Not quite a movie, more of a ride. An awesome, hugely immersive ride. But be sure to watch it in theaters, it won't be the same on DVD.

Rating: 9/10 (19 January 2008)

Cloverfield is a lot like a simulator ride with elements of a movie. It still is one of the scariest experiences in a theater I ever had.
The whole movie is shot like a homemade camcorder movie, and this is implemented perfectly. This isn't like the Bourne movies, where the camera loses it just when the action is getting good. The filming is much more realistic, and the cameraman's hand shakes a lot more, but it steadies itself when looking at important things, like the monster. The camera-work is so realistic it will put you right in the middle of all the action. This is probably the scariest part of the movie, because you think you're there. Way more immersive than any simulator ride I've ever been on. Never leaving the camera's point of view makes it an experience not unlike Half-Life.
The movie takes a while to get off, and spends some time introducing you to the characters. This is time well spent, as the backstory plays a big part later on. Also, you'll come to like the characters as you try to survive the ordeal together. The action starts at the perfect time, and rarely lets up after that. The dialogue is very believable (or believable enough, considering the situation), and never pulls you out of the immersion.
Overall, Cloverfield is definitely a movie I would recommend for anyone who wants to get their heart pounding for 80 minutes non-stop. I strongly urge you to watch it in theaters as it is an important part of the experience. The sound makes the theater rumble as debris hits the ground. The 50 foot screen makes you feel like you're seeing it with your own eyes. If you can see it in IMAX, even better. But don't wait for it to come out on DVD, because no matter how big your TV, it won't be the same.