The Greatest Showman #1024 - Edge of Tomorrow

The movie theater was engulfed in an overwhelming cacophony: "Buzzing," "Zizzizi," "Bang Bang Bang." The sounds reverberated through the hall, intensifying and amplifying until every audience member felt the harsh noise assault their eardrums. It was so jarring that the crowd started to panic, murmuring phrases like "screening failure" and "screening accident," filling the air with a sense of unease.

Gavin Hunter, still in shock, couldn't believe what he was witnessing at the Chinese theater during the premiere. A projection malfunction? This was a blow to the movie's reputation and its viewing experience. Although everyone knew the issue stemmed from external factors, the disruption was still hard to ignore, casting a shadow over the atmosphere.

Sitting up straight, Gavin couldn't help but glance around, hoping for a swift resolution. The dim light from the big screen illuminated the audience members, who anxiously looked around, their discomfort palpable.

"…I'm not sure if I can play it out… uh, it's… rustling… accident… a series of explosions… bang…"

Amid the turmoil, a reporter appeared on the screen. His voice slowly became clearer, and the sound of explosions erupted in the background. This sudden shift, with its fluctuating intensity, drew the audience's attention like a lifeline in a world on the brink of disaster. The news report cut through the chaos, offering a brief moment of clarity in an otherwise uncertain environment.

Five years ago, aliens invaded Earth, landing in Hamburg, Germany. Their rapid expansion swept across Europe, with humanity struggling to mount a meaningful defense. The alien forces were relentless and devastating.

Now, the battle had reached France. With the rest of Europe fallen, France became the last bastion, the final line of defense. The aliens' next target: London. After five years of desperate conflict, the Earth Alliance finally secured its first victory in Verdun, France.

Thanks to Major William Cage and the newly developed battle armor, a super soldier was born. Rita Volatowski became the first "battle angel," leading the coalition forces in their victorious campaign. Verdun marked humanity's first triumph, raising morale across the alliance.

Emboldened, the alliance formed a plan to push forward: build an elite team equipped with cutting-edge armor, infiltrate Paris, and prevent the aliens from crossing the English Channel. Their mission: stop the invasion before it could spread further.

Gavin's mind was racing. Was this all part of the plan? Had the chaotic sounds and disruptions in the theater been designed to create tension, pulling the audience deeper into the experience? Was the entire premiere a carefully orchestrated setup to immerse viewers in the world of Edge of Tomorrow from the very start?

It had to be. The gradual build-up from soldiers and wreckage to the malfunction of the auditorium itself seemed too well-timed. This wasn't just a screening; it was a psychological journey, guiding the audience step by step into the movie's universe.

Gavin's realization only made him more intrigued. If this was intentional, then today's premiere was nothing short of revolutionary.

But there was no time to dwell on this theory, for the film had finally begun. The two main characters had made their grand entrance: Major Cage, portrayed by Renly, and the Angel of Verdun, played by Jennifer. They immediately captivated the audience, drawing everyone into the narrative. Gavin, at least, was hooked.

Major Cage's first appearance was nothing short of magnetic. Charismatic, suave, and effortlessly charming, Renly's portrayal of Cage elicited excited gasps and sighs, especially from the female audience. The male viewers, on the other hand, let out exasperated groans at the character's charm, prompting a ripple of laughter throughout the theater.

Jennifer nudged Renly playfully, her chin raised with a knowing smile. Renly, ever the professional, simply raised an eyebrow and whispered, "Wait for it."

However, Major Cage's debut took a sharp turn. Once a civilian and now thrust into the frontlines of war, Cage was a salesman who used his silver tongue to manipulate his way to the top. His real achievements? None. His true motivation? To avoid the war, earn promotions, and live a comfortable life. He was a coward, a self-serving opportunist, willing to undermine the general to preserve his own safety.

When Cage thought his manipulation had worked, the general had him arrested instead, humiliating him in front of everyone.

The theater erupted with laughter.

Cage was an unlikable character, and audiences reveled in seeing him taken down a peg. Gavin, however, was struck by the irony—Renly, usually known for heroic roles, was now playing a cowardly, almost comedic figure. It was a surprising choice, especially for Renly's first lead in a commercial film.

Cage's next awakening found him disoriented and handcuffed on a recruit training bag at Heathrow Airport. This was no longer the world he knew. The frontlines awaited, and soldiers were gearing up to cross the English Channel and enter France to fight the aliens.

His first instinct was to escape, pulling rank as a major and attempting to manipulate his way out. He tried to convince Sergeant Farrell to help him reach Washington's headquarters.

But Farrell saw through his ruse. Calmly, Farrell read Cage's punishment order aloud: "It seems that what you said, only your name is true. According to this order, you're a deserter. You're under arrest for impersonating an officer. You've endangered operations, threatened safety, and done everything to avoid combat. But none of that will help you escape now. Private Cage."

As Farrell delivered the punishment, the audience burst into applause and laughter.

The humor in the scene wasn't slapstick; it was a product of the characters' chemistry. Renly and Alexander's banter was sharp and filled with a subtle wit that made the audience chuckle despite the tense situation.

Gavin had to admit, the opening of Edge of Tomorrow was a masterstroke. The humor came naturally, blending seamlessly with the plot's progression. The realism of the shots, reminiscent of Paul Greengrass' style, grounded the film's doomsday scenario in authenticity, heightening the suspense while keeping the focus firmly on the action.

As Farrell guided Cage to meet the rest of the J team, the screening hall buzzed with anticipation. Much like the star-studded Avengers, the J team's members were a collection of recognizable faces. Although their appearances were brief, the film's rapid editing showcased each character's confrontation with Cage. They taught him harsh lessons in combat and teamwork, delivering an unforgettable education.

The fight sequences were quick and efficient, with Cage left dazed and covered in dust after each round. The audience couldn't help but laugh at his expense.

Gavin couldn't help but admire the group dynamics. The editing, sharp and concise, had a touch of David Fincher's style, while the characters, each defined by their desire for victory, reminded him of Aaron Sorkin's brisk dialogue.

Yet, as much as Gavin appreciated the fast-paced humor and tight editing, he couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. Why were the characters so well-drawn despite their relatively small roles? There were no superheroes here, no major celebrities, just a solid ensemble cast. Was this a deliberate choice by the director, or a flaw in production?

His thoughts were interrupted by the escalating war.

The battle had begun.