Lumina

Film starts with a lot of potential, but after about 20 mins it really takes a dive. Plot, script, acting, makeup, location, editing, continuity all dive very low and the originally promising elements evaporate and a low low really low budget poorly thought out and painfully lacking flick emerges. I'm currently 1 hour 15 mins in and I am not sure I can watch any more of it.

If you try it, about 20 mins in when you get to the cop by the pool delivering his line , you'll see the film for what it really is. A disappointing cringeworthy effort (or lack of it).

The stuff that gets through selection for Prime is becoming a joke. A bad one at that.

In the vast cosmos of science fiction cinema, where imaginative storytelling and visual spectacle often collide, "Lumina" attempts to carve out its own niche. However, it tragically falls short, earning its place in the annals of film history as one of the worst sci-fi movies ever made.

At its core, "Lumina" revolves around a dystopian future where humanity has harnessed a mysterious energy source known as Lumina, which promises to solve the world's energy crisis. Unfortunately, the film's premise is one of its few redeeming qualities. The narrative quickly devolves into a muddled mess, with plot holes so vast they could swallow entire planets. Characters are introduced with little to no development, leaving audiences struggling to connect with their motivations or stakes. The protagonist, a lackluster hero named Zara, played by an uninspired actress, is a prime example of this failure. Her journey from a disillusioned scientist to a reluctant savior feels more like a series of obligatory tropes than a coherent arc.

Visually, "Lumina" is a mixed bag. The film boasts some ambitious set designs and special effects, yet they are undermined by a glaring lack of coherence in execution. The CGI, which could have elevated the film's otherworldly aesthetic, often appears unfinished or poorly integrated. In one particularly egregious scene, a supposed alien landscape looks more like a poorly rendered video game from the early 2000s, pulling viewers out of the narrative and into a realm of unintentional comedy.

The dialogue is another significant flaw, with cringe-worthy lines that are more likely to elicit laughter than emotional engagement. The attempts at philosophical musings on energy consumption and environmentalism feel forced and preachy, lacking the subtlety that great sci-fi often employs to provoke thought. Instead, they come off as hollow platitudes, further distancing the audience from the film's already flimsy narrative.

Despite its shortcomings, "Lumina" does offer a few moments of unintentional humor and absurdity that may appeal to audiences seeking a so-bad-it's-good experience. However, these fleeting moments are not enough to redeem the overall experience.

In conclusion, "Lumina" serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of sci-fi filmmaking. With a weak script, poor character development, and lackluster visuals, it's a film that squanders its potential. While some might find enjoyment in its flaws, for most viewers, it will remain a forgettable entry in the sci-fi genre-an unfortunate reminder that not all journeys through the stars are worth taking.

Gino McKoy's Lumina is a visually stunning and intellectually engaging sci-fi film. It challenges viewers with its complex narrative and philosophical themes, making it a standout in the genre. The cinematography is gorgeous, and the performances are compelling. While not a film for those seeking fast-paced action, Lumina is perfect for viewers who appreciate a blend of style and substance in their science fiction. Lumina is a remarkable achievement in science fiction cinema. Gino McKoy has crafted a film that is both visually stunning and intellectually challenging, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience. While it may not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer their sci-fi with more action and less introspection.

I went to watch this movie 'lumina' in a theatre in Wahington DC. The movie was very good as it's cast was very good, the main chracter tatiana (Eleanor Williams) is very good actor has she was very good in this role, I was amazed to watch this movie I have watched a sci fi movie after a long time which has both good chracters, good story, and good animations. This movie was totally good as I felt that it is not a movie it's all happening in real world, Out of all odds the director, writer, producer Gino McKoy is very good man as it is very difficult in current time to make a sci fi movie during this time.

Alien films are tricky because so much has been covered. There is little fertile ground save for the reshuffling of previous material. Here in Lumina, there is a soft effort to make a personal connection between the conspiracy and the characters. However, the film's path is full of never-ending twists in the road, unexpected turns, and revelations that keep the audience more distracted than engaged. By the time the film ends, there is a feeling of being off-balance caused by the rapid surprises and shifts in the narrative.

The biggest challenge for Lumina is the scope of its ambitions. The film tries to spin off into a myriad of directions, ranging from government secrets to alien menaces. These are all valid angles, but the problem lies in the execution, which is sloppy and, at times, distracted. Audiences will likely guess the ending before the end of the first act. The lack of subtlety is to the detriment of the film. While there are some twists, they arrive a little too late to make any real contact.

Full Review at Geek Vibes Nation.