Today’s quick review: Next. Cris Johnson (Nic Cage) is a Vegas stage magician with a hidden talent: the ability to see several minutes into the future. But his life changes dramatically when two events happen at almost the same time. The first is that the FBI comes after Cris, hoping to use his ability to foil a dangerous terrorist plot. Cris wants nothing to do with them and goes on the run to protect his freedom. The second is that he discovers Liz Cooper (Jessica Biel), a woman whose presence allows him to see farther into the future. In order to explore their strange connection, Cris must first win her trust, all while staying one step ahead of the FBI.
Next is a competent sci-fi thriller based on a story by Philp K. Dick. Next represents science fiction in its purest form: an impossible premise played out logically over the course of a clever plot. Next makes great use of its premise to change up the normal thriller formula. Cris is not the typical action star. He has no special training, no extra resources, no advantage in skill or intelligence, but his ability allows him to game his situation through trial and error. This unusual premise gives Next a unique flavor the blends well with its more conventional thriller aspects.
Beyond its plot and premise, Next is sound but not outstanding. Nic Cage and Jessica Biel do a credible job as Cris and Liz, with believable decisions, understandable motivations, and real compatibility, if not chemistry. The plot has a few generic aspects that detract from the originality of the premise, keeping Next out of the ranks of the best sci-fi thrillers. The film also bogarts its action until later on. While what action there is is satisfying, a higher-budget, more action-oriented film could have done spectacular things with Cris’s power.
Watch Next when you are in the mood for a neat sci-fi flick with a strong plot, decent acting, and a touch of action. While not a standout film, Next delivers on its strong premise and makes no significant mistakes. Fans of the sci-fi genre will not want to miss it, while fans of decent-to-good thrillers should give it a shot as well. Skip it if you dislike Nic Cage, need a bit more action in your sci-fi, or dislike thriller story structures.
6.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for an interesting premise and reasonable execution.