By GEOFF SIMM
geoff@du2.byu.edu
Here's the situation... a comet is heading toward earth and is going to completely wipe out everything. You are the president of the United States. How will you help the human race survive?
Well, if you're President Tom Beck (Morgan Freeman), you will choose a million people to be put into a series of underground caves called an 'ark.'
Now you have the plot of Paramount Pictures' summer release 'Deep Impact,' which made $41.9 million its opening weekend.
The story actually begins with an MSNBC reporter named Jenny Lerner (Tea Leoni) uncovering the story of the comet. The comet is named after the kid who discovered it, Leo Beiderman (Elijah Wood). Spurgeon Tanner (Robert Duvall) is sent with a team to try and blow up the comet.
To be honest, I'm not a big fan of 'summer blockbusters,' and was surprised by how much I enjoyed this movie. The acting was really good and the script was well written so I actually cared about the characters (unlike other 'blockbusters,' such as 'The Lost World').
This movie also has many subplots. A reporter trying to reconcile her feelings about her father, Leo and his friend Sarah trying to choose between each other and their families and Tanner trying to help his team survive.
Usually, a lot of subplots take away from the focus of the movie. In 'Deep Impact,' the subplots add to the suspense because you more involved with the characters.
'Deep Impact' is a rare movie, in that it will appeal to both men and women. I say this because my girlfriend liked it too, and we never agree on movies.
Men will, of course, be attracted by the special effects (and Tea Leoni). Women may not like the previews (and I realize I'm stereotyping here), but they will enjoy the humanity shown in the movie through the characters and storyline.
I should add a warning. This is NOT one of those Hollywood movies with one of those 'happily ever after' endings. Some may be surprised with how things end up. But one thing's for sure, a good time will be had by all.