The Fly meets Independence Day meets ET = SUCCESS

Rating: 8/10 (7 September 2009)

Even though I had heard good reviews, I resisted knowing a thing about this and went in cold. What unfolded was one of the more gripping cinema experiences I've had in years.
If I had to use one word to describe the film, it would be "intense". The scope of the film covers such a broad array of real-world topics (as any good sci-fi does), ranging from racism, to animal testing, to genocide, famine, corporate war-lust, the list goes on. But the beauty of District 9 is not its political overtones, but rather its emotion. It's able to wrap all these elements together in a very compelling and believable way. Of course it takes a few Hollywood liberties, but they are NOT cheap and you find yourself almost feeling senses of relief when they occur.
Nothing about this film feels rushed or overdone. Everything unfolds very organically and there are enough story devices at work that you will have a hard time second guessing what will happen next. This is an exceedingly rare quality in film today.
The CGI effects are sound and I can't applaud Sharlto Copley enough for his performance. His character portrayal is stunning in its scope and depth (plus some great dry, awkward humor) and this role will certainly put his name on the map.
Last comment - even though there is plenty of brutal violence, the film never holds your nose to it...just enough to make you squirm a bit. I will say that it is not a film for everyone.
Both the premise and execution of of District 9 were ambitious, and in the end, wildy successful. This film will be discussed for years.