"Bright" Movie Review

Currently, American society is struggling with how to handle the perception of poor police relations with minority populations. Now comes the Netflix film Bright, which portrays corrupt police culture prone to political and financial influence and systemic discrimination.

Sound divisive? This movie has that effect. Still, Bright attempts to blend these social issues with an intense layer of fantasy to pacify political tone with nerd culture.

Here's the thing: Bright isn't a great movie. At the same time however, it's not a bad movie either. Politics aside, Bright packs a lot of entertainment value into its fantastical premise. Solid visual effects and a stern Will Smith keeps the movie engaging.

But so much of Bright feels obnoxious. Tikka, the elf at the center of the conflict for example, routinely shrieks to watch out for oncoming danger a few seconds too late. And there are periodic intermissions to spell out every piece of terminology. And with a conclusion that can't be more cliche, Bright leaves me less than impressed.

There may be enough to keep the movie entertaining for most. But, regardless of the fact that I found the political overtures jarring, Bright is just another mediocre Netflix attempt at filmmaking.

Acting and Casting - 1 | Visual Effects and Editing - 2 | Story and Message - 0 | Entertainment Value - 2 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 1 | Reviewer's Preference - 1