Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire (2023) [Movie review]

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire stands tall as a captivating and visually stunning cinematic experience. Directed by the visionary Zack Snyder, this 2023 film takes audiences on an enthralling journey to a distant moon where a peaceful settlement faces the ominous threat of a tyrannical ruling force. With its action-packed sequences, compelling storyline, and an all-star cast, Rebel Moon leaves a lasting impact on the genre and sets the stage for future installments.

Rebel Moon is Snyder’s Star Wars as much Starcrash was for Italian Cinema

With Zack Snyder at the helm, known for his previous works such as “Army of the Dead” and “Watchmen,” Rebel Moon continues his legacy of pushing boundaries and creating visually stunning worlds. But, does it matter in the streaming era? It’s something to consider when talking about big Sci-Fi epics that will be primarily consumed on smaller screens.

This film draws inspiration from Akira Kurosawa’s iconic Seven Samurai (1954). Snyder’s homage to this timeless classic adds depth and complexity to the story, showcasing his appreciation for the art of filmmaking and his ability to weave together elements of the past and the present.

There should be more

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire is the first installment in an eagerly anticipated series. This film sets the stage for future chapters (well, at least one more) that promise to delve deeper into the saga. As viewers immerse themselves in this captivating universe, they are left craving more of the thrilling adventures to come. The film’s success paves the way for a new era of science fiction storytelling, where the boundaries of imagination are pushed to their limits.

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire has garnered immense attention since its recent release. Audiences and critics alike have been captivated by the film’s visually stunning cinematography, gripping storyline, and exceptional performances from the cast.

Snyder is a visual filmmaker

One of the most striking aspects of Rebel Moon is its breathtaking visuals. Zack Snyder’s meticulous attention to detail and his visionary approach to filmmaking are evident in every frame. From the otherworldly landscapes to the intricately designed sets, Rebel Moon transports viewers to a visually immersive and awe-inspiring universe.

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire weaves a compelling narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film explores themes of resistance, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. As the peaceful settlement on the distant moon fights for survival against an oppressive ruling force, a mysterious stranger emerges as their beacon of hope. The intricate storytelling and well-developed characters make for an engaging and emotionally resonant experience.

An interlude: Something for the long timers

Too many film critics take pot shots at Snyder for legit and plenty non legit reasons. But, let’s be honest here about “The Cuts”. If you have to keep promising a better future cut of your work, then what were you doing in the first place?

Some might call it the Ridley Scott Dilemma or the George Lucas paradox, but it’s an issue facing artists of all statures. At what point do you just let your projects stand on their own. The Anti Snyder crowd is never going to like what you do regardless of aspect ratio or length of film. They just hate that an opposing team makes up the Snyder audience and is diametrically opposed to their way of existing.

So, when you can’t make a cut of a film on the first swing that appeals to the Snyder die-hards, then who was it for and what does say about the auteur? I’m sure Netflix made the needed rating and other concerns well-known before production start. Even given studio parameters, many classics have been made within these guidelines.

I mean, I would like to see It’s A Wonderful Life’s original ending where they murdered Mr. Potter, but for now settle for a clip as we return to the praise.

Back to appreciating Snyder’s latest

Rebel Moon boasts an exceptional ensemble cast that brings the characters to life with their remarkable performances. Sofia Boutella, Charlie Hunnam, and Ed Skrein deliver captivating portrayals, immersing themselves fully into their respective roles. Their chemistry and depth of character add layers of complexity to the story, creating a truly immersive cinematic experience.

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire breathes new life into the science fiction genre, standing alongside other iconic films that have left an indelible mark on audiences. Its compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes place it in the esteemed company of films like “Message from Space”, “Battle Beyond The Stars” and “Krull”. Rebel Moon is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to transport viewers to fantastical worlds beyond imagination.

Let’s get real about Rebel Moon for a minute.

I am 50/50 on Zack Snyder as a director, but damn if I don’t love his panache. For those that have read the site for awhile, I don’t care for online Film Twitter politics and their shallow garbage. I care about this proud continuum of film and the people that continue to feed it.

That being said, I’m not sure if I can consider Rebel Moon as being essential enough to warrant a tremendous amount of praise. But, I appreciate the hell out of it. What does that mean, you might ask? Well, consider issues of scale, timing and presentation.

The hamburger has been made, but people continue to try improve upon it time and time again. You might find things you like in an altered presentation, while other people will vomit at the idea of Cilantro being on a burger. Still, you eat it. Why? Because it’s there and it’s the latest in a long of burgers you’re going to eat before your heart explodes.

I eat burgers, while I watch Armond White go to bat for underappreciated greatness

For those that haven’t read John Demetry’s Letterboxed review of Rebel Moon, go read the review here. I checked it out after the recommendation from Armond White and I was confused at first and then entertained by Demetry’s take on the film. My own take has changed rapidly between the two screenings I had of Rebel Moon and it will inevitably improve upon a third viewing.

While it might seem the case with a great amount of the film fans on Twitter and other places, I don’t watch films to hate them. I watch in the way a historian or cultural archivist might survey them. It’s a battle to find the good, the great and the hidden gems. To actively attack anything in the arena on its surface and dismiss with prejudice to set the fires that burn the books and other recordings of the world.

That doesn’t mean you can’t hate things or barely dislike them. In fact, continue to hate movies. In that hatred, the intelligent will find answers and mine deeper truths about themselves. From there you can understand your response to art and work out what appeals to you. But, what do I know? I just finished my fourth burger of the day.

Snyder makes certain people uncomfortable and for some reason that tickles the hell out of me

We live in a complacent age of people confusing checkmark activism for having anything to say about culture. As a viewer of cultural affairs, you will see examples from MCU fans bashing Scorsese to supposedly enlightened Neoliberals decrying hints of sexuality in Oppenheimer. We live in a time where the cultural horseshoe theory is careening on the same track into a decade long trainwreck.

There is something to everyone of Snyder’s films from Dawn of the Dead to 300 to Watchmen to Sucker Punch and even Army of the Dead that sticks in my brain after finishing it. It’s the same vibe I get after watching similar masculine energy auteurs in marathon sessions. While I enjoy it, I can see how it can be alienating to newer viewers trained to reject that sensibility.

But even if taught rejection, any viewer will choose to embrace whatever speaks to them. No one can control that and repression of artistic enjoyment gets no one anywhere. So, where does that leave us in relation to Rebel Moon after such a lengthy tirade?

Other than that, how was the play?

The Holiday Season is spent in my realm watching Year-End Award bait on repeat to meet self-imposed deadlines before the clock expires. Yet, I’m watching Maestro for a third time and trying to pin down my feelings on Rebel Moon. In the split between both movies, something speaks to me.

Snyder isn’t an emotional or even super humane director. You don’t need a director to hold your hand through everything, but such a restriction in this era is met with disdain. Why? Well, because to exist in the culture is to wear your beliefs on your sleeve and state every intention like a giant trigger warning to an ever shifting horde.

Zack Snyder makes movies for the sake of making movies. Artificial epics that contains hints of his beliefs as an individual, an artist and a stylist. Sometimes, you don’t need a soapbox to make laser gun and fantasy movies. But, don’t ask me…I just eat burgers and watch the Mouse House stock ticker with a bottle of Tums.

Some final thoughts

Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire is the Sci-Fi epic leg of Snyder’s cinematic journey. With Zack Snyder’s visionary direction and a talented ensemble cast, the film solidifies its place in the science fiction genre. As the first installment in an eagerly anticipated series, Rebel Moon sets the stage for a thrilling and immersive cinematic saga. Whether you are a fan of science fiction or simply appreciate the power of storytelling, Rebel Moon is a must-watch film that leaves a lasting impact….if you let it.

Rebel Moon was in select theaters and is now streaming on Netflix