Friday, July 19, 2019

Movie review: Annihilation

 
 Biologist Lena finds herself joining an expedition with three other women scientists to explore a mysterious, dangerous area, controlled by the government, in which the laws of nature are warping.

Natalie Portman (Lena), Benedict Wong (Lomax), Sonoya Mizuno (Humanoid/Katie), Jennifer Leigh (Ventress), Gina Rodriguez (Anya), Tuva Novotny (Cass), Tessa Thompson (Josie), Oscar Isaac (Kane), David Gyasi (Daniel).

Annihilation launches with some backstory that shows us the strange event creating a space on Earth where the laws of nature don't apply, and pulling Lena into the search for answers. She quickly joins a team of women entering the unusual area and finds that not only are plants and animals effected by the phenomenon, but humans are as well. The journey is an interesting mix of an apparently long abandoned landscapes punctuated by beautiful genetic abnormalities. And with some twisting of time, the story gains some depth. As the plot deepens the suspense and mystery build a bit and things get more interesting through the expected ending.

Acting was okay with Portman delivering nicely. Leigh was a bit disappointing, feeling like she phoned this one in. Rodriguez was a bit disappointing, feeling scattered like she didn't know her character. Novotny was solid, as was Thompson and Wong. Isaac felt detached but it seemed to fit his role.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are what really made this film. The storyline is okay, but the CGI and effects are wonderfully done with a wide variety of visuals that really brought the depth of the story to life. Dialogue was okay but could have provided more. Sound and soundtrack are mild.

On most levels Annihilation is a mild sci-fi flick with a fairly common storyline and mediocre acting that never really develops deep energy. Where the film does shine is the CGI and effects which are very nicely done throughout. Those who enjoy visuals as much as a story should enjoy this one.

With some sexuality, graphic violence and gore, mild foul language, and depictions of self harm, save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2018
Reviewed: 7.19.19
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Sci-Fi Drama, Sci-Fi Horror, Adventure

copyright ©2019 Dave Riedel

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