Sci-Fi Classic in the Making

Rating: 10/10 (15 August 2009)

I really enjoyed this movie! As a sci-fi fan, I haven't been impressed with a lot of movies in the genre as of late. Good thing District 9 came along-- this film reminds me of how cool sci-fi movies can really be if executed properly.
I won't summarize the plot again, as other reviews have already done this. Suffice it to say that District 9 gives a fresh take on the humans vs. aliens plot line. We're not the ones being pushed around this time. The story is engaging on many levels, and provides a social commentary on interracial relations.
The special effects are awesome! The best thing about the alien effects-- from the creatures, to the weapons, to the vehicles-- is that they don't have a fake feeling about them. Too many SFX heavy movies nowadays look good but they just aren't very convincing. The SFX artists of District 9 did a fantastic job of making everything look gritty and real. One of the highlights of the movie for me is the part where they feature an alien robotic suit/vehicle that is armed to the teeth with alien weaponry. That was definitely a treat! Mecha/robot fans like me will love it for sure. District 9's robot shows that a Votoms, Armored Core, or Robotech/Macross-type movie is possible! The actors in the movie did an impressive job, especially Sharlto Copley, who played Wikus, the lead character in the story. He doesn't come across as your action-hero type leading man, but he did a really great job coming across as the unwitting hero in story.
Now I understand why Peter Jackson got involved with this project. Although he is not the director (Neill Blomkamp is), he must have been impressed by the story and the ideas behind District 9. I'm glad he did, because it is clear that in the production of this movie, money was spent on its polished look and feel.
I really hope this movie does well in the box-office, because it really is a great movie. It would be nice to see where they take the story if they ever do a sequel. I recommend to everyone to go see this...you will not be disappointed!