A thought-provoking sci-fi tale.

Rating: 7/10 (17 June 2010)

District 9 is a unique experience. I'd describe it as political sci-fi action faux-documentary thriller. If that doesn't qualify as unique, I don't know what does.
Another simpler way to describe it is that it's a good sci-fi movie. District 9 poses the question of what would happen if some relatively unimpressive aliens were forced to find refuge in South Africa. There's lots of exploration of themes like xenophobia, exploitation, bioengineering and weapons ethics, among others. The best science fiction movies always seem to find a way to tackle a complex subject or two, without beating the audience over the head with it. District 9 (along with Moon) is a good recent example of that.
Don't fall under the impression that this is some cerebral think-piece, though. There's lots of action. In nearly every scene, there's some small (or huge) bit of interesting visuals going on. From the design and animation of the aliens, to their technology and various explosions and gun battle set-pieces, the special effects are universally impressive. Especially for the relatively small budget that the picture was made with.
I heartily recommend this to almost anyone. District 9 is a very entertaining movie that can offer you more, if you choose to ponder the topics it raises. And if you just want to see stuff get blown up, it'll still have you covered.