Mortal Engines is a bold, visually ambitious sci-fi adventure set in a future where the world has been ravaged by a cataclysmic war. The result? A new order where massive cities have been mounted on wheels and roam the Earth, consuming smaller settlements in a ruthless game of survival. Based on the novel by Philip Reeve and produced by Peter Jackson, the film blends steampunk spectacle with a classic tale of revenge, revolution, and redemption.

The story follows Hester Shaw, a scarred and fiercely determined young woman who is out for vengeance against Thaddeus Valentine (Hugo Weaving), a powerful and cunning leader of the predator city London. After a failed assassination attempt, Hester reluctantly teams up with Tom Natsworthy, a young historian from London who is suddenly thrown into the wild, dangerous world outside the mobile cities. Their journey takes them through sky cities, underground rebel strongholds, and terrifying remnants of the old world — all while the monstrous machine of London hurtles toward a war of annihilation.

Visually, Mortal Engines is a feast. The CGI work is stunning, especially in the design of the moving cities, the massive airships, and the haunting landscapes of a ruined Earth. The world-building is rich and layered, with every frame filled with details that evoke wonder and danger. It’s a film that dares to imagine a world far beyond our own, one that is both beautiful and brutal.

While the plot follows some familiar young-adult beats — rebellion, hidden pasts, reluctant alliances — it’s elevated by strong performances. Hera Hilmar shines as Hester, bringing intensity and vulnerability to her role. Robert Sheehan (Tom) provides warmth and humanity, while Hugo Weaving delivers a reliably charismatic villain. One of the standout characters is Shrike, the undead soldier who raised Hester — his storyline adds unexpected emotion and tragedy to the narrative.