In the world of post-apocalyptic cinema, few films offer as unique a take as Mortal Engines. With Peter Jackson behind the scenes and a bold, futuristic world filled with moving cities, it seemed like a recipe for success. Yet, despite the film’s grandeur and potential, it failed to make the mark it deserved. If you haven’t seen it yet, now might be your last chance to experience it—before it leaves Netflix on June 15th.
A Stunning Yet Underrated Sci-Fi Adventure
*If you’re a fan of visually stunning science fiction, Mortal Engines might just be your next favorite hidden gem. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where massive cities roam the Earth, the film imagines a society where these giant urban areas devour smaller, weaker ones in an endless pursuit of resources. The result is a gritty, action-packed adventure filled with intrigue, breathtaking visuals, and a sense of dystopian wonder.
The plot centers around Hester Shaw (played by Hera Hilmar), a fugitive with a dark past, and Tom Natsworthy (Robert Sheehan), an orphan whose life changes forever when their paths cross. Together, they form an unlikely alliance that could alter the course of their world’s future. The story is based on the 2001 novel by Philip Reeve, and the screenplay was adapted by Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens—familiar names for fans of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Despite the impressive writing and a strong visual foundation, Mortal Engines didn’t receive the reception it deserved at the box office. The film grossed just $83 million worldwide against a $100 million production budget, leading to significant financial losses once marketing costs were factored in. It’s unfortunate that this gem of a film didn’t find its audience, as it has everything that a sci-fi fan could want: engaging world-building, solid performances, and epic visuals.
A World That Feels Alive and Dangerous
The beauty of Mortal Engines lies in its world-building. The idea of cities on the move isn’t just a unique concept but one that’s executed with such attention to detail that it creates an immersive experience. The film doesn’t just rely on special effects; it integrates them into the storyline, creating a living, breathing world where survival is a constant battle.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is its portrayal of how humanity has adapted to an apocalyptic world. The giant, moving cities are powered by massive engines and are locked in a brutal cycle of consuming smaller, less developed settlements. This creates a dynamic, dangerous environment where every move counts, and every decision has consequences.
It’s also a film that asks fundamental questions about human nature, survival, and the choices we make. Hester and Tom’s relationship evolves as they face the harsh realities of their world, making their journey one filled with emotional highs and lows.
A Visual Masterpiece that Deserved More
Visually, Mortal Engines stands out as one of the most aesthetically impressive sci-fi films of its time. The landscapes are breathtaking, from the towering, mechanical cities to the desolate wastelands they traverse. The world feels vast, yet incredibly detailed, drawing you in and making you feel the weight of this post-apocalyptic existence.
While the film’s budget was clearly spent on creating this expansive world, the story still manages to keep the focus on the characters, particularly Hester and Tom. Their personal growth throughout the film is moving, and it’s easy to root for them as they navigate their complex relationship and the dangerous world around them.
Unfortunately, despite the movie’s spectacular visuals and engaging plot, Mortal Engines didn’t manage to find its audience in theaters. This wasn’t due to a lack of quality but rather a combination of poor marketing and misfortune. As a result, the film became one of the more forgotten sci-fi releases of the decade.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to See It
As Mortal Engines disappears from Netflix on June 15th, it’s a good time to reflect on what could have been. This film deserved a wider audience, and for those who missed it, it’s not too late to give it a chance. Fortunately, it’s still available on Prime Video, with no end date in sight for now.
So, if you haven’t seen this cinematic masterpiece, take the opportunity to sit down and watch it. Mortal Engines might not have achieved commercial success, but its gripping story, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes make it an underrated gem that truly deserves more attention.