Voyagers

Genetically engineered young adults at the helm of a mission to colonise an Earth-like planet split into warring factions in this science-fiction story that struggles to leave the launch pad. Without the wise counsel of their onboard supervisor (Colin Farrell), the crew question both the intentions and ethics of their task, which sparks a mutiny, as hitherto drug-controlled emotions are given free rein. Writer and director Neil Burger (Limitless) attempts to examine the morality of creating a master race before his narrative hurtles wholesale towards Lord of the Flies territory, but none of his ideas are explored with any great depth nor satisfying elements of drama or jeopardy. The lab-rat nature of the characters' very existence means the performances of the movie's leads (Tye Sheridan, Lily-Rose Depp, Fionn Whitehead) remain rooted in the cold and clinical, making it difficult for the viewer to engage with them or care about their plight.