Robert Heinlein’s short story ‘All You Zombies’ serves as the foundation for ‘Predestination,’ a notably inventive film noir that elevates the science fiction genre into an alluring and complex experience. The Spierig Brothers, Michael and Peter, skillfully direct and adapt Heinlein's material into a twisting narrative filled with suspense. It was reported that Heinlein crafted this intriguing story in a single day late in the 1950s; regardless of the truth behind that claim, ‘Predestination’ proves to be a compelling time travel film worthy of comparison to Rian Johnson’s inventive 2012 spectacle, ‘Looper.’ The Spierig Brothers and Ethan Hawke, who received Oscar nominations for ‘Training Day’ and ‘Boyhood,’ collaborate on this surreal movie detailing the mission of a Temporal Agent posing as a barkeep, The Bartender (Hawke), attempting to prevent crimes before they occur. While the Spierigs previously explored themes of zombies and vampires in films like ‘Undead’ and ‘Daybreakers,’ they curiously avoid those elements here despite the inspiration drawn from ‘All You Zombies.’ Perhaps this allows them to focus on the more intricate science fiction aspects of human experience within shifting dimensions of time, place, and space. The narrative's complex elements work together due to the macabre mission undertaken by The Bartender and the female writer known as ‘The Unmarried Mother’ (Sarah Snook). The agent Bartender represents a shadowy government organization with the power to fight crime through time travel. However, this method of preventing crime has not always been smooth, and rampant corruption within the Agency adds pressure to its ability to address dangerous plots. ‘Predestination’ unfolds as an enigmatic puzzle where encounters with distorted realities are both wondrous and unsettling. The Bartender, already a victimized pawn in the schemes surrounding New York City's elusive Fizzle Bomber, meets a stranger who challenges him to share the most outlandish story imaginable. This stranger (Snook), a columnist for ‘The Unmarried Mother,’ will become deeply intertwined with The Bartender’s destiny. ‘Predestination’ touches on unconventional themes ranging from violence to sexuality and offers commentary on these issues. The film skillfully portrays the vulnerabilities of suspicion, anxiety, and uncertainty within the intricate and playful framework of time travel management. Despite its understated special effects and science fiction trickery, ‘Predestination’ shines thanks to the committed performances by Hawke and Snook, who draw the audience into the story's captivating madness. In particular, Snook’s portrayal of ‘The Mother,’ a character embodying both male and female genders, takes viewers through nostalgic timelines while conveying toughness, vulnerability, and mystery. She has a backstory that contributes to the trials and tribulations surrounding the pursuit of the scheming Fizzle Bomber. Noah Taylor provides convincing support as Mr. Robertson, who plays a key role in Snook’s complex identity crisis. ‘Predestination’ possesses an old-fashioned, captivating quality that propels this time-traveling spectacle toward its ambitious conclusion. The film's modest production values are surprisingly engaging, and the combination of acting, directing, writing, and imagination proves to be a winning formula. Crisp cinematography, a soothing score, and vibrant set designs further enhance this actioner. Dark, moody, and visibly challenging, ‘Predestination’ gleefully twists its way into an inspired science fiction contemplation. Time certainly doesn't stand still, especially within the realm of Australian noir science fiction. Predestination (2014) Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions 1 hr. 37 mins. Starring: Ethan Hawke, Sarah Snook and Noah Taylor Directed by: Michael and Peter Spierig Rated: R Genre: Science Fiction/Time Travel thriller/Sci-Fi crime caper Critic’s rating: *** stars (out of four stars)

Source on TMDB