The film is not currently streaming anywhere but fans have a chance to see the underrated gem
A ‘original’ sci-fi film penned by the writers behind the ‘best horror movie ever’ is set to air on television tonight.
The film, 65, first hit screens in 2023 and offers movie enthusiasts the perfect way to kick off their extended bank holiday weekend. According to its synopsis, the narrative follows a solitary pilot named Mills, who after a devastating crash, finds himself on an uncharted planet.
He swiftly realises he’s actually stranded on Earth… 65 million years in the past. With just one opportunity for rescue, Mills and the sole other survivor, Koa, must traverse an unfamiliar landscape teeming with hazardous prehistoric creatures in a monumental battle for survival.
Those wishing to catch the film can do so tonight (April 2) from 9pm on Film4. Viewers should ensure they tune in to avoid missing it, as at the time of writing the title is not currently available on any streaming platform. Alternatively, audiences can catch it on Film4+1, where the film will commence an hour later at 10pm, reports the Mirror.
Adam Driver, renowned for his portrayal of Kylo Ren in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, heads up the cast as Mills, alongside Ariana Greenblatt as Koa. Greenblatt, a former Disney actress, has since featured in Barbie, Borderlands and Now You See Me Now You Don’t.
The film was penned and helmed by the writing duo Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. The pair are best recognised for crafting the original horror thriller A Quiet Place before passing the franchise’s creative reins to John Krasinski. They collaborated again on Heretic, with audiences hailing both their spine-tingling works as ‘one of the best horror movies ever’
However, 65 didn’t replicate the box office triumph of their earlier work. It generated just $60 million globally against a $45 million production budget. Despite receiving a rather disappointing 35% score on Rotten Tomatoes, numerous viewers insist it merits attention.
One critic, revisiting the film, offered a reassessed perspective on its value several years following its debut.
The film provides a gripping sci-fi survival tale where action propels a story of solitude and human connection. Enthusiasts of creature features and suspense will value its compact structure, emphasising impact and rhythm, mirroring the legacy of dinosaur films that have consistently occupied a distinctive space in blockbuster entertainment.
Numerous viewers go as far as completely rejecting the unfavourable critical assessments. Its economical 93-minute duration is also praised as a welcome alternative to enduring a lengthy marathon viewing experience.
One enthusiast went as far as declaring it the “best dinosaur movie ever made”, with numerous viewers drawing comparisons to its superior action sequences when stacked up against the Jurassic World franchise. Another viewer enthused: “This film deserves 10 STARS!!! Instant Classic!!!”
A further viewer proclaimed: “This movie checked off all the boxes. Space travel, dinosaurs, suspense, emotional connection, and Adam Driver! It doesn’t waste any time grabbing your attention, and the compelling story line is a great ride all the way through.”
Not everyone is in agreement, however, with some expressing disappointment primarily with the film’s conclusion. Others contend that 65 was denied a fair opportunity at the box office, having been released alongside major franchise blockbusters such as John Wick 4, Shazam 2, Scream VI and Creed III.
Perhaps the most glowing endorsement came from one viewer who commented: “Think Jurassic Park but much better and believe me when I say a lot better. This is that rare science fiction action movie that people have tried to make but didn’t get it right. Here, they finally not only got it right but they excelled!! Plus, real life marine Adam Driver is top notch in a really exciting movie.”
65 airs tonight at 9pm on Film4.



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