In Time

Science-fiction is a bit of a marmite thing for me. Some science-fiction is fantastic, others can be dull, tedious and lacking in the sense department. In Time is most definitely the latter.

The film is set in 2061 where humans have evolved to stop ageing when they reach 25. Once they've reached 25, people acquire time either through work or other means and everything is measured by the digital clock on each person's arm.

Essentially time is the currency and when you've run out of time, you die. Time can be given or taken by anyone through a special type of handshake.

Will Salas (Justin Timberlake) is 28 years old and lives with his mother Rachel (Olivia Wilde) who is 50. They survive on a day-to-day basis thanks to Will's job in a factory.

On a night out, Salas saves Henry Hamilton (Matt Bomer) who is 105, from a local gangster who is after the time remaining on his clock. Hamilton reveals that the reason that everything becomes more expensive is so the rich can stockpile time and live forever. He then gives Salas his remaining time and commits suicide by 'timing out'. Timekeeper Raymond Leon (Cillian Murphy) is sent to investigate the death and tracks down Salas.

With the extra time he was given, Salas decides to visit other time zones designated for people who can afford them. He ends up in a casino with a time-loaning businessman Phillipe Weis (Vincent Kartheiser) who invites him to a party he is hosting after being impressed with how Salas won a bet.

Salas meets Weis's daughter Sylvia (Amanda Seyfried) and tells her about the life he used to lead which leads her to consider changing her own lifestyle.

Whilst at the party, Leon traces Salas to the party and attempts to arrest him. Salas, realising that he would be blamed for the death of Hamilton, takes Sylvia hostage and this leads to a 'Robin Hood' style turn of events.

I shall start with the two good things about this film: The first is the concept. The idea that time replaces money is interesting and throws up all different possibilities. The second is Seyfried's ability to constantly run in 6-inch heels. Truly amazing...

The bad things: I do not know where to start... 

Firstly, the cast. Timberlake is truly appalling, more wooden than a garden shed and shows just about as much emotion as one. The scene where he mourns a loved one is laughable to say the least. He just isn't a leading man. Seyfried is no better, she can just about muster her lines and pout at the camera. There is absolutely zero chemistry between the two. Even Murphy looked ashamed and bored in this film.

Secondly, the story makes no sense whatsoever. It lacks any engagement with the audience and you really do not care about any of the characters.  

Thirdly, the visual style is dull, un-cinematic and there are too many car chases which have very little relevance or impact on the story.

Fourthly, it is clichéd within an inch of it's life and has constant references to time which are idiotic. 

Fifthly, the script is unbelievably clunky and just so lacking in anything that it's incredible the film got made.

Believe me I could go on...

Verdict: Simply the worst film I have seen this year. Your life will poorer for seeing this film...