An exceptional and revelatory sci-fi film that leaves its impact long after the film is finished

Rating: 8/10 (25 April 2020)

First and foremost Arrival strives at providing a riveting, complex and unconventional story (written by Denis Villeneuve and Eric Heisserer) for the genre itself that brings along many intertwined elements, whilst simultaneously grounding the story in enough realism to portray it's ideology and messages effectively to communicate with the viewer. At the forefront of the film, Amy Adams as the linguist Louise Banks is incredible as it is relatable, highlighting her already seen talent in her possible career best performance.
The soundtrack and audio are masterful, with the use of diegetic and non-diegetic sound providing much of the atmosphere and ambiguity in the film. The soundtrack and sound design entangle in an almost grey area that leaves the viewer wondering the source of what they're listening to, ultimately making the Aliens feel more real and alive as a result. Moreover, the orchestral pieces spread out across the film provide the viewer with an emotional touch for Louis and her experiences throughout the film, bringing the viewer closer to the character and to the contemplative nature of the film and it's broader themes of time and memory.
Finally the cinematography (completed by Bradford Young) is alluring and magnificent, and paints the picture of the scenes within the film beautifully and elegantly with awareness of contributing to building the world, characters and story. Young's masterful approach elevates the story with newfound emotion, typically with the shots of Louise contemplating the mortality of her own daughter Hannah. Furthermore, Young's impressive genius at portraying this world through a lens continues with the use of softness and distinction within the lines and the characters of the film. This creates the notion or notion of a portrait within the movie, that of which the characters and their memories are painted on. Ultimately, this is one of my personal favourite examples of cinematography within a film and one example that I will always bring up when asked about expertly curated cinematography.
In conclusion, Arrival is a timeless piece of stunning and brilliant cinema that is relatable and heartfelt with its themes of how we communicate and are bonded together by our own memories and past, and the effect that can have in the span of our lives.