Review of Super 8 (2011) by Gustav W — 08 Mar 2013

This starts out very well. A good atmosphere, a brilliant late 70's setting. Inside it all a surprisingly good cast is fitted, all of them acting well above the standard for their age. Especially great is Elle Fanning who proves the Fanning family name still is a force to be reckoned with. Credit goes to J. J. Abrams for setting style, detail and emotion into every scene, which adds well to the magic.

The plot starts off great and magical as well and uses the mystery/adventure scenario well, adding most of the normal fixings with good finesse. Sadly, it just turns a tad bit much in the end. More than a tad maybe as the mystery turns into a rather silly run-around that ends with little more than a sigh. A great shame in an otherwise great tale.

Bottom line: Impressive mix of atmospheric mystery and good acting in a slick and detailed setting. Sadly a ship that sinks as it takes off in the final act.