Confession: I actively went out of my way to avoid this film for several years. The moment my interest was peaked I had unfortunately come across a headline that read something to the effect of “Snowpiercer is too smart for American audiences – they’ll never understand it.” The book of which the movie is based on is of French origin. Sometimes what works in one culture doesn’t always work in another. With that mentality, I took the headline at its word. After all, who really would want to invest two hours of their life to basically feel stupid. Plus it probably doesn’t help that I type cast Chris Evans forever as Captain America. I mean, come on, the dude is Captain America.

Snowpiercer stars Evans in this post-apocalyptic thriller about a world set eighteen years after the second ice age. The entire population of what remains of the world is confided within an extremely long train. Curtis, played by Evans, has come up with a plan for a revolution to take over the engine and stop the slave-like conditions of some of its’ passengers. As previously mentioned, Chris Evans has always been Captain America to me. Perhaps, even as you’re reading this now or listening to our episode on the movie, you’re in that same boat. Evans completely disappears within the brokenness of his character, Curtis. Turning in one of the best performances of his career. Crafting a truly emotional, broken and driven individual hellbent on change. The courage it takes to walk that road alone is powerful. I feel as though there is not enough words in the human language to describe how good Evans is within this movie. I mean, I’m sure there is but it would just be the same idea recycled.

As if Evans’ wasn’t strong enough on his own, he is surrounded with quite the strength of cast mates. John Hurt, Tilda Swinton, Jamie Bell, Octavia Spencer, Kang-ho Song, and the villainous Ed Harris – make up the impressive backbone of this dystopian word. For as grand as the world of Snowpiercer is and feels, there are a ton of quiet character moments that drive the emotional foundation of the film further. Scenes between Evans and Hurt or Evans and Harris. Perhaps though one of the best moments within the film exists between Evans and Song. The two share a rather endearing moment of character development towards the film’s climax. Just a few moments prior to the introduction of Harris’ antagonist, Wilford.

In some ways, Snowpiercer feels like the cousin to the Blade Runner films. It is a smart sci-fic film that in a dystopian future with beautiful sets, a strong array of color palettes, and a stellar evolution. The pacing and building within this world is truly remarkable. Viewers are taken on a wild ride as we invade countless carts and experience countless cultures within this train. It’s truly one of the most impressive things about this movie. Continuously pouring into the grand nature of this film.

Overall, Snowpiercer, is a prime example of how deep and well-balanced a science fiction can be. Led by sheer brilliance thanks to Chris Evans and backed by impressive cast including John Hurt, Ed Harris and more – Snowpiercer is a film not to be missed at all. Beautifully building itself with strong pacing, beautiful character designs and a world of wonder. This is one film, whether you’re a fan of the genre or not, you need to see. Beautifully crafted and deep with its themes, Snowpiercer is an immaculate piece of cinema.

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Credits: Music by Beggars. Snowpiercer is property of The Weinstein Company. We do not ow nor claim any rights.