Friday, January 25, 2019

Movie review: Occupation

 
 After watching Earth for centuries, aliens have arrived with a fleet of ships to seize control of our planet as their own. As alien soldiers launch a war against humanity, a group of people from a small town band together to battle the invaders.

Dan Ewing (Matt), Temuera Morrison (Peter), Stephany Jacobsen (Amelia), Rhiannon Fish (Vanessa), Zac Garred (Dennis), Izzy Stevens (Bella), Charles Terrier (Jackson), Charles Mesure (Arnold), Felix Williamson (Seth).

Occupation begins well enough with character introductions and some background around the small town in Australia where the story takes place. Their local factory closed, a highway bypass being built around the town, it seems things could not get worse yet they do when aliens invade.
As the townsfolk band together to battle the aliens Occupation starts to look a lot like Red Dawn. Another 30 minutes into the film and Amelia could be a twin for a hero in Fallen Skies. Realizing how little originality is included here the ending became immediately obvious and expected.

Acting was mediocre. Ewing was okay but didn't seem able to hold the lead. Jacobsen obviously wanted the lead but didn't know what to do with it. Fish was decent, as was Garred and Stevens. The remainder of the supporting cast was okay.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are low-budget but okay. CGI and action were both lacking somewhat with a rudimentary feel. Dialogue was dry and could have used more depth. Sound and soundtrack are mild but fitting.

Unless you are a die-hard sci-fi fan, skip this one. The film brings nothing new to the genre, recycles scenes from previous films, and lacks serious depth. Those who enjoy Australian films or B-movie sci-fi may enjoy this one.

With a bit of violence, foul language, and aliens, this should be fine for mature teens and above.

Released: 2018
Reviewed: 1.7.19
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Australian Films, Indie Action, Action Sci-Fi, Drama

copyright ©2019 Dave Riedel

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