When one thinks of a film that would warrant a score of 6/10, what typically comes to mind is an experience that isn't groundbreaking or particularly memorable, yet manages to provide a decent dose of entertainment. "The Lost City," a 2022 comedic romp through the jungle, adheres to this standard pretty well. It's a film that harkens back to adventure comedies of times past, wrapping its story in a familiar, somewhat comfortable package.
In an era where action sequences often contend with reality for believability, "The Lost City" consciously dials back the dial, leaning into a more slapstick, light-hearted approach. This decision paints its escapades with broad strokes of humor, interlaced with moments that almost echo the screwball comedies of the 20th century. It's in these scattered pieces that the film finds its charm; however, it's a charm that doesn't consistently keep the engine running through its runtime.
Loretta Sage, portrayed with a blend of weariness and sharp wit by Sandra Bullock, captures the essence of a writer who's become a captive of her own creation. Bullock's performance is anchored in a relatability that many viewers can connect with – the notion of longing for an adventure outside the confines of one's day-to-day, while also being slightly terrified of what that entails. Channing Tatum's Alan, the embodiment of a hero without a cause, is well-meaning but somewhat obtuse, which makes for a number of amusing interactions as he tries to step beyond the page and into heroism.
Their dynamic is at the heart of "The Lost City," serving up a cocktail of playful banter and forced proximity that isn't so much a fresh take as it is an enjoyable reflection of the genre's roots. There's a sense of comfort in knowing what to expect as the would-be couple bickers and bonds through their ordeal, and for those seeking a simple diversion, it does the job.
The villain of this tale, played with an extravagant flair by Daniel Radcliffe, brings to the table a level of eccentricity that feels just shy of fitting. His character's motivations and antics come across as a caricature of villainy, dancing on the edge of plausibility. It's neither here nor there – not menacing enough to be taken seriously, yet not absurd enough to be a complete farce.
Visually, "The Lost City" doesn't aim to stun with its landscapes or set pieces, but it offers enough eye candy to be pleasing without overwhelming the senses. There are moments where the cinematography hints at the grandeur of the adventure genre, only to pull back and remind us that this story is as much about the laughs as the locale.
In sum, "The Lost City" is reminiscent of a time when adventure films didn't have to try so hard to impress. It's this very simplicity and acknowledgement of its throwback nature that keeps it afloat, skimming the surface of more profound storytelling possibilities. For all its predictability and intermittent pacing issues, the movie provides a seamless enough experience, thus earning a solid, middle-of-the-road score of 6/10.
"The Lost City" is ok, not bad – it's the kind of film you might not rush to the theaters for, but wouldn't mind stumbling upon for a cozy Sunday afternoon viewing. It staunchly proves that sometimes, all you need for an agreeable time is a solid, throwback comedy.
