Monday, August 17, 2009

District 9 - Smart Science Fiction

In the recent flood of high-tech effects movies there is no shortage of eye popping effects, but what has been missing is a real plot. All the 3-D in the world can't make up for a poor story. Luckily the latest film from director Neill Blomkamp has a great story and the special effects in this case make it possible.

The insect-like creatures derogatorily referred to as "prawns" in the film would not be possible or believable without the artistry of an army of digital artists. They have done their job so well you forget the creatures are not real.

The story is profound in its examination of xenophobia and apartheid. It is a long way from ET to District 9 and that is a good thing. The film is not for kids by any stretch of the imagination, but it will keep adults enthralled. I was on the edge of my seat for much of the film and when it was over I was exhausted. Everyone at the theater I attended went out saying the same thing. "District 9 is the best science fiction film in decades."

I put this on the list right in front of the other sci-fi sleeper this year, "Moon". Though Moon is a much slower paced movie, it was equally enjoyable and thought provoking and that is what the best science fiction does, make you think!

1 comment:

Lex Divinia said...

I agree!
On BOTH movies!

I was impressed with the realism in District 9.
And Moon was just intriguing all the way around!