I want to tap into Zack Snyder’s brain and figure out what the true vision for Sucker Punch really was. The man has been on the verge of something perfect and revolutionary ever since he broke in the director’s chair. Sucker Punch has flashes of brilliance, beauty, and awe-inspiring style that demonstrates why a trip to the big screen is still worth it. However, if your trip to theater requires more motivation than to see the latest special effects spectacular, you may be better served testing out your home theater with a Sucker Punch rental down the road.

After the initial voice-over, the introduction to Sucker Punch sets up the main character, Baby Doll played by Emily Browning (Lemony Snicket’s), and her trip to the insane asylum with absolutely no dialog. A haunting remake of “Sweet Dreams” kicks off the consistently strong soundtrack while Baby Doll’s hopeless journey unfolds before our eager eyes. Snyder’s knack for visual flare is on full display even when setting up a much more reality based scene than his recent films. I found the tragic setup to be the strongest piece of storytelling in the entire film, and a fantastically subtle delivery of his constant camera movement and dramatic angles. Unfortunately, the strong start begins to crumble when the character’s start opening their mouths to speak.
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