Today’s quick review: Ares. In a dystopian Paris run by pharmaceutical corporations, Ares (Ola Rapace), a washed-up pit fighter, receives a second chance at success when Donevia, a company known for its lethal human testing, approaches him with a new performance-enhancing drug. With his sister in jail and two nieces to support, Ares has no choice but to accept the risky treatment.
Ares is a French dystopian science fiction movie set in a future where anything can be bought and sold. Ares features a bleak tone, a short but tidy story, and a few brutal fight scenes. The movie is an odd blend of sports comeback and dystopian drama, although it is missing the triumphant tone of the former and the rebellious spirit of the latter. In spite of its competent execution, Ares lacks the extra punch needed to be exciting or memorable.
Ares shows more thought than the typical movie of its caliber. The world it presents is disturbingly close to reality, separated from the present only by economic collapse and looser regulation of drugs and human testing. The characters are not brilliant, but they are resourceful and avoid making any obvious errors. Ares himself is an interesting figure, neither a blind idealist nor a pure mercenary in a world that wants him to pick a side.
Give Ares a shot if you are in the mood for a short, serious peek at one possible future. Ares’ dark subject matter and limited plot make it an unexceptional watch, but the movie shows enough quality to be a worthwhile pick for the curious. Skip it if you are looking for unfettered action or successful drama. For a more elaborate dystopian drama with better writing, check out Children of Men.
6.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 for a good setting and decent execution.