Source Code is the second movie to come from Duncan Jones following his well-received debut, Moon.
Released in 2011, it is still hugely popular, particularly for fans who like a bit of mystery with their action films.
So if you haven't seen it, you may want to know what Source Code is all about. And if it is worth watching!
What Is Source Code About?
The story revolves around Captain Colter Stevens, a U.S. Army helicopter pilot, who wakes up in the body of a man named Sean Fentress on a Chicago commuter train.
Confused and disoriented, Stevens discovers that he is part of a top-secret military program called the Source Code, which allows him to relive the last eight minutes of another person's life.
His mission is to find a hidden bomb on the train and identify the bomber to prevent a future terrorist attack. However, each time Stevens fails, the train explodes, and he is sent back to relive the eight-minute time loop until he succeeds.
As Stevens continues to relive those final moments on the train, he interacts with the other passengers, including Christina Warren (Michelle Monaghan), whom he develops a connection with.
He also communicates with his military handlers, Captain Goodwin (Vera Farmiga) and Dr. Rutledge (Jeffrey Wright), who oversee the Source Code project.
Stevens becomes determined to not only complete his mission but also save the lives of the people on the train, including Christina.
Source Code Official Trailer
Is Source Code Worth Watching?
The idea of changing the course of history by altering the past has been done before. However, Source Code is so well executed that it stands on its own as a unique cinematic experience.
Due to the nature of the story, the cast is relatively small. Jake Gyllenhaal (Nocturnal Animals) gives a fantastically confused performance that is just perfect for the story.
Michelle Monaghan (Echoes) is fantastic and both actors raise their intensity as the film unravels. But the surprise stand out for me was Vera Farmiga, who is totally convincing as the cold authority figure.
Source Code offers a unique and engaging concept that combines elements of time travel, mystery, and suspense. It keeps you on the edge of your seat with its clever plot twists and intense sequences.
With positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, it has an intriguing storyline, solid acting, and skilful direction by Duncan Jones.
However, it's not perfect and while Jake Gyllenhaal's character receives significant attention and depth, others, such as Michelle Monaghan's character, are not as fully explored.
Likewise for the actual concept of the Source Code which really could have done with a more thorough explanation of its origins, workings, and limitations.
It let's down the sci-fi element of the movie but it isn't a deal breaker, just something that could have been tweaked to engage the audience a bit more.
Despite this, if you enjoy thought-provoking films that blend science fiction with suspense, Source Code is definitely worth adding to your watch list.
Cast Of Source Code
Jake Gyllenhaal as Captain Colter Stevens
Michelle Monaghan as Christina Warren
Vera Farmiga as Captain Colleen Goodwin
Jeffrey Wright as Dr. Rutledge
Michael Arden as Derek Frost
Russell Peters as Max Denoff
Scott Bakula as Donald Stevens, Colter's father
Frédérick De Grandpré as Sean Fentress
Cas Anvar as Hazmi