Film Review: Jumper

By now I am sure everyone has seen the trailer multiple times for the new movie Jumper. Just as advertised, it is about people who can teleport across the globe. This concept is the single driving force of the film. The question is whether or not this concept alone can make Jumper worth your time.

My expectations going into Jumper were very limited even though the trailer made the film look like a very exciting ride. I anticipated a film with a simple story, cool effects, and not much more than that. It turns out I got exactly what I was expecting, and in this case that is a good thing.

The reason I say that is because many people who are going to be disappointed by Jumper are going to be because they went in with the wrong mindset. It is not a complex science fiction thriller like The Matrix. Neither is it a fast and furious action and explosion thrill ride. Jumper lands somewhere in between the two, almost as an opening act to one or the other. Apparently the movie is planned to be the first in a trilogy so I think that is an even more apt description.

Jumper can be classified this way due to its lack of depth…well, anywhere. The story is flimsy and clearly not the focus. Sure, it can be followed, but it is merely a track on which the special effects flow. Details are skipped over and with good reason in my opinion. Why waste twenty minutes deciphering “scientifically” why jumpers can teleport? We know pretty much all we need to about his ability from the trailer alone, so I appreciated the movie skipping to the good parts so to speak.

The acting however is not one of the good parts. Hayden Christensen and Rachel Bilson are both terrible at it, but they are adequate enough for this type of film. Also, who does not enjoy Samuel L. Jackon with white hair and a knife? But, these roles are secondary when compared with the action and special effects.

Where Jumper may lack depth, it prides itself on presentation. The style of the movie is excellent, and the “jump” special effects are a lot of fun. The sound and intensity on every jump never gets old, which is essential since it is done so much. The locations that they jump to are varied and interesting also. I really enjoyed the score, which sounded oddly familiar. When I found it that it was directed by Doug Liman, it all made sense. He directed The Bourne Identity, and for whatever reason the sound throughout Jumper was very similar. It has an edgy-techno feel, but it just added to the experience.

And that is what Jumper is all about: fun. If you let it get to you that some things do not make sense, you are going to miss out on enjoying yourself. Jumper is a nerd’s dream, because there are so many inconsistencies and questions that several points could be argued about for hours (in between Star Trek marathons). Take my advice and do not be a nerd about the movie. Sit back, let logic go, and enjoy it. It is a simple ninety-minute popcorn film, and if the plot is expanded on in a sequel it will get even better.

6.5/10