Dramatic science fiction roller coaster

Rating: 9/10 (15 May 2017)

I went into this film aware of its reputation and the praises it received from critics; and rightfully so. The film is subtle and simple, it doesn't blast your senses with a lot of special effects and convoluted plot lines, though it does require you to pay attention. However, it does so in such a way that your attention is held without being overwhelmed. The film conveys a nice balance of tension and drama and portrays a reasonable, real-world reaction to a sudden alien presence. Now, perhaps it was the wine or the fact that I have a young son and am already emotional compromised, but this film had me in tears from start to finish. It hit me on an emotional level but also made me think. The plot focuses on time and communication, both of which are extremely important, and the significance of timely communication. It is amazing to me that the subject of communication and how easily it can be misinterpreted or misunderstood is such a universal thing, and yet people in this world too often don't stop to really think about it. Too many things have to happen on a dime and real conversations are lost within a person's personal desires and views; minds can so easily be changed if we simply take the time to listen and communicate.