Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (2004)

This visually striking fantastical story won’t win any awards with its flying robots and Art Deco stylings. But it looks cool and it entertains (provided you suspend disbelief). As Sky Captain Joe Sullivan (Jude Law) oozes smooth with his aviator style. And as he travels to dangerous places to prevent the apocalypse being masterminded by Dr. Totenkopf (check it: Sir Laurence Olivier), he enlists the help of his two dames: reporter Polly Perkins (Gwyneth Paltrow) and Franky (Angelina Jolie). With his friend Dex (Giovanni Ribisi) ever at the ready, Cap will succeed and look cool the entire time.

Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow is just incredible with interesting characters, solid, if often nutty dialogue, and the occasion homage. Its fun to look at—to think the entire thing was filmed against a blue screen. Brilliant! What elevates the film from average (see The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen) is the amazing visual style and detailed elements. The characters aren’t particularly deep, but the cast is remarkable. Using archival footage of Olivier is an amazing element.

As I see it, this futuristic adventure is a brilliant waste of time. The film gets better with multiple viewing as writer/director Kerry Conrad always has something extra in each frame. If the dialogue doesn’t get you, the details will.