Excellent storytelling. It's the kind of movie Spielberg would make in the 80's.

Rating: 6/10 (10 June 2011)

I like this movie. I really do, honest. Most of the blockbusters are mostly solid while most of the others are ho-hum. However, J.J. Abrams has performed a summer movie miracle. In the process of creating a homage of Steven Spielberg movies, he has crafted an extremely entertaining film that has a heart as big as its thrills.
I won't describe the juiciest bits of the story here, since they'll spoil the public. All I can tell you is that it's about kids making a movie using their Super 8 camera, something mysterious happen, strange things start to happen. Having said that, the screenplay is well written, most notably the dialog by the children which is funny, witty and engaging. I especially admire the children's attention to detail - like finding production value for their movie. The way they make their own little movie is a touching, heartfelt ode to the filmmakers who also started out that way. Makes anyone, young or old, want to make their own movies again if they haven't already.
It's an amazing feat when all of the child actors perform especially well in their roles, and actually make you care about them, and bring you into their adventure. I really hope all child actors will get good, promising careers in the future. In addition, it's nice to see Kyle Chandler on the big screen again.
Abrams pulled it off here, not only in writing the screenplay but directing the movie as well with care and focus. He has direction that would make Spielberg proud. Of course, with Spielberg himself producing the film it's no surprise that the entire film feels like a genuine Spielberg movie, the kind of adventure movie that he would make before "Schindler's List" changed him into a bona-fide serious filmmaker (not that that's a bad thing). We've come a long way since adventure films like "E.T." and "The Goonies", but Spielberg and Abrams prove that old school works, and works well. The well-rendered CGI and some spectacular action sequences are actually overshadowed by the mystery, story and characters, proving once again that eye candy is no match for a big heart and good ol' fashioned storytelling.
With good cinematography, production design and a John William-esque score by Michael Giacchino, "Super 8" is the best of the blockbusters, maybe for the summer, maybe for 2011 itself (I still patiently await Spielberg's own "Tintin"). One thing's for sure, in terms of pure entertainment, this is perfect. It has that rare blockbuster movie magic, and I would not be surprised if "Super 8" was nominated for Best Picture at next year's Oscars. No, I'm not joking, and I'm certainly not exaggerating.
If J.J. Abrams can keep this up, he would be a potential successor to Steven Spielberg. And lastly, stay for the credits.
Overall rating: 86/100