Movie review: Evolution

When a meteorite crashes to Earth in Arizona two college professors investigating the object discover it contains microscopic alien life-forms. But the life-forms don't stay microscopic for long, growing exponentially and becoming hostile, drawing the attention of the government and military.

David Duchovny (Ira), Julianne Moore (Allison), Orlando Jones (Harry), Seann Scott (Wayne), Ted Levine (Gen. Woodman), Ethan Suplee (Deke), Dan Aykroyd (Gov. Lewis), Pat Kilbane (Officer Johnson).

Evolution begins with some interesting action that sets the satirical tone for the film. As initial character introductions take place the plot begins to unroll and we are launched into a ridiculously funny sci-fi plot that provides more than a few laughs while being strangely engaging. The imagination of creatures is interesting and amusing while the humor is well placed and persistent. The film finishes with the requisite Happy Ever After ending and a hint that things might not be over yet.

Acting was pretty good with Duchovny doing a decent job of humor delivery. Moore was mild but good in something of a straight role, and played well with Duchovny. Jones was a nice addition and delivered some of the best humor in the film. Scott was in-type once again and as usual, pulled it off nicely. Suplee was a nice surprise with nice presentation and humor. The remainder of the cast was funny and enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were well done with nice use of scenery and good variety. The film depends heavily on CGI which while entertaining, wasn't without some flaws. Perspective was way off in several CGI scenes, and most of the creatures were obviously very animated, but rather than detracting the flaws actually added to the humor. Dialogue was campy, corny, and amusing. Sound and soundtrack were both good.

When Evolution finishes evolving the result is a light-hearted, crotch-humor laden, CGI intensive film with some good laughs and enjoyable acting. Fans of the sci-fi satire genre should enjoy this one. Those looking for something more serious, or with extensive depth, may be disappointed.

With plenty of crotch humor and sci-fi action violence, this one is actually fine for teens and above.

Released: 2001
Reviewed: 1.1.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Alien Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi Satire, Comedy, Spoofs, Sci-Fi

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel