The Mummy (2017) was a highly anticipated film that received mixed reviews after its release in June 2017. The movie marked the inception of a new shared universe for Universal Pictures, “Dark Universe,” which was to be composed of classic monster movies. The film’s storyline was a modern retelling of The Mummy franchise, which began with the release of Boris Karloff’s The Mummy in 1932.
The movie features Tom Cruise as Nick Morton, with Annabelle Wallis as Jenny Halsey, and Sofia Boutella in the role of Princess Ahmanet, also known as the mummy. It follows Nick Morton, who is tasked with transporting the mummy to London but uncovers the truth about the curse of the mummy, bringing back the ancient princess to life.
The film was met with mixed reviews, with many critics stating that it lacks both the charm and thrills of the original films. However, some viewers still enjoy the fast-paced, action-packed narrative that brings modern-day technology to an age-old genre.
The film’s electronic, soundtrack, designed by Brian Tyler, combines traditional orchestral music with industrial sounds to create an eerie mood throughout the film. As we see the evil Ahmanet slowly, terrorizing everyone around her, the score plays a significant role in heightening the sense of terror and threat that she posed.
While the 2017 version of The Mummy moves away from the classic horror portrayal of The Mummy, the movie’s creators have made an effort to include elements of the original franchise to please traditional horror fans. They also interweave humor and give the film a slightly lighter tone than previous renditions. Still, it doesn’t detract from the rather dark, ominous atmosphere of the movie.
The Mummy (2017) is one of the few efforts to revamp a classic franchise without becoming too involved in its past or straying too far from fan expectations. There was an understandable fear among the filmmakers that the movie would get lost in the attempts to set up a shared universe, which ultimately hamstrung the script.
Tom Cruise, who was instrumental in pushing for the inclusion of stunts, delivers impressive performances throughout the movie, making for a genuinely exhilarating experience. But despite Cruise’s talent, it simply isn’t much of an equal measure to the original Mummy film’s famed performances from Karloff and Bela Lugosi. That said, the special effects and action sequences were competent and well-executed, generating a unique experience.
In conclusion, The Mummy (2017) is a film that attempted to modernize an iconic franchise that’s been a fan favorite since the 1930s. It’s not perfect, nor is it as compelling as its predecessors. It did, however, offer viewers an action-packed film that sent its audience on a roller coaster of thrilling scenes. Ultimately, The Mummy (2017) provides audiences with some fun, albeit shallow, entertainment that should be taken with a light heart. The Dark Universe initiative may have stalled, but the movie has something to offer for those looking for a good time at the cinema.