Friday, December 12, 2008

The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)

When I first saw the trailer for this film, I honestly was not very excited about it. It looked like another attempt by Hollywood to cash in on an original idea from over fifty years ago because they cannot create anything new. In a way, it is that, but it is still quite watchable and entertaining. This is one film where its only dominant feature is the spectacle, and with its interesting use of special effects mixed with human emotion and relationships it is somewhat successful. Of course, there are several ways that the film could be greatly improved. Sadly, Kathy Bates was terrible (which I hate saying, as I love her in nearly everything she has ever done) and seemed like she was reading from a script with no emotion whatsoever. This definitely seems like a paycheck film for her. 

Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, and Jaden Smith were all quite good in their roles, particularly Connelly. Reeves was simply acting the same way he always does, which is not necessarily a bad thing, and Smith was excellent in his role as Connelly's stepson. Connelly, who is one of my favorite actresses today, turned in a solid performance, a bit below her normal standards, but quality none the less. John Cleese had a great part that he filled with all the zest and emotion that he always musters. 

For those of you who haven't seen the original film on which this one was based (myself included, sadly), the story focuses on Helen Benson and her stepson Jacob as the Earth is seemingly invaded by large galactic balls of light, and a large robot-like machine. Benson is a scientist of some sort, and is called in to assess the situation to determine if the Earth is in any danger. When she is approached by an intergalactic being, the creature is shot, and morphs into Keanu Reeve's Klaatu. Once Klaatu has escaped from the government holding facility, he seeks out Helen to inform her that he came to save the Earth. From what you might ask? Well, you'll have to see the film, as this revelation occurs late in the plot. 

Overall, this film was quite enjoyable, and with its 1 Hour and 43 minute running time, it was not overly long like some invasion films made recently. With its decent special effects, this one is just a fun night at the movies. Although it is not moving, or particularly meaningful, The Day the Earth Stood Still knows that its simply an invasion film, and it doesn't pretend to be anything that its not. 

My Grade: B-

Release Date: November 12, 2008
Running time: 1 Hour 43 Minutes
Rating: PG-13 for some sci-fi disaster images and violence
Director: Scott Derrickson

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