The Mummy (2017)
110 min · Action, Adventure, Horror
Tom Cruise's attempt to launch Universal's Dark Universe shared cinematic universe collapsed so thoroughly after this opening entry that the entire franchise was abandoned.
The Bottom Reel's take
Oh, *The Mummy* (2017). A film that arrived with the weight of an entire cinematic universe on its shoulders, only to crumble into an impressively ambitious pile of sand and good intentions. Universal Pictures clearly had visions of a sprawling monster-filled franchise, a modern mythological epic featuring ancient evils and contemporary heroes. What we got instead was a breathless, 110-minute sprint that ended up being less a grand opening statement and more a heartfelt, if somewhat clumsy, apology from the studio for trying too hard. It wasn't just a movie; it was a launching pad for a whole new world, which, alas, proved to be far too heavy for this single expedition.
And what a beautiful, bewildering mess it is. Directed by Alex Kurtzman, a filmmaker with a solid background in blockbuster screenwriting, this *Mummy* attempts to weave together action, adventure, and horror, but often finds itself tripping over its own grand designs. The pacing is relentless, often sacrificing character development for another high-octane chase or a startling jump scare. The film truly shines in its commitment to its own bizarre internal logic, with practical effects mingling with CGI to create some truly memorable (and occasionally bewildering) monster designs. It’s a movie that doesn't just want to entertain; it wants to impress, to establish, to lay groundwork. That it mostly just lays groundwork for its own infamy is part of its charm.
This isn't just a bad movie; it's a spectacularly miscalculated one, and that's precisely why it belongs in our hallowed halls. It’s a multi-million dollar testament to the idea that sometimes, more really is just… more. The sheer spectacle of its unraveling, the earnestness with which it tries to be everything to everyone – an origin story, a monster movie, a globe-trotting adventure, a star vehicle – makes it a fascinating watch. The 16% critic score and 34% audience score tell only half the story; they hint at the critical drubbing and audience confusion, but they don't capture the sheer audacity of its cinematic swing.
So, how do you experience this jewel of misguided ambition? We recommend gathering your most discerning, yet open-minded, friends. Arm yourselves with snacks that can withstand unexpected plot twists and questionable character motivations. Prepare to cheer, to groan, and to perhaps even marvel at the sheer, unbridled energy on display. *The Mummy* (2017) isn’t just famously bad; it’s unforgettably fun, a glorious cinematic misfire that, like an ancient curse, will linger in your memory long after the credits roll.
Synopsis
An American soldier accidentally awakens an ancient Egyptian princess whose sarcophagus has been transported to modern-day London, triggering a catastrophe.