Film: Arrival

GENRE: Sci-Fi, Drama

RATING: PG-13 for some language
RUNTIME: 1 hour and 56 minutes

STARRING: Amy Adams (American Hustle, The Fighter, Doubt)

Jeremy Renner (Avengers), Forest Whitaker (The Butler)

DIRECTOR: Denis Villeneuve (Sicario, Prisoners)

WRITER: Eric Heisserer (Final Destination 5, Lights Out)

PLOT: A linguist is asked to assist in translating alien communication to determine if they are here for peace or war.

FULL DISCLOSURE: High expectations due to others praising the film.

STORY STUFF: This was not your typical alien invasion flick. For example, the ships don’t appear over major national landmarks. This film went the intelligent route. It made perfect sense that you would get a linguist to help determine alien language. Actually, I love how this film mixed languages with science. As a teacher, it is cool to see cross-curricular scenarios actually work. I did find that the pace was a little slow at times but the overall story had a fantastic pay-off.

ACTING STUFF: Amy Adams has the perfect mix of curiosity, confidence and emotion. I assume she will get some award recognition for this portrayal. And there’s something about Jeremy Renner. He’s just so down to earth and relatable. He has this sense of intelligent calm that makes you root for him every time; and I’m not only talking about this film.

ARTISTIC STUFF: There are some beautiful shots throughout this film. And I love the symmetry of shots between the two time periods. The other thing that stuck out for me was the sound. It plays such a huge role. I also assume it will be up for some Oscars for this audio work. Nicely done.  

VERDICT: Four stars out of five

SEE IT IF: You enjoy intelligent science fiction.

UPCOMING REVIEWS: Jackie