Total Recall (2012) is a sci-fi action film and a remake of the 1990 cult classic. Directed by Len Wiseman, this version offers a fresh take on the story, while drawing inspiration from Philip K. Dick’s short story We Can Remember It for You Wholesale. Although the film follows the same basic premise as the 1990 film, it updates the setting and visual effects, offering a more modern, dystopian aesthetic.

Overview:

• Director: Len Wiseman
• Starring: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel, Bryan Cranston, and Bill Nighy
• Release Date: August 3, 2012
• Genre: Sci-fi, Action, Dystopian

Plot Summary:

The story is set in the late 21st century, after Earth has been ravaged by chemical warfare, leaving only two habitable regions: the United Federation of Britain (UFB) and The Colony (formerly Australia). Douglas Quaid (Colin Farrell) is a factory worker living in The Colony who is haunted by vivid dreams of being a spy. Feeling dissatisfied with his mundane life, Quaid visits Rekall, a company that offers clients the ability to experience fabricated memories.

During the procedure, something goes wrong, and Quaid discovers that his life may be a lie. His memories are erased, and he may have once been a spy working for either the UFB or the rebels fighting its oppressive rule. Pursued by government agents, including his own wife, Lori (Kate Beckinsale), who is actually a UFB operative, Quaid teams up with rebel fighter Melina (Jessica Biel) to uncover the truth about his identity and stop the UFB’s authoritarian plans.

Key Differences from the 1990 Version:

• Setting: While the 1990 film is set on Mars, the 2012 remake is set entirely on Earth in a futuristic, dystopian society divided between the wealthy UFB and the impoverished Colony.
• Tone and Aesthetic: The 2012 version adopts a more polished, high-tech visual style, with sleek cityscapes, hovercrafts, and advanced technology. It focuses more on a cyberpunk feel than the grittier, more surreal tone of the 1990 film.
• Character Changes: In this version, Lori (played by Kate Beckinsale) has a more prominent role as the primary antagonist, pursuing Quaid relentlessly. The character of Cohaagen (played by Bryan Cranston) is portrayed as the political leader of the UFB.
• Themes: The film still explores themes of memory, identity, and reality, but with more emphasis on the socio-political dynamics between the UFB and The Colony, reflecting class struggles and authoritarian rule.

Visuals and Action:

The 2012 Total Recall is praised for its cutting-edge visual effects and action sequences. It features fast-paced chases, intense fight scenes, and large-scale futuristic landscapes. The film showcases an impressive dystopian world, with towering skyscrapers, advanced transportation systems, and a society dominated by high-tech gadgets.

Reception:

The film received mixed reviews. While many appreciated its visual spectacle and Colin Farrell’s performance, others felt it lacked the unique charm and depth of the 1990 original. Critics also pointed out that, despite its modern look, the remake was less adventurous in exploring the philosophical themes of identity and memory manipulation. The action-heavy approach, though exciting, was seen by some as sacrificing the complexity of the story.

Conclusion:

Total Recall (2012) is a visually stunning, high-octane sci-fi thriller that offers a fresh take on the original story. With an updated setting and modernized action sequences, it provides an exciting ride for fans of futuristic action films. However, it may not fully satisfy those looking for the philosophical depth and originality that made the 1990 version a classic.