Jupiter Ascending (2015): Space Fairy-Tale with a side of anticapitalism
2015 • Lana Wachowski & Lilly Wachowski • 2.39:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓
In Jupiter Ascending, directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, a young woman living an ordinary life on Earth discovers that she is the genetic reincarnation of intergalactic royalty. This revelation draws her into a conflict between powerful dynastic factions competing for control of planetary resources, forcing her to navigate an unfamiliar political and cosmic landscape.
Blending space opera with fairy-tale elements, the film creates a vast, complex universe defined by hierarchical systems, advanced technologies, and elaborate world-building. The story begins on Earth but soon moves to spaceships and faraway planets, each with its own unique aesthetics, environments, technologies, and plot twists. The film offers a large-scale spectacle with impressive designs, intricate costumes, and ambitious digital effects.
On paper, Jupiter Ascending sounds like a serious take on The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy from the perspective of a reluctant princess. But first and foremost, it is an ambitious space opera full of stylised action, complex lore, and an explicit critique of late-stage capitalism. It’s a classic quest presented as a high-concept original sci-fi melodrama.
Technical Specs:
- The Story: A young woman working as a cleaner discovers she is the genetic heir to a powerful interstellar dynasty, drawing her into a cosmic conflict over immortality, exploitation, and personal agency. Read my review of Jupiter Ascending.
- Actors: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Sean Bean, Eddie Redmayne, Douglas Booth, Tuppence Middleton, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Edward Hogg, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Bae Doona.
- Directors: Lana Wachowski & Lilly Wachowski
- Year: 2015
- Cinematographer: John Toll
- Origin: American Cinema
- Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1
- Genre: Sci-Fi
