should be watched the way Ang Lee intended it to be seen.

Photo Credit: United International Pictures

Seeing this in 120 FPS and in 3D or in the most immersive way possible would make the experience worth it. It's truly an experience and I seriously believe that Lee has given new meaning to the word cinematic. There are standout scenes that I haven't seen, experienced rather, in a cinema before even if the scenes include a usual motorcycle chase scene, or the leads running away from a thousand bullets. They're astonishing.

Apart from its action, it's about humanity--what's humane and inhumane about the process. But that's only a footnote from this movie and putting meaning to an obvious film about techniques and choreography, both cinematography and stunts, might even be a reach. This is sad because Ang Lee used to make films that bring out emotions in his audience even in his first effort in utilizing the technology. Gemini Man might seem to be the most immersive and hyper-realistic, but it's also the most emotionally distant.