In the realm of science fiction cinema, a recent resurgence of commentary surrounding the film After Earth, starring Will Smith and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, has surfaced, particularly among VFX professionals. Smith’s illustrious acting career took flight with his iconic role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, subsequently leading to numerous acclaimed performances in films such as Men in Black, The Pursuit of Happyness, and the biographical drama Ali. Notably, his portrayal of Richard Williams in 2021’s King Richard earned him the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor.
Smith has also left an indelible mark on the sci-fi genre with hits like Independence Day, I, Robot, and I Am Legend. Similarly, M. Night Shyamalan gained fame for his contributions to horror and science fiction, achieving critical acclaim with films such as The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, and Signs. However, Shyamalan’s career has seen fluctuations, particularly following the backlash against his 2010 adaptation of The Last Airbender. His subsequent films have resulted in mixed reviews and only moderate box office performance.
The VFX Community Weighs In on After Earth
A Disappointing Reception for the 2013 Film
In 2013, Smith and Shyamalan teamed up for After Earth, a film set in a dystopian future where they portray a father-son duo who crash land on Earth. Alongside the Smiths, the film stars Sophie Okonedo, Zoë Kravitz, David Denman, and Glenn Morshower. Despite grossing over $243 million globally, the film has been critically mauled, currently holding a mere 12% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, alongside a disappointing 36% audience score.
In a recent reaction video by Corridor Crew, the VFX team expressed astonishment over certain creative decisions, particularly a sequence where light is shot into space. Lead commentator Pueringer shared a poignant remark regarding Shyamalan’s struggles in the industry, stating:
M. Night has been ripped on so much in his life. Like, I just want to give him a hug. And let’s be real, if I had to make this film, After Earth, it’d probably be worse than this.
Watch the full reaction herehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_t0ONKeldc
Analyzing the Special Effects of After Earth
Assessment: Not the Most Damaging Factors
The insights shared by the Corridor Crew highlight a nuanced appreciation for the film’s visual effects, suggesting that while there were commendable components, overall negative impressions overshadowed them. Improving the CGI in select scenes may not have been sufficient to change the film’s trajectory. As a result, After Earth remains one of the least favorable collaborations between Shyamalan and Smith, yet both continue to find success in various creative ventures.
Source: Corridor Crew/YouTube