If you’re a fan of thrilling adventures and ancient curses, you probably had your hopes up when The Mummy (2017) hit theaters. Starring the ever-charismatic Tom Cruise and the hauntingly mesmerizing Sofia Boutella, this reboot of Universal’s classic monster franchise promised to bring a new dimension to an age-old tale. But did it deliver? Let’s dig in—no cursed tomb required!

Plot & Storyline

At the heart of The Mummy lies the ancient princess Ahmanet (Sofia Boutella), who was betrayed and buried alive thousands of years ago. Fast forward to the modern day: Nick Morton (Tom Cruise), a reckless soldier-of-fortune, stumbles upon her tomb during a mission in the Middle East. Instead of leaving well enough alone, he unleashes her vengeful spirit upon the world.

The film blends modern action with supernatural horror, taking us from dusty Egyptian crypts to bustling London streets. The stakes? A dark prophecy, a soul-consuming curse, and an epic clash of fate and free will.

Strengths & Highlights

• Sofia Boutella as Ahmanet – Let’s be real: Boutella steals the show. Her portrayal of the vengeful princess is both elegant and terrifying, bringing a chilling grace to the film’s most intense moments.

• Action Spectacle – As you’d expect from a Tom Cruise flick, the action sequences are jaw-dropping. From crashing planes to tombs filled with reanimated horrors, the movie never skimps on the adrenaline.

• Mythology Meets Modernity – The film’s attempt to weave ancient Egyptian mythology into modern-day chaos is ambitious and visually striking, making for a fun mashup of genres.

Where It Falters

However, despite its star power and high-octane stunts, The Mummy (2017) struggles to find its soul:

• Confused Tone – It tries to be everything at once: part horror, part action, part buddy comedy. This jumble of styles leaves the film feeling… well, a bit cursed. The comedic banter doesn’t quite gel with the ominous atmosphere, and the horror feels tacked on rather than fully embraced.

• Thin Character Development – While Nick Morton’s journey is meant to be one of self-discovery and heroism, it often feels overshadowed by endless exposition about the “Dark Universe” (Universal’s ill-fated attempt at a shared monster universe).

• Comparisons to Previous Films – It’s hard to watch without thinking about the beloved Brendan Fraser-led The Mummy (1999), which balanced humor, horror, and heart with far more success.

Visuals & Atmosphere

Credit where it’s due: The Mummy (2017) is visually stunning. The cinematography captures the eerie grandeur of ancient tombs and the chaotic energy of Ahmanet’s curse wreaking havoc in London. The film’s aesthetic is sleek and shadowy, and the visual effects deliver some memorable set pieces.