Summer Movie Bar Has Been Raised

Rating: 10/10 (11 June 2011)

I find going to the movies to be among life's greatest treats. For me, there are few things as enjoyable as a trip to the theater. That being said, my enthusiasm for movie watching has been ratcheted up significantly by my newly appointed "go to" movie date.
My son and I have been watching movies together for the better part of the last six years but recently, at 9 years of age, he's taken an interest and I feel that he is mature enough, to go with me to a wider variety of films.
I preface my thoughts regarding Super 8 with these nuggets because, at a time that I am introducing my son to film, it reminded me of why I love movies so much.
JJ Abrams has created a "Speilbergian" adventure that touches and thrills. Super 8 is not without imperfection but the minor issues that I saw as flaws are so insignificant that they aren't even worth mentioning.
The cast is remarkable. The children are fun, funny and believable in their roles. I could watch these kids have lunch at a diner any time, even if they weren't discussing fascinating plot points. The movie makers capture dialogue between kids in a way that immediately brings you back to that stage of life. We all either fit the bill ourselves or had friends that fit reminded us someone in this gang.
Kyle Chandler is at his Friday Night Lightiest, as the Deputy Sheriff and resident distant Dad.
Joel Courtney (Joe) is this generation's Elliot. It is a timeless performance by a new young actor that I hope to see for some time to come.
Elle Fanning (Alice) is.. perfect.
The story is a mix of the best aspects of Cloverfield, E.T., Goonies and The Iron Giant. The action sequences are fantastic, brace yourself for the train scene. You care about the characters and their well being, a Spielberg staple, and a rare occurrence in today's summer movie world. Then of course there is the "visitor" that the movie is centered around. No spoilers here, trust me that part is good too.
This is a movie to make time for. If you have plans, change them and run to the theater. Tell your friends to do the same. If you can see it in an IMAX theater, even better. You will not regret it the couple extra dollars.
Those of us who go to the movies with their family. We will all benefit from a movie like Super 8 being wildly successful. Super hero movies are fun, Pixar is breaking new ground every year but movies like Super 8 have been sorely missed.There are good movies you can take your family to but this one is great and I can only hope that there will be more like it.