Review of Arrival (2016) by Nicolas W — 23 Sep 2018

On the strength of the director Denis Villeneuve's repertoire, more specifically his previous outing Sicario (my favourite film of 2015 hands down!) and with a age old movie premise and a stellar cast ,this academy award nominated movie is one that had intrigued me before viewing and left in awe long after. This director is undoubtedly on top of his game (Blade Runner 2049 promises great things in his hands!) and this movie is another shining example of the impressive catalogue being constructed by this maverick movie maker!

The film itself deals with twelve mysterious spacecraft's arrivals across the globe. A cross section skilled team--lead by expert linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) are brought together to investigate the reason behind their visit. As the world teeters on the brink of global war, Banks and the team race against time for answers.

What transpires is a Spielberg/Nolanesque two hour emotive, powerful and visually stunning piece that is lifted to extra heights due the extraordinary performance of Amy Adams (how she wasn't nominated for this is simply beyond me!) who brings both strength and vulnerability to her magnificent role!

Twists and turns aplenty the viewer is constantly engaged and the spectacular cinematography also adds to the wonderful film on show.

Quite simply a must see experience, a film with lofty ambitions that it pulls of quite brilliantly!