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Wednesday, November 9, 2011

[7.50/10] Attack the Block (2011)


Attack the Block (2011)

Brief review: Joe Cornish's debut full-length feature, the absolutely refreshing "Attack the Block", surprised moviegoers around the world with its cool premise, spot-on execution and high entertainment value. It works as both, a sci-fi action flick and a horror comedy, because it never takes itself seriously, it's fast-paced, humorous and full of wit, and at times quite intense and even frightening. Although the characters are a bit stereotypical, they're so likable and nicely-written, you can't help but feeling connected to them. Considering its budget of (only) $13,000, "Attack the Block" looks surprisingly good, visually. TV series director Joe Cornish provides us with wide variety of camera angles and dynamic camera movements to keep us engaged and drawn into the action. The action scenes themselves are exciting, energetic and well-shot. The settings are the typical British suburban, but the stylish cinematography makes them look very atmospheric. The special effects are a bit cheesy at times, but still incredibly effective. The creature itself doesn't impress with an amazing design, as it's literally a black, shaggy, wolf-looking beast with glowing neon jaws, however it is something we've never seen before, cool, creepy, mean, ferocious, and unique in its own way.

Overall summary: Smart, thrilling, original and stylish, if not necessarily mind-blowing, "Attack the Block" is a true breath of fresh air into the 'alien invasion' sub-genre, and a proof that British film-makers haven't run out of creativity, and still have a lot to offer to the world of cinema.

15 comments:

filmrruss said...

Nice review, glad that you liked it. I'm not sure I agree about the characters being likable though. I do agree that they are well written and so the viewer becomes connected with them; but I feel that this is in spite of them being a bunch of un-likable, anti-social "hoodies"

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Russ, thank you so much, mate.
As for the characters, I guess it's a matter of personal opinion. Yes, most of the characters were dodgy cynical bullies, but they were still likable to me. And I think it's hard to be connected to the characters if they're just an anti-social "hoodies" as you called them. :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

I wanted to see this movie, but it never came to a nearby theater. Looks like fun. Can't wait to see it!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Prasetyo, thanks for the kind words. I have problems opening your blog though. :(

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Alex, rent it on DVD or add it to your NetFlix queue. It's a lot of fun and very entertaining indeed. ;)

HorrO said...

I considered this just a fun movie. The constant upbeat music kind of had me dancing the entire time. I wish I saw it in theaters with a better sound system. Great review!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

I saw it on plasma TV and was thoroughly entertained by it. Thanks, buddy! Glad you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Maynard Morrissey said...

a true breath of fresh air indeed. brilliantly entertaining from beginning to end, I loved it!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Well, considering your high rating, I didn't enjoyed it as much as you did, but found it unique and very entertaining. :)

Kaijinu said...

Black piranha-gorilla hybrids Aliens! What could be better?

I wasn't expecting a good horror flick watching this but damn! That was awesome!

✗✗ said...

I totally forgot about this film! I'm really glad to see a good rating on it. I will definitely rent this now especially after reading your wonderful review. I can't believe the budget was only $13,000-unreal. Makes me that more excited to see it.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Kaijinu, I wouldn't describe it as a horror flick, but it worked great, that's for sure. :)

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Nicole, did you? Although I wasn't blown away by it, I found it very entertaining and well-made. Give it a shot as soon as you can. I bet you'll enjoy it.

Unknown said...

I have never heard of this, but I will have to check it out. Your review makes it sound like one hell of a good time. :)

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Mel, it got a limited release in the US and will be out on DVD soon I think. It's a fun ride for sure. Give it a shot.