Annihilation

Starring: Natalie Portman, Oscar Isaac, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Tessa Thompson, Tuva Novotny, Benedict Wong
Directed by: Alex Garland
Rating: R
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Horror
2018

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A small group of scientists venture into a mysterious area to explore its origins.

Review:

Tim: I thoroughly enjoyed Jeff VanderMeer's odd, unexpected Southern Reach trilogy, so I was pretty excited that the first book, Annihilation was adapted into a feature film. I was even more excited when I learned Alex Garland would direct it. His directorial debut, Ex Machina was one of my top 10 favorite movies of 2015. What's interesting is that Garland strays far from the original book. Some of his choices I loved (they improve on the novel) and others were okay. It's pretty shocking that I would enjoy a movie that departs so substantially from the source material, but that is what happens here. I truly view Annihilation the movie and Annihilation the book as two completely separate entities. They have some similarities, many differences, and both are excellent in their own ways. What VanderMeer did with his book worked for the book, but much of it wouldn't translate onto the screen. Similarly, Garland delivers a great science fiction movie, but some of his choices here wouldn't have worked on the written page. Garland manages to do enough to connect this movie to the source novel, but certainly turns in an original work of his own.

The movie does retain the basic structure of the book. A group of female scientists venture into Area X and enter The Shimmer. The Shimmer as a moniker wasn't used in the book, but I love it. The Shimmer is this unexplained (although the movie does heavily hint at its origin) area that several groups have entered, and yet none have returned (except for one person, but even that is questionable). The movie works because of the coolness of this mystery. What is The Shimmer? What happens to people once they enter? The area is growing as well- what does that mean for the planet and the dominate form of life on it? This central mystery is a fascinating one and we go on this journey of discovery with the scientists. Inside The Shimmer is fascinating. I loved the explanation for the phenomenon there, as well as the bizarre and unexpected landscape and creatures found inside it. It's a movie that requires focus and attention as it tells its story. Garland does a great job of telling a story that equal parts adventure, drama, and horror, with a bit of romance sprinkled in.

The cast is decent. I really enjoyed Natalie Portman in the lead role of the Biologist. She is strong and intelligent and made for a great heroine. She gives a strong performance in this film. Jennifer Jason Leigh was decent as another member of the group. I might not have loved her performance, but it certainly works. I liked seeing Tessa Thompson here (she's everywhere these days!) but her performance was a little underwhelming. Oscar Isaac's presence was great, but he really didn't have a whole lot to do, either. It's interesting because the cast all work and add to the film, but this is absolutely Portman's film. She is what elevates the film. Her performance is strong enough that the supporting cast didn't need any standouts.

The visual effects in the film are incredible. The Shimmer and everything we find in it is just so memorable. The cinematography is excellent. This is the kind of film you don't want to tear your eyes away from the screen. It's mesmerizing. This all culminates in the climactic confrontation at the end of the film. I have to say, this was my favorite part of the film- it's what finally pushed the movie into greatness for me. The way this is depicted- visually, the sound, the performances- it's this creepy, intimidating finale that makes you uncomfortable even as you're so fascinated you cannot look away. Garland deserves great credit for crafting such a disturbing conclusion. Garland is truly a talented director. I also have to highlight one of the immediately classic scenes- the bear attack in the house. Garland crafts this scene perfectly- it is creepy and disturbing and unforgettable.

After loving Ex Machina, you can add Annihilation as another great movie to Garland's resume. He's started his directorial career two great movies. In my book, that makes you instantly a must-see director, so I can't wait to see what he does next. As for this film, it's an intelligent, complex, challenging movie that you will think about long after the credits role. Annihilation is a great film.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Ex Machina