Super 8 is the reason why I see the movies

Rating: 10/10 (14 June 2011)

Super 8 is not what the trailers build it up as—another science-fiction end of the world scenario. J.J. Abrams has something much more unique and surprising in mind. Abrams focus is not the visual effects; they are actually kept to a minimum, but rather the characters and the plot. I did not recognize any of the actors, but all of them perform flawlessly, especially the kids. They are so amusing to watch on the big screen, as well as engaging. When they laugh, you laugh with them. When they are in danger, you feel that anxiety. When they are in pain, you feel it—and it hurts. If there was a best ensemble cast award, this feature should win it. If I had to pick the best of all of the actors, it would Elle Fanning—though very unlikely, she deserves an Oscar for her performance.
I will admit that J.J. Abrams seemed to borrow some elements of other films, such as: E.T., War of the Worlds, The Goonies, Signs, and Transformers. Even so, this film stands as its own and it is not a ripoff, like some of the more newer sci-fi releases. It is a creative and a special film to watch. Abrams even ties in some powerful symbolism and themes into this film without getting preachy—I will not give these or the story away, for they are that good. One thing that some people may not like about this film is how loud the sound design is. It is really loud, particularly with the jump moments and a train crash sequence. I personally don't like deafening sound in theaters, but this technique by the sound designers and editors fits the film perfectly—the movie would not have had such an impact without this approach.
In short, "Super 8" is the reason why I see movies. It has believable, compelling performances, sublime film-making, a creative story, and it is well-paced. There is also plenty of action, suspense, drama, and humor. This film is also beautifully photographed, with awesome sound, and Michael Giacchino's best score to date. If you have lost faith in Hollywood's release of movies, see Super 8. J.J. Abrams has a shot to revive the film industry from the dumper that it has been heading in for the last decade.
Rating: ****/****