Review of Annihilation (2018) by Darian M — 07 Mar 2018

As of February 23rd 2018, there are now two movies that genuinely scare me. Pans Labyrinth and Annihilation. The concept of 'the shimmer' presented a terrifying nightmare fueled by science and the unknown and in all honesty, I've never had sweaty palms for so long. The antagonist was refreshingly alien, the lack of intention and confusion presenting a childlike force of rebirth. Though the film could have stood on its two legs with gorgeous visuals alone, every scene was highlighted by an amazing score and sound design. This movie was clearly written for cinema, as I felt utterly encapsulated by noise. Every note demanded my attention.

On the surface, its one of my favourite horror movies - and that's what I thought as I walked out of the theatre. But Annihilation isn't a film that you forget about on the drive home. Or as you lay awake in bed trying not to think about screaming bears (How DARE you, Alex Garland). It demands a closer look and as you pick it apart piece by piece, each element shines under examination. Horror film, trippy science fiction, cerebral film about self destruction; there's something for everyone.