Review of Children of Men (2006) by Jackson M — 11 Aug 2014

Alfonso Cuaron's "Children Of Men" contains such a strong potency because it shares a resonance to the present. Whether it be the parallels of paranoia towards government dictatorships, refugee camps and foreign prejudices or the internal conflicts that echo the images of the recently occurring Israel/Palestinian clash, Cuaron's sci-fi becomes continually disturbing with each passing year. And while many of these themes have been explored before ("Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" being the latest), "Children of Men" contains such a stronger punch simply due to the look of the film. Set in the futuristic London (and with half the budget of most blockbusters), Cuaron has ditched the CGI effects usually associated with the sci-fi genre for a desolate and harrowing set design that seems utterly real. The substitution of such special effects is crucial, not only does it enhance the viewing experience, but also contributes the scary reality of Cuaron's vision not merely being a work of fiction, but rather a possible prophecy.

While all this sounds rather pessimistic (which it is), the narrative arc of Theo (Clive Owen) provides the emotional core. A cynical man in a cynical world, the combination of such elements could of made this feature a drag. But nevertheless, with the help of a brilliant low-key performance by Michael Caine, there is great chemistry shared between both actors and some much needed humour. And while Theo is a character surrounded by violence and desolation, the film never forgets the poignant moments that provide a crucial connection for the audience (his final gesture is simultaneously melancholic and uplifting).

Furthermore, the main contribution to the realness of the film is Cuaron's direction and his ability to situate the audiences within the action. Opening with a riveting explosion that sets the tone for internal conflict and paranoia that the world inhabits; a great panning shot within a car that perfectly reflects the disarray of a harrowing attack by savages and a memorable tracking shot that echoes Kubrick's direction in "Full Metal Jacket" to represent the fine line between life and death in combat, Cuaron continually proves his ability as a director of action. And most importantly, the director does not self-indulge in this visual trickery, but rather only uses such directing techniques when needed to enhance the viewing experience. Essentially, "Children of Men" offers all the best qualities of the sci-fi genre and displays Cuaron's amazing capabilities as a director.