A nifty little throwback with some modern touches

Rating: Null/10 (14 August 2011)

IMAX REVIEW: *** out of (****)
J.J. Abrams' 2009 action-heavy extravaganza ("Star Trek") was a refreshing summer blockbuster that was not only dependent on special effects but a well crafted script and performances as well. This summer, Abram's "Super 8" is the same deal. Except it includes some nods to "E.T." and "The Goonies" for added measure.
"Super 8". Think of it this way: Copy and paste the monster from "Cloverfield", make it less ominous looking, add the last 30 minutes of "E.T.", spice in some "The Goonies", add the government interference and BAM! You have "Super 8".
Since there's been so much positive buzz from Abram's latest project, what are some of its flaws? First and foremost, the clichés. While this is an incredible piece of fiction, the amount of clichés is just unbearable. The adults being oblivious, the government subplot, the love interest, the climactic ending. It's all there. And also, for a film about us trying to have sympathy for the kids, they weren't exactly the friendlist or most caring people. It was hard to have a heart for them when they themselves didn't have one.
Now, onto the positives. First off, the acting is pretty top-notch. Even the people you can't just stand give it their all. Moreover, the film is entertaining from start to finish. Every shot keeps you immersed and drawn in. Oh and did I mention the train wreck scene? That has got to be THE scene of the summer. It was so competently made and authentic that it sent chills down my spine, especially in its IMAX glory. Furthermore, when the film builds suspense, it doesn't just build it. It makes you FEEL the suspense. It's almost secondary. I was literally on the edge of my seat at some moments. And lastly, the nods to the older movies was very classy and well done.
In a time where disposable trash like "Transformers" gets green lit, it's nice to see something like this get out to the public. What J.J. Abrams has crafted is beautiful. While it isn't the masterpiece we were all expecting, it's still a solid movie nonetheless. And hey, doesn't every movie have its flaws? Flaws and all, this is one hell of a movie. Thumbs up for J.J. Abrams and his crew.