Review of District 9 (2009) by Evan A — 15 Jun 2013

Any normal director can go out with an average budget ($200 million or so) and make an action or sci-fi film that gets mixed reviews and is top on the box office list. Generally these films rely on flashy effects, well-known stars, copious amounts of violence, and a plot with just enough detail to actually say that there's something holding it together.

District 9 could (by all accounts) be my favorite science fiction movie I've ever had the privilege to feast my eyes on simply because it takes the liberty to be more than better. The originality alone will catch you off guard, not to mention the execution of its fast-paced and exhilarating story.

Though the film has a cast of stars that few have heard of, the acting is superb and could launch some new careers. And while relatively low budget, District 9 takes advantage of opportunities whenever given the chance to great effect.

It provides a spectacular and dazzling variety of computer generated effects that are both detailed and unique. Accompanied by these effects is an abundance of gleefully bloody violence that defiantly entertains.

At its core though, District 9 is not just a good alien flick. The film's sci-fi background is the perfect cover for its powerful and mind-opening messages about discrimination, segregation, and brutality.

Easily one of the smartest films in decades, District 9 is tremendously exciting, cleverly written, stylishly presented, and always gripping. This wild ride is destined to become a sci-fi classic!