What’s Behind the Buzz?
The recent surge in interest around Tom Hanks and Robin Wright has been sparked by their collaboration in the new film Here, directed by Robert Zemeckis. With over 5,000 searches and counting, the buzz is largely due to the buzz around the reunion of the Forrest Gump stars and the use of controversial de-aging technology in the film—a subject that has garnered mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike.
Both Hanks and Wright are iconic actors in their own right, and the prospect of seeing them together again on screen after nearly three decades has piqued the curiosity of moviegoers. But it’s not just the reunion that’s generating chatter. Here is also an ambitious project, tackling complex themes of time and space, all while experimenting with cutting-edge visual effects. However, some critics argue that the film’s innovative techniques may not have paid off as expected.
The Context: Why Here Is a Big Deal
Here is a film adaptation of Richard McGuire’s graphic novel, which tells a story that takes place entirely in one room but spans across multiple time periods. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, known for his groundbreaking work on films like Forrest Gump and Back to the Future, Here explores the concept of time and memory within a confined space, juxtaposing various events from different eras.
The movie's premise is intriguing, but what makes it even more remarkable is the reunion of Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, who last worked together in the 1994 classic Forrest Gump. Their chemistry in that film is legendary, and fans are eager to see if they can recreate that magic in Here.
Critical Reception: What Are the Critics Saying?
While the reunion of Hanks and Wright has excited many, the critical reception to Here has been decidedly mixed. Some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the film’s execution, particularly its heavy reliance on de-aging technology.
In IGN’s review of Here, the film is described as lacking in substance, with its visual gimmicks overshadowing the narrative. The reviewer notes that the single camera angle through which the story unfolds feels limiting rather than innovative. Despite the star power and Zemeckis' reputation for pushing cinematic boundaries, Here is criticized for failing to provide compelling reasons to watch beyond its experimental nature.
Variety’s review echoes similar sentiments, pointing out that the de-aging technology used to make Hanks and Wright appear younger feels "appalling" and detracts from the emotional core of the film. The reviewer argues that the focus on visual effects overshadows the performances and the story itself. Instead of enhancing the film, the technology is seen as a distraction that prevents viewers from becoming fully immersed in the narrative. As a result, the film's ambitious thematic elements—such as the passage of time and the interconnectedness of human experiences—are left underdeveloped.
Robin Wright on Reuniting with Hanks and Zemeckis
Despite the mixed reviews, Robin Wright has expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with her Forrest Gump co-stars and director. In a recent interview with TODAY, Wright spoke fondly of the opportunity to work with Hanks and Zemeckis again. She described the experience as "coming full circle" after nearly 30 years since Forrest Gump's release, and highlighted the strong bond that was formed during their previous collaboration.
Wright also praised the film’s unique concept and Zemeckis' vision, acknowledging the challenges of working with new technology. While she didn’t specifically address the criticisms surrounding the de-aging effects, she emphasized the emotional depth of the story and the importance of exploring themes like memory and time.
The De-Aging Debate: A Technological Gamble
One of the most talked-about aspects of Here is the use of de-aging technology, which has been a growing trend in Hollywood over the past few years. In Here, Zemeckis uses this technology to make both Hanks and Wright appear younger in certain scenes, as the film spans various time periods. However, many critics are finding that the technology has not yet reached a level of seamlessness required to avoid being a distraction.
While Zemeckis is no stranger to pioneering advancements in visual effects—having previously pushed boundaries in films like The Polar Express—many feel that the de-aging in Here falls short. The Variety review suggests that the technology is "appalling" and detracts from the film’s emotional core, making it difficult for audiences to engage with the characters on a deeper level.
Conclusion: A Reunion with Mixed Results
The reunion of Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in Here has certainly generated excitement, but the film’s reception has been less than stellar. While the premise of the film is intriguing and the star power undeniable, critics argue that the technical execution—particularly the de-aging technology—has overshadowed what could have been a memorable cinematic experience. For fans of Forrest Gump and those curious about cinematic experimentation, Here may still be worth watching, but it’s clear that not everyone is on board with Zemeckis' latest gamble.