Read Positive User Reviews for Annihilation

10

joylitFeb 23, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "Annihilation" is based on a novel of the same name by Jeff Vandermeer, a writer specialized in a sci-fi/fantasy sub-genre known as "Weird Fiction". This book is the first from a trilogy: the "Southern Reach Trilogy"; however, director/screenwriter Alex Garland ("Ex Machina") wrote this adaptation before the next two books were even published. "Annihilation" follows the story of a Lena, a biologist with military background, whose life has been shattered by the disappearance of her soldier husband who had gone on a secret mission into an ecological disaster area presumably harboring by an alien presence. At the beginning of the movie, we witness the return of the hubby, who unexpectedly comes back home in a confused mental state, soon becomes ill and is taken to a secret facility together with his wife. The place is a scientific research installation, built on the vecinity of an ever growing quarentined site known as "Area X", which comprises a coastal area and its adjacent forest, permanently enveloped in a phenomenon called "the shimmer"; this is an iridiscent wall of light that enshrouds the entire area, disconnecting it from the external world, which originated years prior when a meteorite hit a nearby lighthouse. Little is known about what is going on on the other side of "the shimmer", since several expeditions have gone missing and its members are presumably dead. Lena will meet doctor Vendress, a psychologist and authority figure, who explains to her that her husband is in the facility, suffering from multiple organ failure and massive bleeding. Both women agree that Lena should be part of the next expedition to Area X (it is argued she might be able to find a cure for her ailing husband), an all-female team that includes the rather obscurely motivated psychologist, all of whom seem to have very little to lose appart from their own lives. The movie weaves different timelines in a very seamless way: the very beginning is an interrogation scene where Lena is being inquired by a scientist about her experience in the Area X and the fate of her party; the second timeline kicks off with the husband's reappearance and continues with Lena meeting the members of the expedition and departing into the unknown. There are also flashbacks of Lena's immediate past with her husband, which provides information about their relationship that is crucial for establishing the dramatic core of the story. Alex Garland shows an assured hand with the complex narative, a combination of economy and elegance that that is both elocuent and easy to follow; this allows him to introduce different layers of meaning within the narrative (psychological, scientific, philosophical), and to tackle big themes without becoming pretentious or obtuse. The movie has memorable dialogue not included in the original novel and the characters are much more fleshed out (the conversation between the biologist and the psychologist about the nature of self destruction is a highlight, and a pivotal moment in the film).
As someone who have read the books, I have taken notice of the multiple changes that have been introduced by Garland, and even though a favorite character and storyline from the novel have been eliminated, and some elements have traded background/foreground places, I appreciate the way the director has made this story his own, taking enough from the book to make the story recognizable, but at the same time making his own interpretations and connections, expanding on its themes and characters. There is much wonder, weirdness and visual poetry to be found in the beautiful and exceptionally well crafted film, and to my surprise there is also plenty body horror and sudden outbursts of gnaly monster action, with one scene being particularly brutal and effective. This is a film where you can clearly appreciate the simbiotic relationship between these two highly imaginative thinkers, maybe the best collaboration since Kubrick and Arthrur C. Clarke in "2001: An Space Odyssey"). "Annihilation" represents the type of reflexive science fiction that ponders about our place in the cosmos, our intrinsic mutability, and the horrors this conjures; it amounts to a surreal, sciency phantasmagoria about desintegrating identity, deeply rooted in cosmic horror. It is the rare high concept movie that is both extremely entertaining and dazzingly thought provoking. And I have no words to describe that climax apart from saying it left me in complete awe. This is for sure a new sci-fi classic that consolidates Garland as one of the major sci-fi visionaries of our time.… Expand

25 of 45 users found this helpful2520

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9

temptershellMar 12, 2018

This spectacle is not for everyone and I have to make it clear. This film is a very oneiric, story that does not fully give any answer, and the attempt to translate the novel was, in my opinion, an unrealizable project - and it was doneThis spectacle is not for everyone and I have to make it clear. This film is a very oneiric, story that does not fully give any answer, and the attempt to translate the novel was, in my opinion, an unrealizable project - and it was done great. Beautiful pictures, wonderful music and a plot that gives a lot to think about, even opening the mind.… Expand

10 of 13 users found this helpful103

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7

Solid_SnackFeb 23, 2018

The movie and the book(s) are so very different, yet the book offers integral insight into what the movie is trying to achieve. I can see how the movie might fail some who didn't read the book. I'd probably have to see it again to reach aThe movie and the book(s) are so very different, yet the book offers integral insight into what the movie is trying to achieve. I can see how the movie might fail some who didn't read the book. I'd probably have to see it again to reach a more definitive conclusion.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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7

Mafia1Mar 17, 2018

The visuals are stunning. The plot not so much. The take of not explaining or simplifying keeps you curious. the gory stuff is just about right. a new idea at least for me that an alien invasion will not be about guns and destruction can beThe visuals are stunning. The plot not so much. The take of not explaining or simplifying keeps you curious. the gory stuff is just about right. a new idea at least for me that an alien invasion will not be about guns and destruction can be so much more scarier and invisible and uncontrollable.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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8

ElWrayMar 14, 2018

Annihilation is a movie I personally needed. In more general terms, I think it show's everyone how a great movie is made. Great cast of characters. It's mostly female, but it does it in class. Never does it feel like it wants to beAnnihilation is a movie I personally needed. In more general terms, I think it show's everyone how a great movie is made. Great cast of characters. It's mostly female, but it does it in class. Never does it feel like it wants to be "culturally important" but it just tells a story where the main characters 'just so happen' to be women. The acting and writing overall was mature and left a lot to the imagination. Besides that the visuals and score (oh my god that score) were mind blowing. Besides that I think it's best if you go in blank en just experience it for yourself to make your own conclusions. In the end I think that, when everyone forgot about Marvel movies in the next decade, this one will still be fondly remembered by artists, creative people, people who have the ability to enjoy and understand abstraction and intellectual theme's. It's very high on my list of 'best of the decade' so far. Would recommend it to anyone, but it's a must see for fans of good sci-fi/horror.… Expand

6 of 9 users found this helpful63

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7

Tcurran2Feb 23, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Annihilation may not be entirely successful, but when it works, it really clicks. The last act's ambition was set for the stars, which is why it was such a shame to see the first 2/3rds carry on as a standard sci-fi schlock fest riddled with clunky dialogue and genre cliches. Coming off the success of Ex Machina, writer/director Alex Garland is probably one of the few individuals who would've been able to get this film made, being as strange as it is. The studio appears to have little faith in the project, as they've dumped the international release straight to Netflix. Substantively, Ex Machina this film is not. Though Annihilation's final images leave something for the viewer to chew on, Lena (Natalie Portman) and the rest of the group of female scientists assigned to investigate "the shimmer" are not nearly as compelling as Alicia Vikander and Domnhall Gleeson were in Garland's previous directorial effort. The mystery and suspense built up during the film's first act is quickly dissipated as CGI creatures come barreling through forest environments to pick off the group members. When Annihilation is subtle, it is at its creepy best. Unfortunately though, the script is nowhere near subdued nor intelligent enough to sustain compelling drama for the length of its two hour run time. The rumbling, ethereal sound design does most of the heavy lifting in providing the appropriate atmosphere. The operatic chorus that accompanies Lena and the squad's revelations is a nice touch. Largely how one will feel about this film is their reaction once Natalie Portman reaches the Lighthouse. I bought into it. Its creepy. Its disturbing. But most of all, it carries the film's intellectual heft. Self-destruction is the theme, but you're liable to self destruct yourself after trying to wrap your head around the film's final images. But that fundamentally is what keeps things interesting.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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7

annbdJan 16, 2019

The 'I don't know' movie shows how stupid looking are the too many 'I don't know-s' answers. Visually stunning, great effects, nice to watch. It's not waste of time, because you see the potential - there is a big one. You can see how theThe 'I don't know' movie shows how stupid looking are the too many 'I don't know-s' answers. Visually stunning, great effects, nice to watch. It's not waste of time, because you see the potential - there is a big one. You can see how the imagination of the story teller has grown in the first 45 minutes and then suddenly stopped - literately you can see the end of this imagination.I hope this movie has remake, it would be very interesting Sci-Fi to watch, but now it is not finished.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

LordOMOApr 4, 2020

Annihilation is a very fascinating SciFi movie and something I would reccomend to everyone with an interest in cosmic horror.
I think something that will rub people the wrong way is that there is a huge plot hole early on in the movie inAnnihilation is a very fascinating SciFi movie and something I would reccomend to everyone with an interest in cosmic horror.
I think something that will rub people the wrong way is that there is a huge plot hole early on in the movie in order to get the story going. But if you can look past that and have an interest in thoughtful SciFi movies you will be very pleased with the themes presented in this movie as well as the audiovisual experience it provides. Following the group of characters decent further and further into the unknown was both fascinating and thrilling.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

greenisgoodNov 12, 2018

TL;DR Another case of misleading trailers contributing to negative reviews as well as another case of 'WTF Was That ?' just like John Carpenters The Thing which was similarly snubbed for being stupid and gory with no explanations, it is aTL;DR Another case of misleading trailers contributing to negative reviews as well as another case of 'WTF Was That ?' just like John Carpenters The Thing which was similarly snubbed for being stupid and gory with no explanations, it is a whole different case now and similarly I think this movie will gain a cult status.

Also I completely understand the negative reviews since even I went into the movie expecting just another Action Sci-Fi FX fest with over-exposition of plot points which propel the killing of human imagination. Personally I enjoyed it every time someone in the movie said "I Don't Know". It is amazing to let you own imagination interpret what is happening.

The acting is solid all around, the atmosphere was enjoyably scary, the all female Team not acting like unnecessary SJW Champions (aka Ghostbusters 2016) was refreshing.
The CGI was not the most excellent at all times but will fill you with dread when needed and get you confused and horrified, the music was also a big part in the overall experience.

Though it is quite a slow burn I encourage everyone to keep aside any expectations of a conventional action sci-fi and just watch this movie with an open mind and let your imagination wander.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

thefakepierreNov 12, 2019

A great omage to Lovecraft!!! It's just the CGI in some parts that is kinda off. Really love the cinematography and sound.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

DiptanshuApr 1, 2020

Beautiful and calm!awesome screenplay,score,story and acting it kept me engaging and made me feel whats behind this everything and ending was awesome as hell!A great movie!

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

jared1209Feb 5, 2020

Brilliant film that is thought provoking with refreshingly original ideas and terrific use of scifi tropes. Maybe this experience should be endured sober otherwise you may have no idea whats going on.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

ajzeg01Sep 21, 2019

This movie was awesome! It was written for the screen (it’s based on a book) and directed by Alex Garland, who also wrote 28 Days Later and wrote/directed Ex Machina, one of my personal favourite sci-fi films! Annihilation is very much in theThis movie was awesome! It was written for the screen (it’s based on a book) and directed by Alex Garland, who also wrote 28 Days Later and wrote/directed Ex Machina, one of my personal favourite sci-fi films! Annihilation is very much in the same vein as Ex Machina, it is a thinking person's artsy sci-fi film (with horror elements). That genre does not appeal to everyone, but if you like sci-fi like Arrival, Blade Runner, Star Trek, 2001: A Space Odyssey, THX 1138 or, of course, Ex Machina, you will probably get a kick out of it! I actually don’t know how much detail I want to go into about this movie, I went in completely blind and was very pleasantly surprised! It only had a short theatrical run before being dumped on Netflix so I never saw any trailers or any promotional material. I had never even heard of it until recently, so I recommend that you just watch it without knowing anything about it. You’ll be glad you did! It’s a hidden gem! Also, it has an all-female main cast, if you care about that sort of thing.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

VancomycinFeb 24, 2018

With all the depth and most delightful elements of a Michael Crichton film (Jurassic Park, Sphere) and the visuals of a James Cameron movie (think The Abyss) you'll leave the theater thinking about this one for a few days.

11 of 17 users found this helpful116

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9

ViniciusBritoMar 13, 2018

When, possibly, a meteor falls on Earth and hit a lighthouse in an isolated location creating a bubble called "The shimmer" that anything that cross it, never comes back. The mysterious bubble keep expanding and taking more land with anyoneWhen, possibly, a meteor falls on Earth and hit a lighthouse in an isolated location creating a bubble called "The shimmer" that anything that cross it, never comes back. The mysterious bubble keep expanding and taking more land with anyone apart of what is going on. During one expedition, one person returns for the firs time, Kane(Soldier), Husband of Lena (Biologist, ex military), he comes different and she wants to understand what happend inside the dome.
This movie is by essence sci-fi but have a bunch of elements from horror and thriller that worked highly, using many open plans for you to get tense that something could come out from here or there technically this movie is phenomenal. I loved the cinematography that they presented, a bunch of moments they show the image obfuscated, with some blur, refracted.. Giving signs of what actually hapens in the shimmer, they show hands touching themselves on the other side of a glass of water, things that will echo later on. The scenario are just phenomenal, the way that they put the forest was simply amazing, how it was dominating the hole place and creating things, making something evolved.. this part really reminded me of the last of us, some scenes and places of the movie, the hole scenario, it gave me flashes from the game.
I like how the movie could be a metaphor for somethings, like for us, that couldn't let the natives dress what they wanted and put on them what we dressed, can't make it to a new place and let it how it is, not just refering to people, but to nature itself, modifying stuff. To a cancer, where want to face it, other fight(showing that you end up becoming what you fight against) or neither of those, leading that the cancer are oursleves. This movie is much about self-destruction, like a cancer, when everybody is blaming themselves or did something that literally destroyed them, is getting themselves destructed.
The track of the movie also are great, having somethings that complete the scene, sometimes with something supernatural, exemplifying in sound what is going on, sometimes a calm and peaceful that complete the beautiful environment, wich remembered me a lot of the last of us as well. Some moments of panic and scary being well represented by the song as well, helping to let you tense.
All the acting worked here, Natalie Portman can express herself with eyes and mouth, passing an idea of doubt and at the same time without expression, having a pretty good chemistry with Oscar Isaac, that also have a good job with his character, passing the idea of hapiness and later frustration. Gina Rodriguez did a very good job on two different moments of her character. Tessa Thompson as always delivered a much different character as usual, doing a much different interpretation, she is one of my favorite actress right now, her character is the most sweet from all of them and she phrase with calm and wisdom, just how her character is needed. Tuva Novotny did a character that was afraid, but could stand firm. Jennifer Jason Leigh did a hell of a great job, doing expression less character, cold that you can literally feel in her way of talk, in her eyes and mouth that doesn't have anything to lost, are all the way in for whatever she is up to.
The montage of the film, maybe could have be done a little better, some scenes are throw on us that just gonna make sense later on, wich is not bad, but how it is mounted i'm not so sure. The director choose to separate the acts for all of us, pointing the titles of each one.
It's a very pessimistic movie, expressing by metaphors how we are, how we are destroying ourselves and other ones. That all of us in some moment of our lives we ruined life, it's part of human nature destroy to construct or just destroy around you. Philosophical and social criticism, how we rational and evolved can destroy ourselves if we know that it ain't gonna do any good it is a genetic failure in all of us. A movie that will make people discuss and talk about it, keeping people's heads for a long time, wich is great, causing discussions and differently interpretations. Discussing creation, evolution, science, religion and, for sure, humanity.
The movie reminded me of a Fight Club quote: "Maybe self-improvement isn't the answer, maybe self-destruction is the answer."… Expand

11 of 17 users found this helpful116

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7

KannibalMar 4, 2018

Annihilation is a solid film, it features some stunning high-points and drags during a few fallow periods all in all I wanted more from the movie but I enjoyed it. Annihilation will occupies space in you head for a while, in spite of its flaws.

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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8

mdbackesMar 12, 2018

Genuinely intelligent and thoughtful science fiction film that confirms Alex Garland's subtlety as a writer/director, especially after his recent Ex Machina. Veers into Alien/Thing body horror with somewhat mixed results, but stays smart.Genuinely intelligent and thoughtful science fiction film that confirms Alex Garland's subtlety as a writer/director, especially after his recent Ex Machina. Veers into Alien/Thing body horror with somewhat mixed results, but stays smart. Like most of these films, there are a few characters that just seem compelled to make obviously dumb decisions. Hope the studio commissions the rest of the trilogy's adaptation.… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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8

DubeauMar 14, 2018

One of the rare movie that mix well horror and sci-fi together. The story is one of discovery, some fascinating. The actors and actress are pretty well balanced in their performance. No overacting here. The music helps a lot. It's eerie andOne of the rare movie that mix well horror and sci-fi together. The story is one of discovery, some fascinating. The actors and actress are pretty well balanced in their performance. No overacting here. The music helps a lot. It's eerie and mystical. Visually the FX is quite colourful, sometimes stunning or just well placed for a good effect. You get engage in Lena story, mainly because Portman is taking us slowly with her. There is a lot that is not explain in the movie and with it's peoples. That makes the film feels more real. I give it an 85%. Absolutely loved it.… Expand

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

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8

arielprimeFeb 24, 2018

Annihilation, directed by Alex Garland is the most intriguing sci-fi film I’ve experienced in a long time. It’s really obscure to describe, but its about an alien meteorite that crash lands in a park on earth and it proceeds to bizarrelyAnnihilation, directed by Alex Garland is the most intriguing sci-fi film I’ve experienced in a long time. It’s really obscure to describe, but its about an alien meteorite that crash lands in a park on earth and it proceeds to bizarrely affect the environment flora and fauna. Natalie Portman delivers a solid performance as well as Gina Rodirguez and Tessa Thompson. To be honest with ya’ll there were plenty of times that I was just looking over to my girl saying “what the hell is going on?” but don’t take it negatively, we were extremely invested. There’s plenty of ambiguity, it really made me think. It’s the kind of film you see and will likely speak for 30 minutes or more about it after watching it. I love that, especially in the sci-fi genre, a film that makes you think. Overall Annihilation is the best sci-fi film I’ve seen in a while, it made me think, beautiful cinematography, super trippy, it made me ask what the hell is going on, and it a visually engaging.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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7

TVJerryMar 2, 2018

Natalie Portman takes her whack at a sci-fi story, playing a biologist who joins a mission to penetrate the "shimmer" (one of the dumbest visual effects in recent films). She and a crew of 4 other women set out to find what's causing thisNatalie Portman takes her whack at a sci-fi story, playing a biologist who joins a mission to penetrate the "shimmer" (one of the dumbest visual effects in recent films). She and a crew of 4 other women set out to find what's causing this mysterious phenomenon, but they do so very slowly. There are some interesting visuals and one scary scene (the sloth-like monster), but most of its suspense is doled out with lots of anticipation and ominous music. Ultimately, there's a compelling creepiness that propels this puzzle forward, although at a glacial pace.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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7

ernis_vMar 16, 2018

Part Stalker, part Ghostbusters, part the Twilight Saga Soundtrack, part The Tree of Life, part Alien.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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8

LatinCritic13Feb 23, 2018

For those that seen Alex Garland’s Ex-Machina, get familiar with Annihilation because it’s terrifyingly great. Since Annihilation is based on a book, the director makes us questioned about what is the biology of life behind it. Sure, thisFor those that seen Alex Garland’s Ex-Machina, get familiar with Annihilation because it’s terrifyingly great. Since Annihilation is based on a book, the director makes us questioned about what is the biology of life behind it. Sure, this film did a good job with the female leads, but the whole thing shines on the philosophy of this movie. This film is familiar for those that have seen Denis Villeneuve’s Arrival or played Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us, but it takes in a more serious and terrifying approach that would take audiences in a adventure to unravel the mysteries of life. Moreover, this film has extremely well done cinematography, performances, sound mixing, and visual effects that made it great to watch. Most people may experience this film as a slow jumping-up-to-conclusions film, but it’s Alex Garland’s R-rated gory film that would make you experience the terror as you watch it for the first time.… Expand

7 of 12 users found this helpful75

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7

JLuis_001Mar 15, 2018

I don't usually read many reviews of so-called ''professional critics'' because several times they don't manage to be as objective as I would like and in many cases they practically tell you the whole movie, but incredibly I was saturatedI don't usually read many reviews of so-called ''professional critics'' because several times they don't manage to be as objective as I would like and in many cases they practically tell you the whole movie, but incredibly I was saturated with Facebook and Twitter notes about opinions of this film and an interesting pattern was highlighted, and almost all mentioned the same: ''Annihilation, the film that was too smart for the audiences.''

To mention the distribution method the film got it seems irrelevant by now, it's already on Netflix so there's nothing to do anymore. I admit the film would had been a box office failure to have achieved a release in theaters worldwide but that has nothing to do with the film being ''too smart'' for the regular public, but it's because the film is indeed far from any mainstream standard.

I find ridiculous to label Annihilation as a film too smart for the masses, first because it's not and second because mentioning that kind of things is why these types of non-commercial films are completely ignored. By assuming that the product is smarter than the consumer this will inevitably catalog the product as snobbish and pretentious because by assuming the consumers didn't understand the film then you're automatically calling them stupid, even if it's not the case. That is why today ''professional critics'' are already considered tremendously irrelevant.

But speaking of the film, I must say the plot is quite interesting but far from complex, in addition to the fact that the film spoils at the beginning what happened to the characters, it takes away all the mystery to the subject because you no longer feel any link with them, you're just waiting to see what will happen to them and therefore all the narrative and character development is practically null.
Apparently all them have their secrets and dark sides but none of that is explored and therefore when they start to disappear from the screen and from the story you couldn't care less. But at least the most important mystery remains intact and it directs the film until its ending.

Of the cast only Natalie Portman has a real acting weight, the rest of the cast is disposable, I'm sorry but it's true, even Oscar Issac who despite being the trigger of the journey Portman's character, has no real relevance except with the ending.

I really liked the soundtrack, the cinematography, I listened to a lot of complaints about the CGI but I think that if you consider its budget it was quite decent, the production design is also of a very good level, it immerses you in the situation and becomes a real complement to the story.

At the end of the day I think Annihilation is a good movie, it's interesting and entertaining, not so satisfying but rewarding, personally I prefer Garland's debut; Ex Machina but I would recommend the film to anyone without hesitation and I would definitely tell them that it's not too smart for them.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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8

GBG_JasonMar 16, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Love him or hate him, Alex Garland has become popular in the sci-fi and horror community for penning thought provoking films for a number of years. While some of his works have been masterpieces (28 Days Later), others have been commercial and critical bombs (Sunshine). Garland’s latest work, Annihilation, falls somewhere in between.

The film follows Natalie Portman (Black Swan, The Star War Prequel Trilogy) as Lena, a biologist and former Army vet who embarks into what is called the Shimmer. The Shimmer is a mysterious area that appears to reflect light from the outside akin to the colorful patterns you’d see when light shines through a bubble. The entity landed 3 years prior to the film in a southern region of the US and is slowly growing. Every team, electronic device, and animal sent into it has never been heard from again. That is, until Lena’s husband was sent in and returns after being thought dead for a year. Soon after his return, Kane, played by Oscar Isaac (X-Men Apocalypse, Ex Machina), is rushed to the ER after acting extremely strange. He is then transported with his wife to a hidden base just outside of the mysterious environment. In an effort to find out what is wrong with her husband, Lena heads out with a new team in the hopes of unraveling the mystery of the Shimmer.

As the team sets off on foot into the bubble (which perplexed me as to why they did not use some sort of tank or hovercraft), they see that the Shimmer is changing the flora and fauna in dreamlike (or nightmare-ish) ways. Literally, everything that the Shimmer has touched, even abandoned homes and shacks which grow a strange type of mold or moss, have been modified. Flowers that stem from the same root systems will bloom in various flower patterns, and animals feature new defensive and terrifying features to the point they are barely recognizable. In addition to this, the team keeps experiencing a severe loss of time as well as vivid dreams which may be hallucinations, but the film never is clear on this. While we only get insight into the ones experienced by Lena, the rest of the group does mention experiencing similar situations. These story devices are used sparingly and typically offer more insight to Portman’s character, but also cause the film to lose momentum here and there.

The CGI visuals depicting the changes are acceptable and occasionally stunning, although certain creatures, especially those at the end of the film, look somewhat dated. Others, such as one featured heavily in the midpoint of the film, look downright terrifying. The worst part of the visuals are very much like recent episodes of The Walking Dead; a green screen method is used for a backdrop in almost every scene, giving most of the film a “soap opera” look. While it does paint a pretty picture, it’s often a bit too distracting.

The opening of the film hurts the overall story quite a bit – seeing Lena in the facility wearing what looks like prison garbs gives away a lot of the film, since the remaining team’s fate is put out there for the viewer within the first few minutes. The omission of these details would have given the film a much needed boost to the tension, as it does lull at times. The acting pushes the characters outside of the token roles found in the genre, but knowing the rest of the team will die makes it hard to grow attached to them.A

Much like the opening, the ending will divide or disappoint many viewers as it leaves the fate of a few of the surviving characters open to interpretation. Like many of Garland’s other works, the film questions what it is to be human and if some of our worst traits are by choice or incorporated into our DNA, and whether we are self-destructive by nature or if we are this way due to our environment. I found the ending to be fitting, while my wife was a bit let down. Much like the recent Mother!, which I loved and my wife (along with most of the world) hated, the ending will probably define your thoughts on the film.

With a few pacing issues and occasional poor CGI, Annihilation doesn’t break new ground for the genre, but it does ask some thought provoking questions about what it is to truly be human. If you’re a fan of the horror sci-fi genre, this film should not be missed.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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8

jzornotMar 16, 2018

Well, now we know where Paddindton comes from. I mean it means perfect sense: he is a talking bear who can make marmalade. He also tends to walk through shimmery screens and lives somewhere which looks quite similar to the zone.
As to theWell, now we know where Paddindton comes from. I mean it means perfect sense: he is a talking bear who can make marmalade. He also tends to walk through shimmery screens and lives somewhere which looks quite similar to the zone.
As to the movie, the atmosphere draws you in. I didn't really notice how well the actors perfored which for me is a good thing for this type of movie. Overall it's mildly new to the general audience who is typically not into this genre. The clifhanger at thiend was over the top though.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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9

ohnomrbillMar 8, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i enjoyed this movie as a metaphor. its about communication and not meeting our humanity in this missed communication. the country is divided into factions, like congress and we never seem to meet as one. this is how i enjoys this movie. yet, as sci fi, at a point near the end, there is an explosion of light which is really cool. at first i was struggling to like it above the horror i was seeing. in the end was an unusual resolve. for me, this was the movie of the year and kind of better than the shape of water which had originality yet the same story as always. this movie was a little different and a little more original.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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8

Geng1sMar 12, 2018

Director has done a great job of taking the themes from the booking and rolling them into a movie that honestly is a lot easier to follow then the books were.

Felt like there were probably some points that needed further explanation butDirector has done a great job of taking the themes from the booking and rolling them into a movie that honestly is a lot easier to follow then the books were.

Felt like there were probably some points that needed further explanation but overall it was a great experience.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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9

JPKMar 3, 2018

Chilling And Mysterious
This Film Is Suspenseful And Intense From Start To Finish.

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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9

DeadlyCarrotFeb 24, 2018

This is very likely not a movie that everyone will understand, and that's the whole point. The beginnning is slow, but once it get's good, it stays like that. This is the kind of movie you'll still be thinking about days after, because it'sThis is very likely not a movie that everyone will understand, and that's the whole point. The beginnning is slow, but once it get's good, it stays like that. This is the kind of movie you'll still be thinking about days after, because it's plot actually challenges your mind, which is rare these days. The only issue with this movie is it's slow start and sometimes strange dialogue.… Expand

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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9

BrianMcCriticMar 4, 2018

These are the types of films that really captivate the imagination. Annihilation still has me thinking about it a week later and I don't even come close to having all the answers. A

7 of 14 users found this helpful77

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9

bfoore90Feb 28, 2018

This isn't a movie for everyone, it's a hugely thought provoking and terrifying in the sense that you don't know what's going on once they enter the environment.The performances are all very good and the direction and shots are all insanelyThis isn't a movie for everyone, it's a hugely thought provoking and terrifying in the sense that you don't know what's going on once they enter the environment.The performances are all very good and the direction and shots are all insanely good. It's a rare film, thats saying the least.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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7

dangerfarMar 3, 2018

Annihilation is a captivating and slow burning fantasy/sci-fi that manages to overcome its narrative hollowness through a very strong audio-visual presentation, which especially in the last fifth of the film offers a uniquely rivetingAnnihilation is a captivating and slow burning fantasy/sci-fi that manages to overcome its narrative hollowness through a very strong audio-visual presentation, which especially in the last fifth of the film offers a uniquely riveting experience. The first 4/5 of the movie are, though intriguing, fairly ho-hum. Perfectly watchable as the suspense and mystery are well orchestrated, however many of the characterizations, scares, tension, and plot directions are heavily borrowed and often non-sensical from any viewpoint tied to the real world (hence more in the fantasy realm). It leans a bit heavily on flashbacks that don't hold much meaning, save for one which tries to explain a central theme in the story but gets the biology mostly wrong (or if being charitable vastly oversimplified), thus somewhat souring the note. The characters can at times be frustrating as well, taking predictably rash and irrational directions plucked from generic horror or thriller movies that have been recycled over and over. The last 1/5 is what really saved the movie for me though. It doesn't offer a particularly satisfying resolution or anything, indeed if I'm being honest the core plot itself even when brought to bare really is mostly derivative nonsense that merely pretends to offer insight and answers by vaguely making suggestions about dubious things like "refracting DNA" to move things along in a traditional sense. However the audio-visual presentation of the climax is absolutely arresting, and so well done so as to give one an a small taste of a psychedelic experience, a chance to with the right eyes peer into the nature of creation and the self in a way that is difficult to do without the right stiumulation. It drew me in completely during this sequence, so much so that immediately after it returned to normalcy I wanted to go back. It's a rare and precious thing in movies these days, and it was worth the cost of admission alone. Sound editing and design, cinematography and visual presentation, and acting by the ever charismatic and engaging Portman are all top notch. The rest is well executed but fairly forgettable and uninteresting. It is a rare experience that managed to leave me with a positive impression even as it mostly failed to deliver anything meaningful narratively. I will certainly return to those final minutes again on the smaller screen and marvel at their wonder.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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10

FyilMar 13, 2018

People are too much used to have everything chew up in details to them. Annihilation is a great science fiction that requires you to think and interpret what is going on, is not thet complicated.

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

IamTrinaFeb 28, 2018

Pros: Interesting. Different. "Cool." Some pretty scary intense scenes/creatures and weird sounds. Great special effects. Good acting. Memorable. Cons: A little slow at times, but that should be expected for the plot. Got better (faster andPros: Interesting. Different. "Cool." Some pretty scary intense scenes/creatures and weird sounds. Great special effects. Good acting. Memorable. Cons: A little slow at times, but that should be expected for the plot. Got better (faster and more action/drama) in the middle to end of movie. Could have more sound in these slow places. Only a couple things not explained. Maybe these things are in the book. Neither pro nor con: a few gory and bloody scenes (well done)
All in all the mesmerizing parts will stay with me. I would have given it an 8.5, so I rounded up to a 9.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

Davrosdaleks1Mar 2, 2018

I was really surprised by Annihilation. It's a sci-fi/horror/thriller. It's equally weird, intriguing, and unsettling. Basically, what Prometheus should have been.

One of the most visually unique films I've seen. There is so much memorableI was really surprised by Annihilation. It's a sci-fi/horror/thriller. It's equally weird, intriguing, and unsettling. Basically, what Prometheus should have been.

One of the most visually unique films I've seen. There is so much memorable imagery, beautiful, creepy, and sometimes both at once. The whole film has a unique style that I dig. The lightning has a sunsetsey 70's feel to it. Rather than a traditional score, a good portion of the music goes for a folksy style, which actually meshes very well with the swampland the characters are trekking through.

I've heard complaints that the film is too slow. Personally, it went fine with me. I don't think there were any scenes they could've cut. However, some of the dialogue does slow things down sometimes. It's very deliberate and intellectual -ish and doesn't always sound natural. Though this mostly occurs in the opening chapter where all the exposition comes from. (Jennifer Jason Leigh's character is especially a bit of a boring chore to get through in beginning. Can't tell if it's the dialogue, her acting, or a bit of both.)… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

FlexedacornMar 2, 2018

As soon as I saw this movie was being adapted by Alex Garland, I knew it was a must see for me. I loved the slow burn and unique feeling of Ex Machina and was hoping for a similar feel. In anticipation for the movie I picked up the firstAs soon as I saw this movie was being adapted by Alex Garland, I knew it was a must see for me. I loved the slow burn and unique feeling of Ex Machina and was hoping for a similar feel. In anticipation for the movie I picked up the first book of the Southern Reach trilogy to read beforehand. Let me just say, I loved the movie and the book for two different reasons. Both book and film adaptation had amazing visuals that are a must read and/or see. I felt the movie was more action oriented whereas the book was a very ambiguous slow burn thriller. I wouldn’t say the movie was a faithful adaptation, but I found Alex Garlands take on the story to be easier to digest then its source material. There is a particular seen at the end of the movie that will probably go down as one of the top sci-fi scenes of all time. If you are looking for an interesting original sci fi movie, this is your film. Be forewarned if you read the book(s), this movie has a lot of creative differences… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

NeutralMilkHMar 9, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you have a problem with some some of the acting and the (initially) mediocre... that's fine, it threw me off too the first time I watched it. However, the second time I watched it with all of my information gathered, a lot of things clicked for me, such as why a certain character says the line, "It's a trick of the light!"

Summary before spoilers: The story's actually good in my opinion, characters are developed (if somewhat underacted and underwritten at points), the visuals are **** amazing, and it actually made me sit and watch the credits for a few minutes... I know it says its underacted and underwritten, but that's only in retrospect after my initial viewing which put me on the edge of my seat. So yeah, it's "almost" a 9/10. Best movie I've seen so far this year, there will probably be a bunch of better ones that come out, but yeah, for now, I love this one.

Also, as a response to Gloukas ridiculous belief that this is the worst movie ever made on a big-budget scale, I've written down a list of a bunch of movies that everyone will agree is worse than this one. -Transformers Franchise
-Beowulf (2007)... it's obscure now for a reason
-Pixels
-Jupiter Ascending
-R.I.P.D.
-The Last Airbender
-Batman and Robin
-Disaster Movie
-The Fifty Shades Franchise
-Charlie's Angels

In terms of Science fiction
-Battlefield Earth
-Jurassic Park 3
-Planet of the Apes (2001, the original is a classic)
-Terminator 5 (which is honestly more confusing that Annihilation since they just stopped giving a **** about the timelines.)

--At this point, I delve into much deeper "spoilers," so if you clicked on this knowing that it contained them, and you actually want to watch the movie, then you should probably turn back from this point.--

My theory, is that this movie is about cancer, or relates to cancer in some way. It's about how cancer effects and changes certain people, especially the scientists, who might all be getting killed by "cancer" except for Natalie Portman... essentially, the ending with the plasma grenade might be chemotherapy, and the reason as to why the shimmer is in her eye and as to why Oscar Isaac is so weird is a sign that the cancer might be coming back... this just so happens to be a movie about cancer that pretends to be one about the unknown (which is revealed to be aliens). Anyway, this is just my theory, and it probably sucks ass, if you want to take this movie literally, the ending could just be that the "fake" Natalie Portman came up with a convincing story (albeit, with a bunch of "I don't knows," and also, she would have to know information about the other characters) or that the "real" Natalie Portman simply came back with a trace from the shimmer.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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10

CTHReviewsMar 12, 2018

Annihilation is a horror movie in disguise, and one of the creepiest ones I've seen in a while.

The best part of this movie are its concepts. Now, hear me out on this, the execution is done brilliantly, but the ideas and concepts for some ofAnnihilation is a horror movie in disguise, and one of the creepiest ones I've seen in a while.

The best part of this movie are its concepts. Now, hear me out on this, the execution is done brilliantly, but the ideas and concepts for some of the creatures and phenomenons are brilliantly well thought-out, especially when you see this bear-like creature. It honestly scared the sh*t out of me.

It's such a bizarre film with a fantastic mythos behind it.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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7

SonrisasFeb 24, 2018

In a nutshell, an alien meteorite hits earth, thus creating a zone called the Shimmer. When you walk into it, you slowly become part of it. It causes super refraction of light and DNA and so if DNA mixes across species then each speciesIn a nutshell, an alien meteorite hits earth, thus creating a zone called the Shimmer. When you walk into it, you slowly become part of it. It causes super refraction of light and DNA and so if DNA mixes across species then each species picks up part of the other species. Usually people who enter end up dead or turned to dust or something. I would call this a thriller/horror/fantasy/sci-fi genre. I was very engaged even though the move runs 2 hours plus. I love Natalie Portman and Jennifer Jason Leigh and both had big parts in this film. I had no idea how it would turn out. If you usually like Sci-fi/thrillers, I think this is your movie.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

FranbarrmanMar 12, 2018

This film is a mindblowing sci-fi beautifull thing, since it starts you know youre watching something different something unique, natalie is at her very best so are the rest of the crew oscar and jennifer, the sets are amazing, theThis film is a mindblowing sci-fi beautifull thing, since it starts you know youre watching something different something unique, natalie is at her very best so are the rest of the crew oscar and jennifer, the sets are amazing, the cinematography is so colorfull and beautifull and god that endind is a big wow. This one will stick with me for a long time. The only issue are some cgi scenes that looked a bit off but youll forgett this. With only two films Alex Garland is one of muy top ten directors what he has achived with this movie and ExMachina is something i cant describe.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

BradHughesFeb 28, 2018

If you loved Ex Machina, you will love this. Wonderfully acted and thought provoking, it builds towards a riveting and justified climax that manages to provide both a sense of completion and moral/intellectual ambiguity. I wish there could beIf you loved Ex Machina, you will love this. Wonderfully acted and thought provoking, it builds towards a riveting and justified climax that manages to provide both a sense of completion and moral/intellectual ambiguity. I wish there could be a sequel, but despite strong action scenes in the second half of the film, it is not commercial enough for the mainstream audience.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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10

TheRedSnifit1Mar 6, 2018

A surreal, trippy movie following as they enter a region where reality isn't what it used to be. Visually stunning and well-written. Only downside is that there was maybe a touch too much time spent on flashbacks, especially at theA surreal, trippy movie following as they enter a region where reality isn't what it used to be. Visually stunning and well-written. Only downside is that there was maybe a touch too much time spent on flashbacks, especially at the beginning.

This is one of the best, if not *the* best, "Lovecraftian" (an overused term but it fits this movie well) film out there.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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10

NShep53Feb 27, 2018

Alex Garland is the man. 28 Days Later, Sunshine, Ex Machina and now ANNIHILATION. Annihilation is his best work so far. The shimmer is a place of horror and true wonder. And so is this film.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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10

im_so_metaMar 13, 2018

It's a slower, deeper, more ambiguous film than, for instance, a comic book movie. If this is your cup of tea though, then its brillliant. The visuals are stunning and the narrative was interesting on my first watch, but actually afterIt's a slower, deeper, more ambiguous film than, for instance, a comic book movie. If this is your cup of tea though, then its brillliant. The visuals are stunning and the narrative was interesting on my first watch, but actually after thinking about it, watching a few YouTube analyses (e.g. the AtZ Show) and interviews with the director (Alex Garland), I re-watched it and got so much more out of it; understanding more of the concepts… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

bigscreen454Mar 16, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Annihilation on the surface sounds more violent than it actually is but there are some gore moments like when a woman with a lot of feminine angst takes a machine gun and blows away a giant mutant alligator. Let me tell you if you are ever wondering whether Natalie Portman can handle a machine gun I can answer you the affirmative yes and it is quite cool. Make no mistake, it’s an Estrogen pumped film, and with a strong-willed female protagonist that perhaps could win an Oscar as well. Natalie Portman’s performance is outstanding and supporting characters did a good job as well. Some of the characters go psycho but I guess that’s to be expected when you encounter too many flowers and rainbows. This all-lady team sent out to achieve success ‘where no man has gone before’ (and achieved success) didn’t end too well. They go out to the danger zone to solve the mystery and things take a turn for the worse. The five women collectively hit menopause at the same time on a ‘very bad day’, and meet stressors such as a Mutant Aligator and Giant Bear with a skull head. This and many other unfortunate events remind us that Dorothy is not in Kansas anymore. The visuals were outstanding. Complete with rainbow anamorphic flares, this scifi film was a visual treat and something different and more interesting than the most recent scifi films. Natalie’s CG alter ego is taller than her, I get that everyone wants to be taller but this was a bit much, Natalie is a ‘shortie’. The special effects of the alter ego were done well and obviously very high budget. The set design was overwhelmingly cool. Very creative flowers and foliage really added to the environment and feel of the film.

Overall I’d say it’s good storytelling and the film kept my attention which is sometimes difficult to do with adult ADHD onset so early, so 8 out of 10 stars for an engaging film.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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8

The4thBillboardMar 11, 2018

Movie was better than I was expecting. Based on the trailer I thought it would be a little more like a horror movie but this is a good solid SciFi.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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10

AndresAlfonsoMar 14, 2018

I love this movie , it takes it time , but once arrives goes directly to you , some scenes are one of the most iconic of scy fy in years .

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

MaxkhoMar 22, 2019

Great film that will leave a long-lasting impression on you, and will sure as hell keep you entertained throughout the duration of the film. The direction of this film is mind-boggling, and some of the scenes will genuinely catch you offGreat film that will leave a long-lasting impression on you, and will sure as hell keep you entertained throughout the duration of the film. The direction of this film is mind-boggling, and some of the scenes will genuinely catch you off guard. It will also leave you scratching your head about the ending, message, and how the world of Annihilation works in general. Annihilation is a masterpiece in a very special way, and a must-watch for every Sci-fi fan.

Only grip with the film: the movie uses some pseudoscientific ideas, and the story is somewhat inconsistent. However, that only fills it with even more mystery and adds to the brilliant mysterious vibe that permeates the world of Annihilation.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

mbeckfordOct 27, 2020

It helps to have an open mind and just let yourself go with the flow of the story ... most plot elements align about half-way through the film. Meanwhile just lean back and enjoy the outstanding visual effects, cinematography and soundIt helps to have an open mind and just let yourself go with the flow of the story ... most plot elements align about half-way through the film. Meanwhile just lean back and enjoy the outstanding visual effects, cinematography and sound design. And it has a few very disturbing/creepy scenes that may be tough for some.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

CoKronakanMar 20, 2019

This movie was filled with jaw-dropping visuals, directing and cinematography style with amazingly shot scenes, complex mind boggling plot and great acting. It is nothing less of an amazing movie that gives you a lot to think of. TheThis movie was filled with jaw-dropping visuals, directing and cinematography style with amazingly shot scenes, complex mind boggling plot and great acting. It is nothing less of an amazing movie that gives you a lot to think of. The attention to detail in the scenes is amazing. The script however simple it is it has the contents of much more, but it is up to the audience to figure it out. The music in the scenes is amazing and most importantly original and helps the immersion and the action of the characters. Simply put this movie is to complex for everyone to understand, but non the less it is pleasing for the eye, fun to watch and it keeps the tension going through out the movie with new mysteries and threats. Also this film can be entertaining for everyone, even for those who don't get the message of the movie at the end due to it's complex nature. Overall this is an amazing movie that is almost close to a legendary 10/10 if not for it's minor misplaced elements and events that felt pushed in the story, and minor biology plot-wholes.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

LegitSaltFeb 25, 2020

The only way this film doesn’t improve upon the previous entry in Garland’s oeuvre is regarding existentialism – if Ex Machina leaves the viewer questioning theirs and others’ identities, Annihilation leaves the viewer stunned, in surrealistThe only way this film doesn’t improve upon the previous entry in Garland’s oeuvre is regarding existentialism – if Ex Machina leaves the viewer questioning theirs and others’ identities, Annihilation leaves the viewer stunned, in surrealist horror and beauty. Where this film excels is its presentation of the unknown, its worldbuilding. Annihilation presents its characters and audience with an unknown world, a scary world, and despite it being a world of secrets, we are let into it alongside Lena (Natalie Portman). The visuals of the movie are very Lovecraftian and, in all but two or three scenes, they were incredibly well done and surreally real. The characters were well developed and cast. Despite lesser screen time, they all felt true to their scenarios and personalities. Oscar Isaac (Ex Machina) returns in his second Alex Garland film, and, while he plays a smaller role this time, his performance and character are still pivotal to the film’s success. The film develops almost an air of McCarthyism to it, characters come to fear unknown creatures, secrets, entities, and forces. The most stunning element of the film is the cinematography. “The Shimmer” provides some of the most alien and vibrant structures, flora, and fauna. Overall, this film merges some of the best elements of sci-fi, horror, and Lovecraftian fiction to create a truly unique piece.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

PalpetineSheevMar 20, 2020

What a delightfully bizarre nightmare of a film this was. That ending. Man, that ending.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

ClancyBrownNov 19, 2019

Dark and thought provoking. The Screen play is co written by the author of the book in which the movie is loosely based on. The movie inspired me to read the book which is vastly better. Not saying this a bad movie, but the book conveyed muchDark and thought provoking. The Screen play is co written by the author of the book in which the movie is loosely based on. The movie inspired me to read the book which is vastly better. Not saying this a bad movie, but the book conveyed much deeper haunting thoughts and brought my imagination to life with fascinating mental images.The movie well acted with images and soundtrack. That works to make a mysterious atmosphere and story worth watching.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

FilmanwaltDec 17, 2020

[Half the point counts.

(I liked Annihilation a lot better than Birdbox. The whole story about the shimmer was simply more interesting and better presented. The whole cast looks wonderful here and gives the film the necessary depth. The[Half the point counts.

(I liked Annihilation a lot better than Birdbox. The whole story about the shimmer was simply more interesting and better presented.

The whole cast looks wonderful here and gives the film the necessary depth.

The scenario is well staged and you really just want to see more of this world.

The end here is much stronger and also more impressive than the 0815 end from Birdbox. The whole thing makes you think and leaves clearly differentiated scope for interpretation.)

.stnuoc tniop eht flah]… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

AtLeastITriedJul 18, 2020

After watching interstellar I realized how mind bending movies can be. I watched this before interstellar and now that I have seen botb i can confirm. Both are a must-watch. Annihilation had amazing cinematography with a good soundtrack.After watching interstellar I realized how mind bending movies can be. I watched this before interstellar and now that I have seen botb i can confirm. Both are a must-watch. Annihilation had amazing cinematography with a good soundtrack. Great for those whole love sci-fi thrillers.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

Morze232Sep 19, 2020

It was a movie that really made life question, progressing in a slow tone, but it will be worth the end.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

geewahJan 6, 2021

This is a beautifully shot, well executed and captivating sci-fi/thriller movie. Alex Garland is making his mark in this genre.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

MrQmackDec 28, 2020

I like how the movie explain the story one by one,and the movie is easy to understand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

KeithDowFeb 27, 2018

"Am I you? Are you me?"

These are the pivotal words spoken late in 'Annihilation,' Alex Garland's directorial follow-up to his breakout hit 'Ex Machina.' The film is unequivocally high-concept--perhaps too much for its own good--in a"Am I you? Are you me?"

These are the pivotal words spoken late in 'Annihilation,' Alex Garland's directorial follow-up to his breakout hit 'Ex Machina.'

The film is unequivocally high-concept--perhaps too much for its own good--in a dazzlingly-shot, heady sci-fi thriller. The more one understands biology--specifically cell biology--the more one is able to appreciate how tightly woven the plot is, and how insanely clever and audacious the ending turns out to be.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

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10

AGeekNamedBobFeb 28, 2018

Edited from my blog review. ANNIHILATION is a divisive film. There are many who, once they realize the film isn’t exactly the alien action romp promised from the trailers, will check out early and not allow themselves to be on an originalEdited from my blog review. ANNIHILATION is a divisive film. There are many who, once they realize the film isn’t exactly the alien action romp promised from the trailers, will check out early and not allow themselves to be on an original and thought-provoking journey. There are others who will get on this train, allowing the curiouser and curiouser ideas to start to sink in; but many of them will get off - or be stuck aboard unwillingly- as ANNIHILATION’s train throttled full steam ahead in a pile of weird akin to 2001 taking a ride on Willy Wonka’s Boat Tunnel Hellscape. Or if like me, will station themselves in the Engine car tossing every ounce of coal into the fire screaming MORE MORE MORE.

A careening train isn’t perhaps the best metaphor. ANNIHILATION is a slow burn, much like the novel by Jeff Vandermeer. The first of the three “Southern Reach” books is deeply unsettling, imbued with an unquiet dread as we follow The Biologist and her three teammates sent to explore the aforementioned Area X - an area where biology and evolution has gone haywire. And where-from no one returns the same. I loved it, and immediately ran out to buy the other two books - but felt the story of how Area X alters and maddens the women wouldn’t be very filmmable. Writer-director Alex Garland apparently thought so to. The film for ANNIHILATION is rather different than the source; keeping the very basics but changing just about everything else. But that’s fine. He carries over the tone perfectly, and taking the internal novel and making it visual. It is remarkable; feeling like the previous version but still being entirely it’s own thing.

This matches with the world of Area X. Inside The Shimmer, the film’s name for the purple glow creating the barrier (an example of visual changes in that the book version is invisible), evolution has gone haywire. Mutations of plants and animals live in this new ecosystem. Some gorgeous and harmless; some bone-chillingly terrifying. I don’t write about specifics in my reviews, but there is one sequence was so far the scariest of the year, perhaps of the last several. The sounds. THAT sound. Thus, reconfiguring of the book into the feature fits. Garland builds a more directed narrative, continually sending the crew deeper into Area X, themselves and their madness. Before I move on, those designs are grotesque and beautiful. Is is odd to call gore beautiful? If not, the disturbing beauty of some of the dead is one of the most impressive designs I’ve seen in ages. Gorehounds like me will appreciate several sequences but the disturbing nastiness isn't the focus although it does get a rise. Garland chose well with Director of Photography Rob Hardy. Hardy creates a lush world of evolutionary change and destruction; simultaneously engaging and endangering. As I sat in the theater marveling, I could hear Garland in my ear “Things are going to get weird, I’m going to make it weird.” I thank him for it. Garland has made a career of some of the best sci-fi /horror scripts: SUNSHINE, DREDD, 28 DAYS LATER…, and his directorial debut: EX MACHINA, my favorite film of 2015. Like EX MACHINA, Garland explores many questions, but doesn’t always give solid answers. But he finds the right balance; the audience is left pondering - but in the good way of eagerly waiting to find people to discuss and dissect. Garland trusts his audience to come along without having their hands held. There are many portions of the film, where a less trusting filmmaker would have continued on to inserted a particular shot or some explaining line to bring a concept home. Especially in the bonkers third act, which both brings everything to conclusion and goes full crazygonuts. Garland doesn't play it safe and I applaud him for it. It's too bad many will not, to be left cold by not having it all spoon-fed and wrapped in a bow. I’ve talked concept, but it wouldn’t have worked without a great cast to usher through Area X. The Biologist, played by Natalie Portman is the audience anchor, searching for answers for her husband Oscar Isaac’s reappearance 18 months after venturing into Area X. Like the other 4 women - Jennifer Jason Leigh’s aloof Psychologist, Gina Rodriguez's tough Paramedic, Tessa Thompson’s quiet Physicist, and Tuva Novotny’s Geologist; the Biologist is self-destructing and looking for something to hold on to. Many may say we don’t really get to know these women. I say that is much the point. This isn’t a trained squad; these are individuals there for their own internatal reasons. No one is open to fully bond; but instead to be torn apart and changed by their environment. Annihilation sticks with the audience. An appreciative audience will be as changed and altered as the characters. Garland made a new sci-fi masterpiece in EX MACHINA a; and he has done so again. Audiences will debate and and re-watch. Now if we can only get enough to see it that first time. A… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

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10

shuruppakFeb 28, 2018

This film is more challenging than typical sci-fi, superhero offerings -- but well worth it. I'm sure it will be divisive, but for those who prefer cerebral films that don't provide ready-made or easy interpretation, 'Annihilation' will be aThis film is more challenging than typical sci-fi, superhero offerings -- but well worth it. I'm sure it will be divisive, but for those who prefer cerebral films that don't provide ready-made or easy interpretation, 'Annihilation' will be a treat. Gorgeous visuals and great musical/sound track. Doesn't follow the book that closely, but I liked the choices that were made in the screenplay. Well cast. Prefer to see in theater over small-screen.… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

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9

CrispyboiMar 26, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is pretty mind boggling in my opinion, so this is just my take on it..I found myself contemplating and discussing this film for hours after with friends and or myself. A movie where existentialism and introspection are both prevalent and well intertwined throughout the entire film. Lena and her team, all women scarred by traumas in their life embark on a search, seeking answers for something greater (the shimmer). However as they delve deeper, each character has their moments of reflective insight in which they realise they need to look inward to find answers or in some cases a route of pure self destruction, which is another theme that it really lends itself to. Specifically when Lena reaches the lighthouse, where she is mirrored identically by this altered version of herself, it is an initial terrifying struggle for both Lena and the viewer, as it really encapsulates the feeling of constriction as when she moves, it moves with her. If she fights it fights back, if she runs it runs. It’s like a beautiful dance of unease and torment, that is until she realised that all she has to do is accept and come to terms with this version of herself, it’s only then when she can escape. This is all showcased through the trippy cinematography and deep colour pallet that engulfs the environment the film is set in. The juxtaposition of breathtaking colour and art, and the dreary undertone of the unknown & the ever-changing refraction of DNA leaves the viewer with a genuine unique and memorable visual journey, regardless of what you can take from the films multi faceted and interpretational meanings (anything goes, really.. I've read theories that this film is just basically an allusion to cancer). Also Let us not forget that this film at its core is reminiscent of a cerebral sci-fi film with a twang of absurdist horror, for example the scene with the bear and it’s roar mixed with the harrowing shrieks of pain from shepherds final moment is utterly disturbing and terrifying. One last thing, can we not forget about the score. Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow, bravo my dudes. The pure unease and tension of the build up of abstract, environmental noises with harrowing synths and bellowing surges of sub-bass to keep you planted on your seat. Just brilliant music imo.… Expand

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9

UltimatmovieguyFeb 28, 2018

From writer and director Alex Garland, Annihilation is about a team of researchers who go into this unknown zone that has appeared called ‘The Shimmer’ to investigate what it is, why it’s here, and how it’s growing and changing itsFrom writer and director Alex Garland, Annihilation is about a team of researchers who go into this unknown zone that has appeared called ‘The Shimmer’ to investigate what it is, why it’s here, and how it’s growing and changing its surroundings so rapidly. I was a fan of Garland’s last film he wrote and directed, Ex Machina, for his tightly written dialogue and mesmerizing scene development with great acting and a surprising amount of action as well. His work on that film transfers over beautifully to Annihilation with a substantially bigger budget and a wider variety of acting as well. Even though this script has substantially less dialogue than his last film, each and every line is executed beautifully and the audience feels the impact of every one as well. His direction in this movie is flawless with the proper use of slow motion and the mix of special effects and practical makes it mesmerizing every second the cast is in the shimmer. Like I said the dialogue is practically flawless with it’s variety of characters and unique builds in this film. The twists written come across very well and are fleshed out beautifully with its amazing cast and great direction. Rob Hardy’s work on cinematography is amazing with his offsetting shots and beautifully crafted scenes. With him working on Ex Machina with Garland they have now developed a system that is just pumping out more and more beautiful movies every few years now. Acting wise everyone did a flawless job in this film. Natalie Portman I believe has never done a bad or even a decent performance, when she hits the screen she’s impeccable with every role, every character, every scene, every line of dialogue that she executes in every film she’s in. Jennifer Jason Leigh did an amazing job once again as Dr. Ventress in this film, I grew a very big liking for her from her performance in The Hateful Eight. Even Gina Rodriguez and Tessa Thompson did amazing jobs for their polar-opposite characters in this film. One of the biggest parts of this film is the make p done on the cast and it’s by far the best looking makeup of the year. The scars on characters and tattoos being strategically placed on the characters makes this films story just more and more impactful with every watch. The blood and gore used is beautiful combined with great prosthetics and for gore and creatures as well. Annihilation I believe will be one of the best sleeper movies of the year with it’s highly original sci-fi story and great direction and acting with a flawless blend of CGI and practical effects used. My only complaint has to be a subplot that attempts to flesh out Portman's character a bit more, I felt it’s not necessary and drags the runtime out a little bit too long. Minus that it’s a near perfect sci-fi movie. I have to give this film a 9.25/10… Expand

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9

MaxJadueFeb 27, 2018

With mesmerizing visuals, a chilling score, and strong performances, Alex Garland's book to film adaption "Annihilation" doesn't disappoint. From start to finish, your eyes are glued to the screen and you can't look away from an almostWith mesmerizing visuals, a chilling score, and strong performances, Alex Garland's book to film adaption "Annihilation" doesn't disappoint. From start to finish, your eyes are glued to the screen and you can't look away from an almost masterpiece of a film, leaving the audience with chills down their spines. "Annihilation" is sure to go down as one of the great Sci-Fi films and, no doubt, one of the best films of the year thus far.… Expand

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9

OmarGarciaMar 28, 2018

The film could’ve benefited from a few tweaks here and there but this is the best sci-fi gilm since Arrival.