The Adam Project (2022) Movie Review

According to renowned science fiction author David Brin, the only reason for time travel is to "make it didn't happen." It's a compelling notion to correct or prevent a single mistake, and time travel has become the backbone of some of our favorite rescue operation stories on the big screen. "The Adam Project" is one such tale that offers an enjoyable popcorn flick from the team behind last year's "Free Guy."

The film opens with the legendary 1966 Spencer Davis Group song, "Gimme Some Lovin'," which sets the tone for the action-packed adventure we're about to witness. We meet Adam Reed (played by Ryan Reynolds), a rocket ship pilot, mid-chase. Although it's 2050, and time travel exists, we don't know it yet. We can see that Adam is in trouble, and he's been hit along with his ship. He steals a jet and escapes through a wormhole, taking him back to 2022.

Meanwhile, in the present, 12-year-old Adam Reed (Walker Scobell) is getting suspended from school for fighting a bully. He's mourning the loss of his father, who died in a car accident more than a year ago. He's angry, small for his age, and sarcastic, which often lands him in trouble. Adult Adam arrives, injured and with a damaged ship, at his old house, where young Adam lives with his mother Ellie (Jennifer Garner).

Reynolds and Scobell have an excellent rapport and bring the same rhythms to their observations and snarky comebacks. They also have the same scar under their chins and wear their dad's watch. It doesn't take young Adam long to figure out he's talking to his future self, and it takes a little longer for adult Adam to realize that his younger self deserves compassion. As they navigate their relationship and try to fix the future, the bad guys show up, and the action ramps up.

"The Adam Project" does an excellent job balancing the action with the inherent comedy of two versions of the same person interacting. Both Adams know how to get on the nerves of everyone around them, and it's amusing to see how they are both irritated by and appreciative of each other's smart-aleck comebacks. However, adult Adam doesn't want to be reminded of how unhappy and angry he was as a child, and young Adam is thrilled to learn about time travel and ride in a spaceship.

The film makes nods to "The Terminator" and "Back to the Future," as well as "Frequency" and stories that date back to the myth of Orpheus. Fans of "13 Going on 30" will also appreciate seeing Garner and Mark Ruffalo as a loving couple. The production design by Claude Paré for the futuristic gizmos and special effects by Scanline VFX are better than expected. The fight scenes are well-staged, including one that includes a tender reunion amidst the chaos.

As Big Adam warms to his younger version, the film gains some heart amidst the mayhem. Big Adam's realization that anger doesn't prevent sadness and that second chances are possible is genuinely touching. Although the action and fantasy elements are fun, it's the family themes that will stick with audiences long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, "The Adam Project" is a thrilling and entertaining film that blends action and humor with family drama. Reynolds and Scobell's performances are terrific, and the supporting cast brings their A-game. The movie has something for everyone, including sci-fi fans and families. It's an exciting adventure that will leave you feeling satisfied and heartened.