The Wandering Earth II (12A)
Directed by Frant Gwo

THIS is the prequel to one of China's highest grossing sci fi films which again centres on the Earth’s race for survival in the wake of an environmental doomsday scenario.

Within a hundred years the expanding sun will engulf the planet and to avoid Armageddon the world’s nations have to join forces to build powerful engines on the surface to propel the Earth to safety. How do they convince people to act now to help save generations yet to come?

Sound familiar?

Co-writer/director Frant Gwo returns once again for this high octane, non-stop-action, and visually arresting prequel set in 2044 and in which the Chinese space/tech teams show the western nations how it is done as they take the lead. They show how honour and duty is paramount as everyone is obliged to play their patriotic part.

If, at three hours long, it tests the patience this is a nail-biting and thrilling ride, and you do not need to have seen the original film to understand the story. And stay alert for subtitles that go by at breakneck speed, sometimes making it is hard to stay abreast of what is going on.

Definitely to be seen on the big screen.

Out in cinemas today.