Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow

"Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" is unlike anything you and I have ever seen. It's like "Indiana Jones" with its action adventure qualities combined with a romantic side. But where the Indy trilogy was limited by the use of real people and limited special effects, "Sky Captain" uses high definition computer effects to create a world we have never encountered before. The end result is an exciting storyline that feels futuristic while taking place in a retro throwback world with a look all its own.

Gwyneth Paltrow is investigative reporter Polly Perkins, following leads into the disappearance of a list of renowned scientists. Her final encounter is with a dying scientist who utters the word "Totenkopf", who we come to discover is the bad guy. Not just any bad guy though. Totenkopf has developed massive robots of all varieties that are wreaking havoc around the world. Out to save the world is Sky Captain (Jude Law), an ace pilot who actually dresses like Indiana Jones. Polly and Sky Captain join forces and soon realize that Totenkopf is out to end the world as we know it.

Paltrow and Law are great together, razzing each other while also creating both a little sexual tension and unexpected humor. While the computer involvement here is way beyond my comprehension, this is nothing like "Shrek" or "Toy Story". Everything looks real, but you know it's not. It has the appearance of an animated classic comic book, but it's not hand drawn. The digital mastery onscreen is complimented immensely by awesome sound effects.

The more I reflect on "Sky Captain", the more I like it. At times I had trouble staying awake, but I think that was more from the effects of homecoming weekend at Saint Joe than from what was occurring on screen. If you're looking for something different in the theater for the weekend, don't be afraid to check out this one. I give it an A-.

"Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" is rated PG with a running time of 107 minutes.