Robert Zemeckis has long been recognized as a pioneer in the realm of filmmaking, seamlessly intertwining innovative technology with compelling narratives. From revolutionizing the animation industry with the spectacular blend of live-action and animation in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” to utilizing archival techniques in “Forrest Gump,” Zemeckis has consistently pushed the envelope. However, his recent venture, “Here,” seems to embody a turning point, where ambitious technology took center stage, neglecting the essential element of storytelling.
“Here” represents a multi-generational familial drama that unfolds in a singular location, capturing moments in time from a fixed perspective. Despite the star-studded cast, including Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, and the revered screenplay by Eric Roth, the film has garnered an overwhelmingly negative response. Critics rated “Here” a paltry 36% on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences similarly expressed their discontent, offering it a B- CinemaScore and a 57% audience rating. The film’s struggling box office performance, opening with merely $5 million, reflects a broader trend for Zemeckis, whose recent projects have not resonated with audiences.
Upon examination, it becomes evident that “Here” suffers from a lack of warmth and humor that characterizes Zemeckis’s most successful works. The film follows a couple trapped in a failing marriage, navigating the mundane challenges of middle-class life. This premise starkly contrasts with the nostalgic charm of “Forrest Gump,” resulting in a viewing experience that feels far from escapist and far too grounded in reality.
During a recent interview, Zemeckis acknowledged the vital role of former Miramax Head Bill Block in bringing “Here” to fruition. Zemeckis stated that it was Block’s vision that made the film a reality, despite the hesitance from various studios to take on such a challenging project. This sentiment sheds light on the inherent risks associated with creating a film that diverges from formulaic Hollywood offerings, especially one that lacks an established domestic distribution strategy.
Interestingly, the financing model employed for “Here” approximated the way many modern films are produced; it heavily relied on foreign sales. This approach, although beneficial, undeniably presents intricate challenges when broad appeal is needed, particularly for an American-centric narrative. Without a clear domestic distributor from the project’s onset, “Here” faced significant hurdles in terms of marketing and audience outreach, complicating its overall execution and reception.
Sony’s decision to shift “Here” from a platform release to a wider release was a strategic response to testing that indicated the film lacked the stamina for a slow build. This maneuver aimed to generate faster returns, allowing the film to transition to home viewing more rapidly—an increasingly popular avenue for films struggling in theaters. Zemeckis’s previous projects, often met with both skepticism and eventual commercial success, may have influenced this decision-making process.
Marketing efforts for “Here” faced a considerable uphill battle. The tonal depth and nuanced themes made it challenging to distill the film’s essence into short promotional clips. Compounding this difficulty was the reliance on the nostalgia elicited by the participation of the “Gump gang,” shining a spotlight on the film’s creative lineage rather than its narrative merits. While connecting with audiences through known actors can be a smart tactic, here it appears to have overshadowed the story itself.
Zemeckis’s attempts at blending pioneering technology with unique storytelling have led to immense creative achievements in the past. However, “Here” serves as a potent reminder that technological advancement, while fascinating, cannot substitute for a well-crafted narrative. As Zemeckis navigates the fine line between ambition and substance, “Here” stands as a testament to the importance of a balanced approach in filmmaking—one that honors both innovative techniques and meaningful storytelling. With an industry hungry for fresh narratives, Zemeckis’s latest challenge offers significant lessons moving forward for filmmakers and audiences alike.