Michael Fassbender’s New Sci-Fi Thriller Debuts To Stellar Rotten Tomatoes Score

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It’s looking hopeful for Michael Fassbender’s new sci-fi film.

Michael Fassbender, the Irish actor, is widely recognized for his roles in science fiction films. He powerfully portrayed Magneto in the X-Men series between 2011 and 2019, and played the chillingly composed android David 8/Walter One in Ridley Scott’s Prometheus (2012) and Alien: Covenant (2017). Beyond these blockbuster franchises, Fassbender has received two Academy Award nominations for his dramatic performances in 12 Years a Slave (2013), where he played a cruel plantation owner, and Steve Jobs (2015), where he embodied the Apple founder. His latest science fiction film is now earning high praise from critics.

Just days after its release, the film Hope has received incredibly positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed and written by Na Hong-jin, the filmmaker behind The Chaser (2008), The Yellow Sea (2010), and The Wailing (2016), the new sci-fi thriller centers on a small coastal town where people must struggle to survive when a strange creature appears nearby.

After premiering at the Cannes Film Festival on May 17th and competing for the Palme d’Or, the film Hope has received a 84% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. This score is based on 25 reviews and may change as more reviews come in.

The film features a talented cast alongside Michael Fassbender, including Hwang Jung-min (known for The Wailing), Zo In-sung, Jung Ho-yeon (an Emmy nominee from Squid Game), Taylor Russell (Bones and All), Cameron Britton (an Emmy nominee from Mindhunter), Alicia Vikander (an Oscar winner for The Danish Girl), Uhm Tae-goo, and Lee Kyu-hyung.

In a review for ScreenRant, Patrice Witherspoon gave the film Hope a score of 8 out of 10, describing it as an exciting and thrilling monster movie. She felt the 10-year wait for a new film from director Na Hong-jin (who last directed The Wailing in 2016) was well worth it, praising the non-stop action and sci-fi creature elements. Witherspoon also noted that despite being over-the-top, violent, and lengthy, the movie is thoroughly enjoyable and captivating throughout.

Critics generally agree that Hope is a thrilling, fast-paced movie that blends elements of westerns, science fiction, and horror. Reviews consistently highlight its energetic and visually stunning nature, particularly its impactful action sequences. The film also receives acclaim for its strong technical aspects, including the cinematography, creature effects, and practical effects, which all contribute to its exciting spectacle.

Some critics feel the movie’s energy sometimes overwhelms the story, with noticeable CGI issues and a script that struggles with its grand ideas. However, even those with mixed feelings agree it’s consistently exciting and unlike anything else seen at the Cannes festival. Overall, Hope is considered a flawed but memorable experience – a worthwhile watch despite its occasional missteps.

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2026-05-19 22:20