Creative quotient
Jumper is the story of a young man David Rice (Hayden Christensen) who is able to teleport himself to any location on the planet, one that he’s seen or has an image of in his head. His radical ability suddenly crops up and leaves him in a daze.

To figure out what’s going on, he runs away from home and looks to understand his unique condition. He perfects the use of his ability and uses it to rob banks. But, quite soon he is chased and trapped down by a group of aggressive people looking to kill him. When he runs into another guy with the same ability, he discovers his powers are a result of a genetic anomaly and such powers have been around for centuries.

The other jumper, Griffin (Jamie Bell) explains to him the concepts and tells him that the men trying to kill them are known as paladins. Headed by a strongly prejudiced man Roland (Samuel L Jackson) the paladins turn out to be a covert group of highly-organised and well-armed men.

The chase begins as David and Griffin try to outrun and outsmart the resilient paladins, who make use of advanced technological equipment to even the playing field with the jumpers.

Technical expertise
The film is far from being a superhero flick. Traditionally, characters with super-powers like that of jumpers are shown with big consciences and they realise they must help mankind with their gifted abilities. But, David in Jumper uses the best of his ability to rob banks and even land others in trouble.

Perhaps that is the underlying message of the film, but even so it is not put forth with considerable conviction. The only time one feels this message is established is when David watches flood victims on the news and switches the TV off. And also when Roland tells a trapped David, “You are an abomination of God. You use your abilities only for your needs.”

The action in the film is about people having the ability to transport themselves. As unique as it sounds, it is a visual treat. No second guesses about the fact that the CGI in the film is top-notch. The action, adventure and the fairly sprinkled humour make the film entertaining.

The screenplay and plot developments keep the audience glued, but it all fizzles out in the end. The reason being, Jumper is made to lay the foundations of a franchise. The narrative meanders around the creative concept touching only on peripheral elements as the filmmakers want to show more in the film’s sequel. Because the film does not give one enough to relate with its characters and story it leaves a sour taste in the end.

Verdict
Jumper is worth a watch but it’s not worth any critical acclaim. The film’s special effects and innovative take on super-powered humans is worth two stars.