Attack the Block
Homework - march 1, 2021
An alien invasion movie with a fun, focused POV and a young ensemble cast that avoids that teen movie vibe. The characters and setting showcase a gritty urban feel with protagonists who aren’t the wholesome families we’re used to seeing in these genres. The action and danger is real and exciting, and the music and direction are immersive.
Featuring a young John Boyega, years before Star Wars, his leading man charisma is already clear.
Currently streaming on Prime, Hulu, DirecTV, epix in the US, as well as CTV in Canada, this is Aliens for another generation.
Rating system
A clear explanation of our star ratings.
Didn’t finish watching, qualifies as a movie, just not one people should watch.
spent more time on phone or daydreaming about other movies than watching.
One thing was good (casting, script, dialogue, direction, cinematography, costumes, set design). Everything else failed.
Got a couple of things right, though still not at recommendation level.
Some people may be mildly satisfied with a watch, but can’t recommend to most viewers.
Enough entertainment value to recommend among genre-specific viewers (i.e. There’s enough action for action fans, drama for drama fans, etc.). One time viewing is enough.
holds up within its genre and hits enough elements to entertain viewers looking for more than just that genre’s key features. Can recommend. Might rewatch.
Recommend a watch to most viewers. Hits on majority of quality aspects (i.e. acting, script, etc.) Will likely rewatch. Entertains beyond genre.
Not only should everyone watch this, but it’s close to perfection.
No discussion. Just watch it.
Current homework
Starship Troopers
This Paul Verhoeven classic delivers Robocop vibes in space! Watching the violent bug massacre in this anti-fascist satire is just too much fun to worry about political messaging.
Past homework
Coherence
A minimalist sci-fi concept movie that is well-executed and compelling.
Training Day
This movie has a look and feel that is immersive and tense, and despite Fuqua’s continued and celebrated career, Training Day set a bar that I doubt he’ll ever reach again.
Stranger Than Fiction
There is something special about comedians playing dramatic roles, and Will Ferrell in Stranger Than Fiction is truly special.