Super 8 (2011) is a vastly underrated film from director J.J.Abrams and producer Steven Spielberg. This picture made it into my top 25 films of the last decade (read list here). Finish this article to see why!
PLOT: A group of kids witnesses a horrific train crash during the beginning of the 1980s that leads to many unexplained events in their town. Maybe the crash was no accident?
In 2011, people were not yet bitten by the '80s craze bug. An example is its Rotten Tomatoes consensus exclaiming "It may evoke memories of classic summer blockbusters a little too eagerly for some, but Super 8 has thrills, visual dazzle, and emotional depth to spare." Comparatively to popular shows like Stranger Things that wouldn't come out for five more years, it's toned way down. The Duffer Brothers of Strangers Things definitely watched this film as did the makers of It. Of course, It is a book first but the producers and director had some appropriate inspiration from this film.
Like all films that focus on a group of kids, you hope the actors' chemistry together works. In my opinion, they are just as acceptable as all the others. It can be seen in their natural banter among other things. Plus, I enjoy the filmmaking subplot.
To further prove it, there's an exceptional scene that stands among the best of the decade, century and further past. Elle Fanning portrays Alice who goes to Joe's, played by Joel Courtney, room at night. The lighting, set design and writing sets it up properly. Alice reveals some troubling information to Joe that impacts them both, and it's full of emotion. I loved it.
The train crash is amazing. The CGI is marvelous, and Abrams directed the scene to perfection. The film's production design is great throughout as well. You'll notice little things like a Halloween movie poster among old action figures too.
Other acting performances here are splendid too including Noah Emmerich as Colonel Nelec. He is also terrific in a show I've watched called The Americans.
What else makes this movie special? The film score. Michael Giacchino is superb. "Alice Projects On Joe" can be heard by clicking which is a really sweet and slow sound. "Letting Go" can be heard by clicking which is powerful, and that main push really gets to me. Skip the next paragraph to avoid a spoiler so fair warning...
The locket. Joe's mother's locket is with him through the whole movie, so that ending moment is special. By letting go, he's able to help another get back home, and he can move on. He'll never forget her, and he can continue his life just like she'd want him to do.
Overall, I loved this movie. It deserves more praise for influencing the industry, and I think all Stranger Things and It lovers need to view this now! My movie rating is A+.
Comments