Originated as a MTV animation series, “Aeon Flux” hit theaters last Friday starring a svelte Charlize Theron. This sci-fi flick takes place 400 years from now after 99 percent of the world’s population has been wiped out by disease.

The last existing city, Bregna, was created by a scientist, Trevor Goodchild (Marton Csokas), who created the vaccine to save the remaining 1 percent of humanity. Their city is surrounded by a giant wall to protect them from what they are told is dangerous, and they are raised to believe that theirs is the perfect society and that it is right that Goodchild and his brother Oren rule the city. Most residents do not question this way of life, but there is an underground rebellion, the Monicans, that believe all is not right, and they are determined to overthrow the Goodchild dynasty. Aeon Flux is their best fighter, and has been given the mission to kill Goodchild.

My expectations for “Aeon Flux” were rather low going into the theater for a couple of reasons. First of all, I’m not a big fan of science fiction movies. I liked Star Wars, but I’d rather see a drama or comedy over most sci-fi movies. Secondly, I heard that there was no pre-screenings for the press. If you don’t know, most movies are screened for the press ahead of time so they will promote the movie. The movies that aren’t pre-screened usually indicate a less than stellar flick, and distributers don’t want to give the press an opportunity to bash it before it hits theaters.

I have to say though, as far as sci-fi movies go (and my limited experience with them), “Aeon Flux” wasn’t as terrible as it could have been. Some of the sets were really cool, with smooth lines and vivid colors. Charlize Theron was as sexy as ever and clearly enjoyed her role. Her black unitard looked uncomfortable, but I guess they figured it would help diminish wind resistance for all her leaps and flips she does throughout the film. Aeon’s friend and cohort, Sithandra, is played by Sophie Okonedo (“Hotel Rwanda”). Plus the film was a mere 90 minutes which is short in comparison to most films coming out right now.

There were holes in the plot, however, that might be explained if you are familiar with the animated series. A few times I felt they used futuristic effects to announce to viewers, ”Hey this is a science fiction movie!” almost in the way you might show a baby something shiny to get them to stop crying. Frances McDormand, who plays the Handler for the Monican Rebellion, was apparently brought on simply so they could use her name. Her role as a robotic-esque leader who simply gives instructions in an eerie, white room could have been played by anyone who can deliver lines in monotone.

It isn’t the worst movie I have ever seen, and if you liked the animated series then you should probably check it out. On the other hand, those not into sci-fi, don’t bother.

* 1/2

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