This British sci-fi punches well above its budget visually, it’s a shame the drama can’t match it. The set-up is promising: a near-future dystopia where drugs are legal but a black market thrives, cleverly collaged from more Blade Runner-ish parts of London. The story takes a similar approach. Our hero (Elliot Cowan) is a flawed, weary drugs cop, drawn into a mystery involving a corpse, experimental narcotics, corporate conspiracy and time travel – the latter element adding more “gotcha” twistiness than the film needs. Jonathan Pryce’s Russian techno-recluse adds some much needed acting ballast: Cowan’s more a Jason Statham than a Harrison Ford – tough, gruff and up for a fight/chase/shoot-out. Just as well, as there’s plenty of action, handled with some skill. Director/writer Justin Trefgarne could be a name to watch.
