sentimental sap

Rating: 4/10 (21 November 2016)

Most of this film is good. The pacing is steady, thoughtful, and not too busy. Most films (esp. action movies) have rapid-fire takes and assume that a movie is more interesting if they maximize the mayhem. Most of 'Arrival' is more grown up. My objection is the beginning and the end, both of which are packed with sappy sentimentality. I simply don't care about the character's kids; parenting does not make her more interesting or heroic. The film makers might have invested in some humor for this movie; instead they went with empty sentimentality. I suggest that you arrive a bit late, and walk out right after the phone call (you will know what I mean).