John Krasinski and Natalie Portman’s Fountain of Youth: A Treasure Hunt Unfulfilled
An Ambitious Premise
The latest film from Guy Ritchie, Fountain of Youth, attempts a thrilling blend reminiscent of classics like National Treasure and The Mummy. Starring John Krasinski and Natalie Portman as siblings on a quest for legendary treasures, the concept itself seems promising. However, does this pairing provide the excitement we crave?
A Sibling Adventure with Room for Improvement
On paper, the idea of Krasinski and Portman as a brother-sister duo of tomb raiders is refreshingly original. In a genre saturated with romantic partners or solo adventurers, the familial connection offers a new dynamic. Yet somehow, Fountain of Youth falters where it should soar.
Lack of Urgency and Depth
Unfortunately, the film suffers from a disconcerting lack of urgency. Characterization feels flat, and the banter seldom elicits laughter. The stakes never feel high enough, leaving viewers longing for a more gripping experience. While Ritchie’s production spans exotic locales—from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the historic landscapes of Egypt—the effort feels underwhelming, offering little more than a slight snack instead of a hearty meal.
A Chaotic Opening
The film commences with Krasinski’s character, Luke Purdue, escaping pursuers on a scooter, a classic action movie trope. Here, he juggles stolen artwork and a chaotic escape route, but the lack of finesse in execution becomes obvious. Enter Eiza González as a mysterious tracker, whose motivations are as twisted as the plotline.
Blurring the Lines Between Family and Adventure
As Luke escapes, he heads to London to coax his sister Charlotte (played by Portman) back into the thrill of their family’s past escapades. Charlotte, now a curator at the National Gallery, is reluctant to re-enter this world of thefts and treasures. When Luke steals a precious Rembrandt from her, his yet-unreliable charm is put to the test.
The Quest for Immortality
The duo, alongside Carmen Ejogo, finds themselves embroiled in a treasure hunt for clues hidden within masterpieces, aiming to locate the elusive Fountain of Youth. Funded by Owen Carver (a spirited Domhnall Gleeson), who is facing a race against time due to terminal illness, the narrative begins to pick up steam but remains derivative and predictable.
Plot Twists and Turns
From the wreck of the Lusitania to the labyrinth of the Austrian National Library, the film attempts to elevate the tension, but each twist feels more like a cliché than a surprise. Charlotte’s struggles with the risks involved in the journey are palpable, yet her internal conflicts lack the depth required to resonate with the audience fully.
Misfired Character Development
Krasinski, usually a charismatic presence, loses his charm in this role. Managing the line between being a likable rogue and an irritating protagonist seems daunting; at times, it feels more like the latter. Portman, too, struggles with a script that does not showcase her talents effectively, often relegated to repetitive humor that doesn’t land.
Climax and Resolution
As the narrative unfolds, the film descends into a chaotic third act, with both gunfire and special effects vying for attention. The absurdity of it all detracts from the ground-level stakes established in earlier scenes. With a tonal mismatch palpable in the climax, it’s hard to discern whether the film aims for a PG rating or an R.
Final Thoughts
For viewers who grew up in the ‘90s, Fountain of Youth might evoke nostalgia. Yet with today’s abundance of quality streaming options, this film feels less like a treasure and more akin to a forgotten trinket. It’s hard to believe many will find it as engaging as intended.
Grade: C
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