Mortal Engines

Mortal Engines is a 2018 post-apocalyptic steampunk film directed by Christian Rivers and based on Philip Reeve’s 2001 novel.

Mortal Engines is a 2018 post-apocalyptic steampunk film directed by Christian Rivers and based on Philip Reeve’s 2001 novel. It is set in a future where mobile cities hunt and consume smaller settlements, and follows Hester Shaw and Tom Natsworthy as they uncover a conspiracy involving London’s leadership. The film was an American–New Zealand co-production and was released in December 2018.

Premise

The story takes place in a post-apocalyptic future where cities have become mobile and compete for resources. The world was transformed by a cataclysm known as the Sixty Minute War. London is depicted as a predator city that threatens smaller communities. The central premise features giant traction cities that move on wheels and consume smaller settlements.

Production

Mortal Engines was directed by Christian Rivers and written by Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, and Peter Jackson. It was made as an American–New Zealand co-production and is based on Philip Reeve’s 2001 novel of the same name.

Cast

The principal cast includes Hera Hilmar as Hester Shaw and Robert Sheehan as Tom Natsworthy, with Hugo Weaving and Jihae among the supporting cast.

Release and reception

The film was released in 2018 and runs 128 minutes. Listed genres include science fiction, fantasy, adventure, and action. It opened in theatres in December 2018.