Jim Mickle

In the Shadow of the Moon (Netflix) - 3/5

The audience reception of this movie is going to vary wildly by political affiliation, as to whether the heroes or the villains win in the end, though the film certainly portrays them as heroes. The setup is clever and the core ideas intriguing, but unfortunately it ties its resolution too closely with preconceived notions of social issues that aren’t addressed within the film, only taken as a given. There are distinct similarities both visually and thematically to other high-concept sci-fi films, but the film falls victim to some huge sci-fi plot holes in the process. For all that, though, it still has a compelling story, very solid acting, and a high level of overall polish.

Content warnings: blood, some language.

Closest comparison: It’s like Mr. Nobody or Predestination by way of The Place Beyond The Pines.

Setting: Police Drama
Plot: Social Sci-fi
Tone: CSI Drama