For a mainstream supernatural-fantasy war film, Spectral is curiously devoted to rhapsodizing about science, and considering the moral implications of scientific discovery.

It's a cracking sci-fi military mystery that apes from various genres whilst yet never feels overly familiar. The ensemble cast works wonders and the special effects are in the same class as most big blockbuster flicks.

The battle scenes are frenzied with edge-of-your-seat excitement, and unlike so many other war-themed movies, no clear-cut direction pointing to just how this movie will end.

Instead of going for huge stars, awkward and unneeded backstories, and bloat, Spectral manages to pack in just what a viewer needs to enjoy the plot and journey placed before them.