Review of Space Cadet Movie: A Disappointingly Poor Quirky Comedy Effort
Emma Roberts, well-known for her several parts in films like Scream Queens and The Blackcoat's Daughter, takes front stage in Space Cadet. Sadly, Roberts's best efforts are insufficient for the film's predictable plot and agonizing unfunny writing.
Emma Roberts's Space Cadet Performace
Roberts plays Rex Simpson, a woman who dreams of being an astronaut but must give up on her college plans upon the death of her mother. Following an encouraging high school reunion, Rex chooses to follow her dream and, with her best friend Nadine (Poppy Liu), gets into Nasa's astronaut training program. Roberts gives a lively and energetic performance, but the weak content of the movie finally limits her.
The Unfunny and Annoying Comedy of Space Cadet
Strange Comedy Gone Wrong
Space Cadet aims to bring a quirky and humorous attitude into Nasa, but the outcome is a set of unpleasant characters and unfactory events. The humor in the movie seems forced and mostly depends on low-brow jokes and slapstick, which makes the viewers yearning for real laughter.
Annoying Character by Poppy Liu
Poppy Liu's performance of Rex's best friend Nadine is supposed to be eccentric and humorous. But the character's outrageous demeanor and relentless attempts at humor come across as grating and unpleasant. Nadine's presence lessens the whole enjoyment of the movie.
The Predictable Plot and Suspension of Disbelief of Space Cadet
A Disney Channel-style narrative
The very predictable plot of Space Cadet feels more suited for a Disney Channel film than for one meant for a wider audience. The audience's suspension of disbelief is strained in the film by its reliance on improbable events and overdone humorous aspects.
Lack of NASA Portrayal's Credibility
The way NASA and its staff are portrayed in the movie lacks beliefulness. The story points involving the characters, especially Tom Hopper's Logan, a high-ranking NASA official, seem ridiculous and implausible because of their shockingly naivety and lack of common sense.
Efforts of Emma Roberts and Tom Hopper Notwithstanding Weak Content
Emma Roberts and Tom Hopper show their comic skills and give their all to make Space Cadet an interesting viewing experience despite the movie's shortcomings. Hopper shows great comic timing from his performances in Black Sails and The Umbrella Academy. Roberts, who also executive produces, gives her performance vitality and enthusiasm, especially in scenes where she ties the group of astronauts together.
Ultimately, Space Cadet Does Not Meet Expectations
Despite the efforts of its lead actors, Space Cadet has a painfully unfunny script, a predictable plot, and generally little comedic depth. The film's attempt at quirky humor falls short, and its improbable events fail to thrill. Roberts and Hopper give some charm on their performances, but the poor writing finally compromises their efforts. Disappointingly entered into Roberts' filmography, Space Cadet lacks the quality and originality of her past work.
