Siberia 56

In this visually evocative interstellar adventure, a mission to the icy planet Siberia, Earth’s 56th colony, meets with disaster caused by the alien mysteries that the planet harbors. The story functions like a high-budget science fiction spectacular, presenting amazing locations and technology that dazzle the eyes, but sometimes falling flat in terms of its story. Bec’s (Cathargo) script keeps the action focused on survival on the dangerous planet and the human interactions, which lack personality or real drama; the strange creatures, remarkable landscapes, and mysterious structures are never really utilized for their potential wonder. Sentenac’s grand vision of the planet is the real star, but ultimately, as with many French graphic novel imports, the visuals suggest more than the script delivers. (Apr.)