Film Review: District 9

Couldn't see a specific place for film reviews so thought I would plonk this in here for those interested.

District 9

I had only seen a quick trailer and had assumed that this would be a typical Hollywood blockbuster, it isn't - far from it.

Plot summary: It is about an alien race that become stranded on earth (Johannesburg) and how they integrate with the locals.

Starts off in a documentary style where we learn characters and background. At this stage I was thinking: 'What the heck is this, and who is this strange geeky person??'. There is also some interesting funny moments in this section, that although slightly out of place give a good indication of the characters' mindsets. Halfway through the film am still a bit perplexed but am unable to look away from the screen. And then things start to come together, with the documentary style laying a good foundation for character development.

Throughout the film I didn't look away from the screen / check my watch once, which is a good sign for me.

The film does have a satisfying conclusion but they still leave a big opening for a sequel, which I hope they don't do - it would be nice for a film to credit its audience with some intelligence / imagination rather than do the obvious like so many other films.

Verdict: Although the plot is obvious in hindsight, District 9 still manages to grip and grows well from humble beginnings without giving in to the formulaic - 8.5/10.