Before delving into the review of “Galaxy Games,” a brief exploration of the film’s background reveals a surprising twist. While researching writer/director Ben Carland’s (known for “Survive” and “Shadows on the Wall”) filmography, an intriguing discovery emerged. Carland was credited with a 2021 film titled “Sol Invictus,” the actual name of the games central to the movie. However, this seemingly new release is, in fact, an eleven-year-old film that has resurfaced under different titles, namely “Sol” and “Sol Invictus.”
Upon closer inspection, user reviews dating back to 2013 shed light on this cinematic metamorphosis. Additional research unearthed articles, including this one, dating as far back as 2011. Thus, what initially appears as a fresh cinematic experience is, in reality, a film with a complex history of rebranding and re-releases.
The narrative unfolds with a voiceover enthusiastically hyping the interstellar games to potential participants, only to thrust viewers onto a beach where the expected teleportation via Stargate has gone awry. The majority of contestants are missing, presumed dead, leaving behind a motley crew from various teams, led by the head of The Geminis. This group includes Eli, Tyl, Kit, Lee, and Adrian, the previous year’s winner disqualified for cheating.
As the group faces challenges ranging from lost supplies to hostile creatures and inter-team rivalries, the film starts to resemble a fusion of “The Hunger Games,” “Lord of the Flies,” and Robert A. Heinlein’s “Tunnel in the Sky.” However, the execution leaves much to be desired. Despite Carland’s claim that the film cost $150,000-$200,000 to make in 2011, the production quality doesn’t reflect this investment. The clothing, tents, and overall setting lack a convincing otherworldly touch, reminiscent of a budget production.
The script further exacerbates the film’s shortcomings. Implausible events, such as Adrian’s return to compete, and contradictory elements detract from the coherence of the narrative. The film struggles to establish clear objectives, oscillating between survival and competition, leaving the audience uncertain about the characters’ motivations.
Regrettably, “Galaxy Games” falls short in terms of engagement. The characters fail to evoke sympathy or interest, and a significant portion of the film involves them making questionable choices on the beach. The overall experience feels more like a film school project than a polished cinematic endeavor, lacking the depth found in comparable works like “Dark Star” and “Luz.”
“Galaxy Games” is now available on VOD and Digital platforms, courtesy of High Octane Pictures. For more details, visit their Facebook page or the film’s official website. If you’re seeking a similar viewing experience with higher expectations, FilmTagger offers alternative suggestions.