Mortal Engines (2018) is a visually stunning post-apocalyptic sci-fi adventure directed by Christian Rivers and produced by Peter Jackson, known for his work on The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Adapted from Philip Reeve’s novel of the same name, the film takes audiences into a dystopian future where Earth has been ravaged by a cataclysmic event known as the “Sixty Minute War.” In this stark new world, gigantic mobile cities roam the landscape, consuming smaller towns and settlements in a practice called “Municipal Darwinism” to sustain their survival.

  The story centers on Hester Shaw (Hera Hilmar), a scarred and determined young woman seeking vengeance against Thaddeus Valentine (Hugo Weaving), the ruthless leader of London, one of the largest and most predatory traction cities. Valentine’s past actions led to the death of Hester’s mother, and she has been driven by revenge ever since. During an assassination attempt on Valentine, Hester crosses paths with Tom Natsworthy (Robert Sheehan), a curious and idealistic young historian exiled from London for helping her. The two form an uneasy alliance as they are thrust into a larger conflict that could shape the fate of humanity.

The narrative expands as Hester and Tom encounter Anna Fang (Jihae), a charismatic and skilled aviator who is part of the Anti-Traction League, a resistance group opposing the destructive mobile cities. Anna believes in a future where stationary settlements can coexist without the need for resource consumption through violence. Together, they uncover a dark conspiracy: Valentine’s plan to use a deadly ancient weapon, MEDUSA, to cement London’s dominance and obliterate the Anti-Traction League’s stronghold.

As the trio fights against time, the film delves into themes of environmental degradation, societal hierarchy, and human resilience. The moving cities, a striking metaphor for unsustainable consumption, are juxtaposed against the resistance’s vision of a sustainable, cooperative world. The breathtaking battle sequences showcase enormous traction cities clashing, with special effects bringing the steampunk-inspired aesthetic to life. The vibrant designs of the cities, airships, and machinery are a visual spectacle, immersing viewers in the intricate world Reeve envisioned.

Despite its ambitious scope and groundbreaking visual effects, Mortal Engines struggled to achieve commercial success, earning approximately $83 million worldwide against its $100 million budget. Critics praised the film’s imaginative world-building and visual artistry but pointed to its uneven pacing and underdeveloped characters as shortcomings. However, the performances, particularly Hera Hilmar’s portrayal of Hester and Hugo Weaving’s compelling antagonism as Valentine, were widely acknowledged.