The Best Film of 2009

Rating: 10/10 (11 August 2013)

A not-so-subtle science fiction parable on South African apartheid infusing stranded aliens known as the derogatory "prawns" trying to get home. I'm no fan of science fiction and I do not think I'd call the genre beautiful, but District 9 defies the genre in that way. It embodies horror, comedy, drama, and romance under this science fiction saga.
Blomkamp crafts a brilliant story and manipulates its viewer throughout the film. At first, these prawns look like animals and are almost revolting to look at. Yet, at the end of the film they become human, both in their actions and in their physical appearance. No longer do they look repulsive at sight. Furthermore, while the apartheid theme is not subtle at all, the viewer still realizes the horror of the movement.
The journey, presented wonderfully as a documentary, of Wikus Van de Merwe, our main character, is though provoking and thrilling (and Copely portrays his struggle perfectly). The visuals are incredible as well, and unfairly overshadowed by those of Avatar, considering the $30 million budget.