Pub.lished Movie Reviews
District 9 (2009)
"District 9" takes us on a gritty journey into a world where an extraterrestrial race is forced to live under harsh, slum-like conditions on Earth. These outcasts find an unexpected ally in a government agent exposed to their advanced biotechnology, leading to a chaotic and violent struggle.
The aliens, or "prawns" as they are derogatorily referred to, resemble a grotesque mix of lobsters and grasshoppers. They arrive on Earth in a colossal spaceship that hovers ominously over Johannesburg. Discovered malnourished and near death, they are rescued and relocated to a ground location, which quickly devolves into a prison-like camp.
The human inhabitants of Johannesburg, driven by fear and prejudice, demand the aliens be moved further away. The task falls upon an unassuming bureaucrat named Wikus van der Merwe, played brilliantly by Sharlto Copley. He leads a private security force to enforce the relocation, engaging in some disturbingly cheerful destruction of alien homes in the process.
The mystery surrounding the aliens is never fully explored; where they came from, their stranded ship's power source, and their seemingly unappealing attributes are left unexplained. Their revolting appearance and behavior garner little sympathy, making their extermination almost inconsequential.
The film, directed by newcomer Neill Blomkamp and produced by Peter Jackson of "The Lord of the Rings" fame, cleverly uses the mockumentary format to tell its story. It chronicles van der Merwe's relocation efforts, his unfortunate infection with an alien virus, and his eventual refuge in "District 9." He allies himself with an intelligent alien named Christopher Johnson, who displays surprisingly human emotions and is secretly planning a return to the mother ship.
The plot thickens as a private security firm becomes obsessed with uncovering the secret of the alien's weaponry, which humans are unable to operate. Even after van der Merwe grows a lobster-like claw and gains the ability to use these weapons, they do not seem superior to human weaponry. Despite this, he becomes a target for both the security company and Nigerian gangsters who exploit the aliens by selling them cat food.
The choice of South Africa as the film's setting draws undeniable parallels to the country's infamous apartheid system. "District 9" echoes historical events such as the forced removal of Cape Coloureds from District 6 in Cape Town. The alien language even incorporates clicking sounds similar to the Bantu language, a grim reminder of the racial segregation endured by its speakers.
Blomkamp manages to stir sympathy for Christopher Johnson and his son, Little CJ, despite their alien appearances. This is accomplished by endowing them with human-like body language; Little CJ is even given large, expressive eyes akin to E.T.
"District 9" accomplishes many things: it presents a unique perspective on alien visitors, seamlessly merges the mockumentary format with special effects, and serves as a potent allegory for the treatment of refugees. The film suggests that life continues as usual despite extraordinary circumstances, like a massive spaceship hovering over a city.
Unlike typical portrayals of alien visitors as saviors, the "prawns" in "District 9" are depicted as ordinary working-class beings. Interestingly, some interviews with residents in the film are actual footage of discussions about Zimbabwean refugees, a stark demonstration of the dehumanizing language often used.
Ultimately, "District 9" is a thought-provoking science-fiction tale that challenges perceptions and explores deep societal issues. It's a must-watch for fans of the genre and those looking for a film with substance.
- You are under the age of 17, as the movie contains strong bloody violence and pervasive language.
- You are not a fan of science fiction or action-packed movies.
- You don't enjoy strong political metaphors in movies.
- You have a weak stomach and can't handle gory, violent scenes.
- You prefer movies with a clear good vs evil narrative, as this film deals with moral ambiguity.
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with "District 9?"It's a movie about aliens landing in Johannesburg, South Africa, but instead of invading, they're just kind of... hanging out. I mean, we've all had house guests overstay their welcome, but these extraterrestrials are squatting in shantytowns. It's like, "Hey, ET, forget the phone home, how about a rent check?"
And the spaceship... it's just sitting there hovering over the city. Didn't anyone think to call a towing company? I mean, in New York, they'll tow your car if you're parked five minutes over the meter. But a spaceship the size of a city block? Nah, just leave it there, it's fine!
The Lobster (2015)
If you appreciate the unconventional in District 9, you might enjoy The Lobster. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Colin Farrell and Rachel Weisz, The Lobster is a dystopian black comedy that stands out for its originality. Enigmatic and profoundly weird, it combines satire, romance, and science fiction in a way that is quirky yet insightful.
Elysium (2013):If you enjoyed District 9, another Neill Blomkamp directed movie you should check out is Elysium. Like District 9, Elysium also deals with compelling class divides, dystopia and has a unique approach to Sci-Fi. Starring Matt Damon and Jodie Foster, it is rife with breathtaking visuals, grand allegories, and intense action.
Children of Men (2006):Children of Men, directed by Alfonso Cuaron, is another film which explores dystopian themes filled with social commentary similar to District 9. It is set in a world where humans have become infertile, showing political despair through a unique perspective. The film is critically acclaimed for its long takes, strong performances, and its thought-provoking narrative.
Attack The Block (2011):For a slightly different vibe, Attack The Block combines alien invasion with social commentary in a British neighborhood context. It features John Boyega in one of his earliest breakout roles and manages to balance thrilling alien sequences with comedic moments. Like District 9, it weaves in societal issues amidst the extra-terrestrial elements.
Ex Machina (2014):Ex Machina, directed by Alex Garland, is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that delves into themes of artificial intelligence and personhood. The movie is a touch slower and quieter than District 9 but its thematic depth and intrigue offers a similar feel nonetheless. The performances are fantastic and the structure of the film keeps you gripped until the end.
Like this? Then click here to see more scifi movies
