Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

The earth is destroyed in favor of a hyperspace express rout, an intergalactic bypass; but before it is, Arthur Dent (Martin Freeman) is extracted by interplanetary hitch hiker Ford (Mos Def) who's repaying him for saving his life while he was introducing himself to an SUV. They team up with Galactic President Zaphod Beeblebrox (Sam Rockwell) and fellow earth survivor, Tricia McMillan (Zooey Deschenel,) whom Arthur Dent failed to pick-up at a party who left with Zaphod instead. Their many adventures lead them on a quest to discover the ultimate question, of which the answer is 42.

Intelligent and also ludicrous humor is the point of this entire piece. It is completely ridiculous, from the improbability drive to "don't forget your towel" (the reason of which is never explained,) Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy presents an intelligent banter of different explanations for metaphysical inquisitions and contemplations asked by philosophers and scientists for the history of the world. It contemplates everything from the creation of the universe to who we are and the meaning of love and life. And instead of being pompously serious, the tone is playful and snarky keeping all on their toes and paying attention.

I love this film because of all the science fiction conventions it flouts. Instead of a complex scientific explanation for how translations work, Ford pulls out a cartoony looking fish in a jar from his pocket and sticks the fish into Arthur Dent's ear as The Guide, a computer-like book carried always by Ford, explains that the fish is eating the language fed into Arthur's brain and excretes sonic waves that allow him to understand what is being said. Ridiculous, I know, but much more fun!! Because of this, the film's an acquired taste and perhaps not for everyone.

Quality performances by Alan Rickman, Stephen Fry and Helen Mirren, who leant their voices for Marvin the Robot, The Guide and Deep Thought, respectively. I also enjoyed the spot performances by Bill Nighy and John Malkovich, each putting their entire efforts into their short time on screen. The trio of Martin Freeman, Mos Def and Sam Rockwell were a perfect match for each other. A great cast, which is why I chose to see it in the theater in the first place.

Not necessarily a "must-see," but fun nonetheless.

****

IN: John Malkovich

OUT: Martin Freeman

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