FILM
IN THE LOST LANDS
★★
OUT NOW / CERT 15 / 101 MINS
DIRECTOR Paul W.S. Anderson
CAST Milla Jovovich, Dave Bautista, Arly Jover
In this adaptation of a short story by Game Of Thrones writer George R.R. Martin, director Paul W.S. Anderson casts his favourite muse (and wife) Milla Jovovich as Gray Alys, a powerful witch who enlists skilled hunter Boyce (Dave Bautista) on her quest to find a magical power in the post-apocalyptic Lost Lands. On paper, this is the basis for a fun fantasy caper. In reality, it’s a visually ugly, narratively convoluted mess, with action that’s hamstrung by poor spatial geography and — what with Alys’ seemingly allpowerful skillset — a distinct lack of tension. Plus, Bautista and Jovovich are unable to stir up the romantic chemistry needed for the third-act revelations to have any impact. Do yourselves a favour and watch Mad Max: Fury Road instead — dystopia done right.