As the space ninjas, Bryan Tiang proves most effective. His characters have no dialogue, but the way he moves is effectively creepy, and the stunt work he pulls off throughout is exceptional. As the “John Hughes homage” Mr. Hughes, Hashim is okay. He is having fun and works well with the more humorous side of the character. But once things turn deadly, he doesn’t sell the fear.
Shauki as Tammy is not never good. While her character’s writing is some of the strongest, she is not too convincing here. I would bet that the actress is incredibly nice and sweet in real-life. Why do I say that? It is because the issue with her that she is never believable as the biting, mean girl type the character is written to be. She fares better during the more contemplative and quiet parts, but she does not sell the spoiled, entitled angle in any way. Bin Amri as the jock seems bored throughout. He never proves to be a compelling screen presence and fails to bring any energy to the role.
“…the acting…is all over the map.”
McQuaid’s screenplay excels in another area as well. That is taking the absurd premise at face value. Space Ninjas is not without its levity of course, but the character arcs and idea that space ninjas are invading them is played with a straight face. This allows for the weight and consequences of the night’s actions to pull the audience in. But, even better than that is McQuaid’s stylish direction.
While a few scenes are a little too dark, Ganesh Venugopal’s cinematography is resourceful and usually makes up for the lack of resources. Stanlei and Zack are talking about after school plans, only for something to drip onto them. They quickly get out of the way as the giant, JRPG inspired sword of a space ninja comes slicing down right where they just were. The shot composition in this scene is fantastic. The action and stunts throughout are great and make for an energetic watch.
Space Ninjas has flaws, most notably in some of its cast. But, here’s what you need to know about it: Godfrey Ho has a two-minute cameo. That right there will either sell you on it entirely or let you know to steer clear at all costs. For those seeking the title out, be prepared for impressive action sequences, a high level of imagination, and surprisingly deep characters.
"…people who upon hearing the title Space Ninjas shake their heads..."
