“Ender’s Game“ is set in the future as Earth prepares for war against an alien army that had attacked years before and killed tens of millions of people. Since the first attack, the “International Fleet” has been preparing young people to be generals. The main protagonist, Ender Wiggin (Asa Butterfield), is heralded as one of Earth’s last best hopes.

I have not read the book, so I went to “Ender’s Game” with expectations of a good sci-fi film. I came out the screening impressed and looking forward to the future of the franchise. The effects were well done, the acting was excellent, and I enjoyed the story but the film had a few flaws that keep it from being a much better film. The ending surprised me, though, adding a well done message to the film that doesn’t come off as forced or preachy.

The acting was very well done throughout the film, especially Asa Butterfield as Ender. Butterfield is not a big guy, but he delivers his performance in a way that makes Ender’s gained respect believable. Even the scenes in which Ender is being talked down to, Butterfield does his job well enough so it seems like Ender still has the upper hand.

Viola Davis was also excellent as Major Gwen Anderson, especially later in the film when she is concerned with Ender’s performance in a mind game. Harrison Ford plays leader Colonel Graff — his and Davis’ characters play off each other very well. Both characters have different ideas on what children are capable of, and both actors deliver.

Although I found the story of Earth versus the Formics interesting, I felt like the film did not give enough time to the first attack to let the massive losses of the battle really sink in. I think a film of this magnitude would have been improved by another hour to flesh the world out a little more.

I was really impressed with the visuals in this film, especially the rotating battle dome the recruits train in. Although “Gravity“ did space much better, the practice battles in the dome still seem realistic and are done well.

Overall, I enjoyed “Ender’s Game.” It could have used a bit more background and character development, especially with Ender’s family, but as a whole the film works. Impressive visuals, a well written story, and some excellent acting by Butterfield all make “Ender’s Game” worth the price of admission.

4/5