Ender’s Game – Last Hope of Mankind

Can a child really be mankind's last hope? Seems unlikely, but this very question sets the framework for the upcoming movie “Ender’s Game” which debuts in theaters on 11/1/13. 

Ender’s Game is based on the 1985 novel of the same name, written by Orson Scott Card and published by Tor Books.

About six months ago, I discovered the Audible version of this book and was thoroughly blown away by Card’s depiction of what a world was willing to do to save itself from inevitable extinction. In addition, the strong willed protagonist was well-suited for the moment in time he is living in. Without giving away too much, here is a summary of the plot.

In the future, Earth has nearly been destroyed by an insect-type alien race which has been nick-named “buggers.” The decision that Earth will strike back to prevent imminent future annihilation affects everyone, especially children, who must be tested so that the best can serve.

Andrew “Ender” Wiggins is deemed to be the best of the best. The forces in power must now go about preparing Ender to be the military genius who will lead Earth’s military forces to victory, hopefully saving the future of humanity.

When I discovered that a movie based on the book would be released in November, I was more than thrilled. I've seen the coming attraction clips and I am so far impressed by the dazzling special effects and the cast of characters that were selected, especially the actor chosen to play Ender Wiggins.

If the film truly reflects the substance of the book, my expectation is that there will be controversy concerning the main character being a child (in the book, Ender was ten years old).  Some might find it disturbing that one so young could be purposely capable of acts which potentially cause millions of lives to be lost on both sides. Card explains that it is because of his youth that Ender and those like him are able to focus on the task at hand without the distractions of adulthood we all eventually face as we move through adolescents and beyond.

I am eagerly looking forward to the movie version. Hopefully, It will successfully depict Ender’s tough as nails endurance and his pure of heart intentions as he moves through his training. Take a look at the trailer below if you'd like a taste. See you at the movies.

Ender's Game - Movie Trailer

Don't forget to visit Endless Perceptions for other works by Lloyd A. Green

(500) Days of Summer (and learning)

"This is a story of boy meets girl, but you should know up front, this is not a love story." Even though the narrator states this at the beginning of the film, you still swear that you ARE watching a love story. What you are actually watching is the 500 days that it takes for the characters to learn about themselves. I know this is confusing, but allow me to explain.

This 2006 movie, now on DVD, stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Tom and Zooey Deschanel as Summer Finn.  Tom is a discouraged architect turned greeting card writer. He believes that one day, he is destined to find his soul mate. Into his safe and boring life walks Summer, who he instantly falls head over heels for. She is also smitten by Tom, and thus begins an extremely well-thought through story which is not just about the power of love. 

One of the really enjoyable points of the movie is when Tom realizes how much he loves Summer. The musical number that erupts has everyone around him feeling as he does. Symbolic or not, all have to agree that birds can't help but sing and the sun has no choice but to shine when when love is in the air

Throughout their relationship, Summer states that she is not looking for a boyfriend. Tom interprets her mounting affection towards him as a natural progression which can only mean the opposite. As Tom pushes for a commitment, love turns to despair. That despair turns to a hope for their reconciliation, but watch what happens next. 

The film effectively moves back and forth through time without missing a beat in terms of understanding the film. The contrast of the different stages of their union are thought provoking and at times playful as Tom attempts to decipher the enigma which is Summer Finn. 

 

As the narrator said earlier, "This is not a love story." Whether we choose to accept it or not, we learn from each relationship. Some are determined to make that special person the one, but even if they are not, we gather bits of information, deal with our emotional state and are forever changed when the next one appears.

A superb movie and a great love story. A must-see which Prince, Oliver and I all give a 10 out of 10 score.