Review of I Am Number Four (2011) by Christina G — 20 Jul 2012

I have to say I did quite enjoy this. I am partial to the sci-fi genre, but this was better than most of the films being trotted out in that genre these days. Granted I didn't find the villains of the piece threatening at all.

They were almost goofy. I really never felt a sense of menace from them. They never felt like an imminent threat to the hero or the planet and as such it was somewhat difficult to remain invested in the whole proceeding and its outcome.

Also the creatures they unleashed also never seemed quite as terrifying as they should have, it was all a bit cartoonish. What saved it all though was Alex Pettyfer. He really has a naturally commanding presence on screen and truly is a natural as a leading man if this film is any indication.

Carrying a movie is a difficult task for even a seasoned film star but young Mr. Pettyfer does a masterful job. His understated performance at such a young age shows great promise for the actor he will become as he matures.

It was very easy to root for him. Callan McAuliffe started off a bit weak, but became much more enjoyable as the movie progressed. He's a great sidekick for Number 4's character and I'm glad he'll be in the sequel if there is one.

Teresa Palmer was a bit over the top, but she was pretty bad ass as a character so she gets a pass. Jake Abel and Jeff Hochendoner as the sheriff and his son however were almost too much for me to bear.

Particularly the scene where they encounter the aliens, it was a little ridiculous and not over the top enough to become campy so it just ended up being somewhat ridiculous. As a whole however, it worked and was very enjoyable not just for fans of the sci-fi genre but for everyone.

I'm looking forward to the sequel.