Scary, humorous, poignant and full of heart.

Rating: 9/10 (2 July 2011)

From J.J. Abrams, the man who brought us the labyrinth TV show "Lost" and the superbly revamped Star Trek, comes the sort of adventure that Spielberg would've made in his early days. It's not surprising then that the legendary filmmaker was a producer on Super 8 as well as someone who Abrams admits was a massive influence not only on this film, but his whole career. Following a group of teenaged mates in small town America in '79 who are trying to make a DIY zombie flick but become embroiled in a military operation gone astray, Super 8 is scary, humorous, affecting, adrenaline-pumping and poignant, whilst boasting an absolute bucket-load of heart. Abrams' meticulously selected youthful cast are pitch-perfect too, all of them balancing naivety and strength with measured care. Do yourself – and your kids – a favour; seek out time to see Super 8 these holidays.