Gothamite Film Fest 2024

Film Review: Surge of Power: Where There’s Smoke

Directed by Vincent J. Roth, Jeff Rector, Mario DeAngelis 

The latest installment in the *Surge of Power* series, *Where There’s Smoke*, delivers yet another action-packed, star-studded experience for superhero fans. The film brings together a cast of beloved faces from the worlds of science fiction and superhero lore, offering both spectacle and nostalgia for those who love to see iconic characters from past franchises join forces.

In this chapter, Surge, our main hero, teams up with The Smoke, played by former pro wrestler Eric Moran, to unravel a conspiracy led by the villainous organization known as The Council. Along the way, they face off against the mysterious and tragic figure, Falling Apple, a woman driven by a need for vengeance due to her troubled past. As the plot unravels, Surge receives guidance from Omen, whose role is shared by the late Nichelle Nichols (best known for her portrayal of Lt. Uhura in *Star Trek*) and Robert Picardo (The Doctor from *Star Trek: Voyager*). This gives the film a lovely tribute to sci-fi fans who remember these legends.

The ensemble cast further impresses with appearances from Bruce Vilanch as Janus, Shannon Farnon voicing MAVIS (the Wonder Woman of the *Super Friends* cartoon), and Joseph Culp as Spade, the same role he played in the 1996 *Fantastic Four* film. Newcomers such as Tim Russ (Tuvok from *Star Trek: Voyager*), Sam J. Jones (Flash Gordon), and Stephanie Ahn (Falling Apple) bring fresh energy to the expanding *Surge of Power* universe, ensuring a wide range of characters and personalities that can appeal to any viewer.

The film’s dynamic focus is on character-driven moments as much as it is on the action. At its core, *Where There’s Smoke* isn’t just about superhero battles and outlandish powers; it’s about people working together to overcome the odds and heal from the scars of their past. The troubled backstory of Falling Apple, shaped by trauma and loss, provides a gripping emotional anchor amidst the chaos of superhero antics.

The direction, led by Roth, Rector, and DeAngelis, allows the balance of humor, action, and heartfelt moments to shine. There’s an undeniable charm in how they infuse each scene with lighthearted fun while weaving in messages of hope and resilience. The film thrives in its celebration of both the genre and the heroes that make it unforgettable.

What *Where There’s Smoke* does particularly well is its ability to entertain without taking itself too seriously. It’s a throwback to the campy fun of classic superhero TV shows and movies, while still offering enough modern-day thrills to keep the audience invested. It’s a film made for fans of the genre and those who appreciate the playful side of superhero storytelling.

In conclusion, *Surge of Power: Where There’s Smoke* continues the franchise's legacy of blending nostalgia with fresh faces and compelling storylines. The film is an enjoyable ride for fans of both the superhero and sci-fi genres, thanks to its cast of beloved stars, engaging narrative, and genuine heart. The franchise is proving that there’s still much more to explore in the *Surge of Power* universe, and *Where There’s Smoke* sets the stage for even more exciting adventures ahead.