Total Recall

I quite liked the 1990 version of Total Recall with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Thus I was somewhat concerned whether or not I would like this one since it would be impossible for me to watch it without comparing it to “the original”. Well, luckily, I did like it. I think the 1990 version is still my favourite but I did indeed like this one as well. It is said that this movie follows the original story better than the 1990 version. I wouldn’t know since I have not read it. Both are good stories with the same central idea although I have to say that the 1990 version of the story felt a wee bit more “grand” than this one. This movie is, of course, more modern in that the special effects are more up to 2012 standards. Having said that I think the funny idea of going through earth’s core in a tunnel through the planet is way more far-fetched than actually going to Mars and, although the gravity reversal was a good idea in itself, the instant on/off effect was just ridiculous. Obviously no scientific experts where hired for this movie. The 1990 version had a lot of action in it and this one doesn’t disappoint in that area. Actually, the entire film is pretty much one long action chase and a pretty well done at that. One gripe I have though is that I felt that Quaid was a bit on the wimpy side. But then, that probably comes from comparing with the Schwarzenegger “original”. So the bottom line is that I quite liked it, It’s a good solid action movie, but it didn’t de-throne the 1990 version.

mooney240

Aug 19, 2022

8/10

**Overall : A fantastic sci-fi action film that is much better than its reviews imply.** While based on the original Total Recall starring Arnold Schwarzenegger film from 1990, Total Recall (2012) differs in many ways. The tone is more serious and less zany than the first. The setting is on Earth rather than Mars, and the ending is left a little less ambiguous than the first. These differences caused mixed reviews, mostly from fans of the original. However, I enjoyed this film much more than the original! The acting and effects were much improved, and the action sequences were amazingly well done. Total Recall (2012) is more straightforward of a sci-fi action movie than its predecessor, but I find that a strength rather than a fault.