4/5 stars

In a future when the mob wants rid of somebody they send them back to the past where Loopers like Joe kill them. But events are sure to go haywire when the mob sends back Joe’s future self.

If you go into Looper wanting an all guns-blazing action thrill ride then prepare to be disappointed.  It exceeds that, as an intelligent sci-fi thriller with an emotional heart embedded in a fantastic story.

Although there is plenty of action with gun battles and edge-of-your-seat chases what really stands out is the plot. Albeit it jam-packed with action, Looper manages to be a ‘writers film’, focusing on plot and character development – something often forgotten in big-budget action films.

Films about time travel run the risk of becoming very confusing and gaping with plot holes, yet writer and director Rian Johnson spends time ensuring it is all solid and makes sense by presenting events from the perspective of both Willis and Gordon-Levitt. It is not all about time travel, as at the heart is a surprisingly touching story of family relationships.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt is perfectly cast as Joe, a slick and sleek killer with a vulnerable side. He proves that he is a versatile actor, maturing from his lovelorn puppy days in 10 Things I Hate About You and 500 Days of Summer, as does Emily Blunt with whom he has great chemistry. Unfortunately, it is Bruce Willis who proves a weak point, seemingly lacking enthusiasm and often looking quite bored as Joe from the future.

Looper is a great mixture of action and emotion, with even the odd comical moment. With slick styling, and great cinematography, it looks great on screen and sounds good too. It’s a shame that Willis and the supporting cast let the side down, losing its’ potential to be one of the best films of the year.

Emily Murray