Edge of Tomorrow

When you come across the movie titled "Edge of Tomorrow" on various anime websites, you might find yourself scratching your head, wondering how anime-like this film is, even though it's not an anime at all. It's a sci-fi flick based on the concept of "Live, Die, Repeat." Is there anything distinctly Japanese about this must-see movie of the season? Some say there is. "Edge of Tomorrow" is heavily inspired by the sci-fi novel "All You Need Is Kill" by Hiroshi Sakurazaka. If this movie were to debut in Japan, people might question why a Hollywood film has taken inspiration from a Japanese sci-fi novel. They won't find out until they actually see it.

 

In the movie, Tom Cruise plays Major William Cage, an officer assigned to a dangerous mission despite his lack of combat skills. Earth is under attack from an alien invasion, and the military forces are struggling against these extraterrestrial threats. Cage is killed in combat but discovers that he can relive the same moment over and over again. As he experiences the cycle of living, dying, and repeating, Cage begins to show signs of improvement. With the help of his ally, played by Emily Blunt, they edge closer to ending the alien invasion.

 

I admit that this movie draws some inspiration from an action film called "Source Code." When it fails, it restarts, continuing until the mission is complete. You get the gist of it. It’s interesting why most anime-related websites are discussing this film even though it isn't an anime. However, this discovery may take some time to appreciate. "Edge of Tomorrow" feels like a mash-up between "Source Code" and "Pacific Rim." Sci-fi never goes out of style, and "Edge of Tomorrow" stands out as it combines being a hardcore film with a lot of excitement for your dollar, yen, pound, euro, dirham, or whatever currency you use.

 

While "Edge of Tomorrow" may not be the perfect summer movie of the year, it certainly knows how to blow the opposition out of the water. Just like the main character in the film, it will continue to "Live, Die, and Repeat."

My rating: 3.5 out of 5