Review of The Arrival (1996) by Tracy W — 11 Jan 2013

What if aliens planned to colonize earth ? Would they view us humans as a species to be subdued or they would rather prefer to settle peacefully with humans sharing the resources of this planet ? In case they wanted to subdue us, would they do it by using brutal force as e.g. in the 'War of the Worlds' or other more indirect (but more effective nonetheless) means ? 'Arrival' is a film that depicts aliens already present on earth and working on their plan for domination.

Charlie Sheen plays astrophysicist Zane Zaminsky who struggles to survive in science since he is getting paid by short-term grants that are about to expire. From his scientific observations he picks up a signal that leads him to aliens already present on earth. Sheen is a good actor and portrays the curious astrophysicist well enough with a charming touch of a slight paranoia and some beliefs in conspiracy theories. Sheen goes to the extremes to prove his point first to his girlfriend (played by Teri Polo) who initially distrusts him and then to his bosses in the observatory.

The film has a strong b-movie character and I think that's the reason it is more entertaining given the subject; it takes more liberties with the script and even if the situations are a bit over the top sometimes they are still suspenseful.