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Cold Fusion (2011) Review

Many people believe that the American film industry is in a slump, with few original ideas and too much focus on sequels and remakes. However, every now and then a film comes along that proves that there are still plenty of talented filmmakers out there with something new to say. Cold Fusion is one of those films.

Directed by Tim Irwin, Cold Fusion is a fascinating and original science fiction film that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. The film is set in the near future, and follows the story of a group of scientists who are working on a new form of energy called cold fusion. However, when they finally succeed in creating this new energy, they soon realize that it has some very dangerous side effects.

While the plot of Cold Fusion may sound like it could be a bit dry, the film is actually quite suspenseful and engaging. The acting is also quite good, with a cast that includes some familiar faces such as Brian Cox and Joe Morton.

What we’ve got here is a political action sci-fi which perhaps fortunately, doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s clearly b-movie standard but regardless it’s gripping and the storyline is pretty decent. Adrian Paul stars as the American Commander that not only has to concern himself with enemies abroad but also enemies from within. His performance (as usual) is decent and juxtaposed with William Hope’s (Gorman from Aliens) devious, undermining character works really well. There’s some real hot women in this flick too, sadly there’s no full frontal but we still get some fan service.

Being a sci-fi action flick Cold Fusion isn’t scary, there’s no little green men, no monsters to speak of whatsoever, it’s grounded very much in the action genre that way. The action itself is pretty simple stuff also. No colossal 30 minute kung-fu matches or uber super men anywhere. There are some big explosions which look a bit on the CGI side for my liking. Hey it’s a b-movie, it was a given the CGI wasn’t going to be top class but it is functional even if it’s not going to blow your mind.

Pacing wise Cold Fusion moves along pretty well, the storyline is complex but not difficult to follow nor does it ever get boring.

Where does that leave things when it comes to recommendations? Well I’d certainly recommend this one for a rental if it sounds like your cup of tea though I’m cagey about recommending it as a blind buy. It sure isn’t the worst action sci-fi I’ve ever seen but then it’s far from the best as well. If you can catch this one on Syfy then that’s probably the best way to go though I’m not sure when it’ll be screening again. Regardless though, see it if you can.

Overall, Cold Fusion is a well-made and intriguing science fiction film that is sure to please fans of the genre. It is a refreshing change of pace from the usual Hollywood fare, and is definitely worth checking out.

Synopsis

When two scientists discover a way to create energy from cold fusion, they must race against the clock to perfect the technology before the government shuts them down. With the help of a former CIA agent, they must keep the technology out of the wrong hands and save the world from an energy crisis.

Lance and Eric are two scientists who have discovered a way to create energy from cold fusion. With the clock ticking, they must perfect the technology before the government shuts them down. With the help of a former CIA agent, they must keep the technology out of the wrong hands and save the world from an energy crisis.

Movie Details

Director: Ivan Mitov
Writer: Nathan Atkins
Actors: Michelle Lee, Sarah Brown, Shelly Varod, Mike Straub
Release Year: 2010