I was so happy to see this film on the list of nominees. There was, of course no real chance of it winning, but if Avatar was going to be nominated, this film should definitely be included. This film is what Sci Fi is really about. While Avatar was a stylized, high-handed, overblown, unsubtle commentary on a subject no one is unaware of that follows every plot formula, flat character and obvious camera work in the book, District 9 is a fresh, raw, unapologetic look at an issue that nearly all societies in today’s world faces in an unexpected way that utilizes believable characters, experimental film techniques and collaborative efforts from bright young artists from all disciplines.
This film is a commentary on the racism and apartheid seen throughout history and which can still be found world-wide. What makes this such an effective analogy is the fact that it is still believable. This film takes place today and so it can comment on current issues plausibly whereas when a Sci-Fi film takes place in the future like Avatar does, it should either show an optimistic view of the heights man can achieve when they work together, like Star Trek, or should show the horrific depths that will result from not resolving the issues of today by exaggerating them, like A Clockwork Orange. It is very believable to me that if helpless aliens arrived on Earth today it would not be over New York, D.C. or even London and that they would be immediately segregated, heavily regulated and tested by the government who uses fear and ignorance, albeit based slightly on fact, to keep the aliens hated by the general populace.
The beginning of the film was done in documentary style which is something a lot of filmmakers are playing with these days. It lends a sense of immediacy as well as takes the pressure off for bringing big dramatic scope in the cinematography. It also allows for a convenient explanation of the history involved while simultaneously affording opportunity for characterization. This film was also all adlibbed as far as dialogue and character reactions. This also made the film seem more real and immediate.
The most impressive thing about this film to me was the incredible character of Wikus and Copley’s portrayal of him. When I say “incredible” I don’t mean that Wikus is a hero in shining armor that saves everyone, instead, he is a flawed, sometimes pitiable character who reacts to his extraordinary circumstances in very ordinary ways that are sometimes much less than admirable. Because of his relatability, the viewer roots for Wikus even when his actions are disappointing. This movie put Sharlto Copley on my radar and you should watch out for him too. His next film was The A-Team where he stole the show. Keep your eyes peeled because I know we haven’t heard the last from this silly, but brilliant South African actor!
My opinion in a nutshell:
Entertainment- 6- If you love the non-sop action and bad-ass characters and yippy-kay-yay lines, you might be a bit disappointed in this film. It does take a while to get going since the beginning is a bit information-heavy. But if you like a thought-provoking look at a possibility presented in a different way, then this is the film for you! Also you may need to pay extra attention since everyone speaks with a South African accent.
Award-Worthy- 8- While this movie is impressive in many ways from the concept itself to the performances, it is a bit rough around the edges. This is writer-director Neill Blomkamp’s first feature-length film and while many of these ill-fitting edges are what makes this film so endearing, it also leaves room for Blomkamp’s improvement and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!
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