Promising start, frantic middle and muddled ending

Rating: 6/10 (15 April 2019)

Annihilation was always going to be an ambitious task, adapting Jeff VanderMeer's defining novel into a suitable cinematic experience. On initial viewing, you think this has been accomplished: swathes of exotic environments, bright colours and curious organisms fill the scenes, providing a surreal but ominous backdrop for Lena (Natalie Portman) and her expedition. Some of the graphic effects are amazing, fully conveying their intended dread. However, as the story progresses, this magic begins to be lost - only so much CGI can be used before becoming oversaturated, a gamble which this film decides to risk.
In terms of acting, the all-star cast (Portman, Oscar Isaac, Tessa Thompson) all lend their own devices to building suspense and mystery, with Portman being given the bulk of the difficult material. This becomes difficult to appreciate, however, after the plot begins to give way to gratuitous violence and fight scenes. Soon after, the story seems to fall apart completely, culminating an an ending that is as dissatisfying as it is nonsensical. Annihilation is worth watching purely to give credit to the visual effects on show, not to mention if you are partial to a sci-fi flick. Beyond this, however, a shallow plot prevents this film from really separating itself from mediocrity.