Uncharted | Director: Ruben Fleischer | Rating: 9/11 |
Let’s get something out of the way right now: Previous knowledge of the Uncharted video games is not needed to enjoy the heck out of this delightful and surprising action adventure film. In fact, Uncharted is a shining example of what most video game movies wish they could be. While you might get an extra kick out of the puzzles or smile at the nod to the original Nathan Drake, you won’t be missing anything crucial to the plot.
For those that are unfamiliar with the games, here’s some more backstory. Uncharted, the film, is the story of street-smart Nathan Drake (Tom Holland) who is recruited by Victor Sullivan (Mark Wahlberg) to embark on the greatest treasure hunt of Drake’s life, and maybe find Drake’s long lost brother at the same time. For this particular adventure the quest is to find Ferdinand Magellan’s lost treasure of gold. The film is based on a series of video games created by Amy Hennig centering around Nathan Drake, a treasure hunter who travels across the world to uncover various historical mysteries. Basically you’re looking at an Indiana Jones-type whose set off on a Captain Jack Sparrow type of adventure that’s more in line with National Treasure.
Now let’s talk about Tom Holland. First off, the chemistry between Mark Wahlberg and Tom Holland is exquisite. We’re talking about a duo that’s on par with Lethal Weapon here. The kind of greatness that demands further exploration in, dare I say, many sequels. There’s also plenty of thirst traps and fan service for the Hollanders of the world. However, the real discussion point here is Tom’s ability to take on this action hero role and set it apart from his other superhero alter-ego delivering something fresh and just as authentic.
The film itself possesses the perfect mix of archaeological exploration, mystery, action, humor and suspense. Operating more like a heist film (with rather forgettable antagonists), while delivering historical factoids as they solve fictitious legends, Uncharted is fun from beginning to end. Chart a course to your local theater to watch Uncharted starting February 18th, 2022 (and if possible, view it in 4DX). You’ll want to catch these stunts and gorgeous filming locations on the big screen.