Review of Midnight Special (2016) by Trina B — 08 Apr 2016

Grade: A-.

In a Nutshell: This sci-fi surprise is a fun road trip mystery. Indie director Jeff Nichols is a compelling storyteller that allows the audience time to figure out what is going on while the film races along. I really like it when a director doesn't spoon-feed the audience. As the plot unfolds, you'll see magical elements of E.T.,The Extra-Terrestrial , Close Encounters Of The Third Kind , and even Starman .

Marketing for this film was minimal, so this little gem may pass you buy.

Uplifting theme:

"Sometimes we're asked to do things that are beyond us." - electrician.

Sacrifice for those you love.

Family, parental bonds of unconditional love.

Trying to understand one's true identity.

Things I liked:

There are some cool special effects, like when the satellite debris hits the ground and sprays all over a gas station, as well as other things Alton can do.

Good for Adam Driver for having 2 movies out in theaters at the same time. Yep, he plays Kylo Ren in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (Plus Bonus Features) . Nope, he doesn't throw a tantrum in this film.

Jaeden Lieberher is adorable and does a great job playing Alton.

The effective musical score adds suspense from beginning to end.

There's an interesting element that refers to a savior and a heavenly plane: higher beings who watch over us, but we can't see them. You get to see the beings of light, sort of, who are peaceful and good....kind of angelic.

It's impressive how much can be done with such a low budget.

Michael Shannon is captivating as a devoted father who will do anything for his son.

Things I didn't like:

We haven't seen Kirsten Dunst in a while. She wears no make-up and has gained some weight, playing a devoted mother. I guess it really has been a long time since that upside down kiss with Spider-Man .

SPOILER: The buildup is fun and mysterious, but then it simply ends in a clichéd car chase.

Funny lines:

"Is it too much to ask you to punch me in the face? No? Never mind." - Paul Sevier.

"Could we go back to Texas now?" - Lucas.

Interesting lines:

"The only thing I ever believed in was Alton" - Roy (Michael Shannon).

"You don't have to worry about me." - Alton.

"I like worrying about you." - Roy.

Tips for parents:

It might be a little too mature and intense for young children. Older teens will enjoy watching the story unfold as they find out who/what Alton Meyer is.

Some profanity and violence.

Discussion of cults and faith.

A really bad car accident roughs up some people, but they don't die.