Great movie. wasn't expecting much...

Rating: 7/10 (25 January 2008)

May contain spoilers.
I don't typically like monster or horror movies. I saw this with my uncle 'cause he wanted to see it. I registered on this site because there are so many people that hated this movie that I just had to voice my glowing review.
The first 20 minutes or so of this movie are all about character development (also, I think we are supposed to be seeing the ENTIRETY of the film in the camera). The back story is touching and I wondered if I would have the courage to search for the one I love if I was facing the same circumstances and didn't even know if she was still alive. Hud, the guy with the camera, was, at times, annoying, but I'm sure most of us are good friends with people like him. I felt connected to them. I think the people complaining about character development were looking for really hot people with some cool one-liners. These characters are much more personal and realistic. Their decisions and actions seemed to be real and rational.
Once the action began, there was non-stop suspense and fear. Not knowing what's out there is much more effective than just explaining it up front. Even though many are disappointed that explanations aren't provided at the end, I think the movie was more effective without them. Do you think people knew what was happening when buildings were collapsing on them on 9/11? This movie intends to put that fear of the unknown in the viewer. Everything isn't always spelled out. However, we can deduce that the monster was either killed or moved on because the film was recovered.
This movie captured me. I was rooting for Rob's, the main character, heroic attempts would eventually pay off for him and Lizzy (i think it was). unfortunately it doesn't. It turns out that Rob probably got the group killed. Sometimes movies end badly. Without variety, everything would be boring.
This movie had more impressive effects than I was expecting for such a low budget film. The scenes of destruction are convincing and chilling (i actually had chills go up my spine). The bridge scene in particular was scary as hell.
I gave this a 7 instead of a higher rating for several reasons.
1. This movie will not be nearly as exciting the second time around. The suspense and the fear will not be the same. I feel a top all-time movie should have great replay value.
2. Mylena. this character seemed pointless, except for a few small laughs. At the beginning of the film, she keeps saying that she doesn't even know rob. Then why the hell is she following him to almost certain doom? what does she care about his quest? I'd be getting the f$%@ outta there.
3. The survival of the helicopter crash was a little too unbelievable. Up to that point, I felt the teams survival was quite believable (with the exception maybe of Lizzy's).
This movie did what any great movie should do. It kept the viewers asking many questions and wanting more. If there is a sequel, I'll see it, but it won't be as "new and exciting" and will probably only serve as an explanation of the monster. Overall...... quality watch.