Sometimes, all it takes is an interesting storyline to make a great film. But add a stellar cast, amazing effects and mix in some nostalgia, and the result is must-see “Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.”

Written and directed by Kerry Conran, the sci-fi thriller is an awesome tribute to the 1930s, thriving on nostalgic themes of Superman-like cartoons.

Jude Law is the dashing Joe Sullivan, otherwise known as Sky Captain. As a pilot, Joe’s duty is to safeguard the skies of Gotham City.

Polly Perkins, played by Gwyneth Paltrow, is Joe’s ex-girlfriend of three years and a reporter for the New York Chronicle. As a devoted journalist, it seems that there is nothing Polly is not willing to do to get the story.

After an army of giant robots suddenly invades the city, Joe reluctantly teams up with a story-hungry Polly to try and learn the source of these monsters.

Together, they soon learn that the creator is none other than Dr. Totenkopf, a sinister scientist convinced that mankind’s mistakes have doomed them to destruction.

Totenkopf is determined to recreate a new Earth and civilization in his “World of Tomorrow,” destroying the current world and all who live on it in the process.

When Joe’s right-hand man and good friend Dex, played by Giovanni Ribisi, is suddenly abducted by Totenkopf’s minions, Joe becomes enraged and ever more determined to find his friend and murder the ominous scientist.

On their request to find Totenkopf, Joe and Polly’s past relationship is revealed as well as the reason for their breakup, which eventually becomes a running joke of the film.

Despite their past, Polly is undeniably still attracted to Joe, an affection that only grows stronger as the movie progresses. Likewise, Joe finds himself softening toward Polly, often becoming protective of her.

Romantic tensions escalate with the introduction of Franky Cook, Joe’s comrade and commander of an air base hidden in the skies. Played by Angelina Jolie, the strong-minded Franky is a past romantic involvement of Joe’s, much to Polly’s chargin.

In one scene, Franky risks her plane and life to ensure Joe’s safety. An awed Polly breathes, ” She’s some kind of girl,” to which Joe awkwardly replies, “I know.”

Besides the romance, the unique way the film was made allows it to shine. Filmed without sets, Conran uses computers to recreate a 1930s New York as well as scenes from Nepal, the air and the sea.

Taking the audience back in time, Conran’s use of monochrome in the movie also adds to the smoky and mysterious tones of the film, giving off a resonance that is present only in old movies like “Casablanca.”

But despite the film’s old feel, it also has very modern elements as well. Totenkopf’s numerous robot fighters are very futuristic, like something out of a “Star Wars” film.

Franky is also represented as ultramodern; besides having control of a flying air base, she is represented as a very independent woman, right down to her eye patch.

Another aspect of the film that was admirable were the amazing periodical costumes used, especially on Joe and Polly’s characters.

Though simple, their attire helps bring out the best of the era. Polly plays her part well as a detective in a trench coat and wide-brimmed hat; Joe is likewise convincing as pilot in his flight jacket and air goggles.

A captivating movie to watch, “Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow” is a must-see.

The only disapointment would be to miss it.

On Screen

What: “Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow”: Inspired by pulp sci-fi comic books, giant robots, led by Dr. Totenkopf, invade New York. It’s up to the Sky Captain to save the city.

Rated: PG

Starring: Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Giovanni Ribisi.

Bottom Line: The only disapointment would be to miss this film.