Review of Monsters (2010) by Dr. F P — 10 Feb 2013

I think this film will inevitably be compared to "Cloverfield", and although it is of the same genre, they are very different movies. Anyone expecting the same helter skelter thrills of "Cloverfield" will be disappointed.

"Monsters" is a much more subtle, slow-paced, reflective film, which focuses heavily on the nature of our humanity, and of the budding relationship of its two leads. The 'monsters' of the title are merely a backdrop to their hopes, fears and expectations, as they struggle through the jungles of northern Mexico, in an attempt to cross the border into America. It is a tense journey at times, the constant threat of the unseen monsters manifested as deep, unsettling roars within the jungle, and the sporadic sightings of carnage and ruin add to the gloomy atmosphere. Shooting the film on location has added authenticity and therefore believability to the story, and within its framework it contains some scenes of real beauty.