Children of Men
Universal Pictures | Release Date: December 25, 2006
8.5
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 1368 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
1,172
Mixed:
81
Negative:
115
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
3
ApocalypseBrownMar 3, 2007
Pathetic! Tries hard to be something it can never be, which is classy.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
8
PatrickG.Feb 28, 2007
Wonderful film. Most unjustly snubbed year-end movie of 2006. Fu.k the award-givers. 'The Departed' was pure garbage next to this.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JimA.Feb 23, 2007
A very good film with interesting scenes. It shows future with an alternative way and not as happy as some others films do!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
[Anonoymous]Feb 22, 2007
I just got back from giving Babel a 2. Mainly because it failed miserably at everything this movie was able to accomplish. Children of Men is much more relevent to our worried and paranoid times, and top that off with some flat out I just got back from giving Babel a 2. Mainly because it failed miserably at everything this movie was able to accomplish. Children of Men is much more relevent to our worried and paranoid times, and top that off with some flat out mindblowing scenes (those who have seen it know which one in particular I'm talking about). Babel takes our fears as a society and does nothing but exploit them as Oscar bait. Children doesn't use them, but shows us our fears in order to bring us closer as a race and give us hope. Easily the most important film to come from post-9/11 cinema.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HariS.Feb 21, 2007
The best movie of 2006, perfect. Original, emotional, intelligent, dark. Great script, great characters, great story. And the best of it is the amazing approach of Alfonso Cuaron. Amazing
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
TomA.Feb 19, 2007
Pretty lame. I was excited to see the movie after reading several reviews. I wasn't impressed. Clive Owen gave a great performance, as did Michael Caine, but the plot was convoluted and weak. Not recommended.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JoeC.Feb 18, 2007
This was the best movie I saw all year, hands down. The cinematography alone will capture your mind and not let go. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and go now!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelG.Feb 17, 2007
Definitely one of the best movies in cinematography. I would place it in the same raw with such as Clockwork Orange, Blade Runner, Platoon, God Father, Dogville, Piano Teacher, Tarnation e.t.c Go in watch it in the cinema if you can. Not Definitely one of the best movies in cinematography. I would place it in the same raw with such as Clockwork Orange, Blade Runner, Platoon, God Father, Dogville, Piano Teacher, Tarnation e.t.c Go in watch it in the cinema if you can. Not DVD. Very intelligent, good casted, great directed unbeleavable filmed, and very clever sound design! You will leave the theatre with only one word...WOW… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PaulFeb 17, 2007
WOW this movie was awesome! I can't believe one reviewer said it was boring! It took about 10 minutes to get into it, but once the craziness started, it never stopped. And I was amazed at some of the camerawork and editing. One scene WOW this movie was awesome! I can't believe one reviewer said it was boring! It took about 10 minutes to get into it, but once the craziness started, it never stopped. And I was amazed at some of the camerawork and editing. One scene near the end, where there were bombs going off, bullets flying, tanks shooting buildings, looked like it was done all in one shot! I dont know how they did it, but it made for one f***ing intense scene!!! This is one movie I'll be buying soon.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DrewFeb 17, 2007
Cassandra, sounds like your typical brain washed fox news fangirl (did I leave out brain washed christian too?). Why do people let their second-hand opinions about politics and religion, dictate their opinions that they actually have control Cassandra, sounds like your typical brain washed fox news fangirl (did I leave out brain washed christian too?). Why do people let their second-hand opinions about politics and religion, dictate their opinions that they actually have control over? This movie was much better than a 1. Good acting and great technical prowless 9 times out of 10 trumps anything that usually comes out of Hollywood.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
BobS.Feb 16, 2007
THe film's story seems to be made up as they went along. It is often just inane. Although I liked much of the acting, story is important too and this film lacks a coherent one, and we have violence for the sake of violence. A wasted effort.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
VM.Feb 15, 2007
This movie is the definition of pretentious. And it is boring. Be warned.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
SambistagirlFeb 15, 2007
This was a great movie. Very exciting. The attention to detail was fantastic. A little depressing at times, but very good.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PaulD.Feb 15, 2007
One of the best movies I've seen. Beautiful, horrifying, impactful and unpretentious.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
EricJ.Feb 13, 2007
This movie was excellent. It's more about human nature than politics. The government isn't the villain of the movie. In fact, it's the rebels that betray their own. Those who see the movie for something it isn't only This movie was excellent. It's more about human nature than politics. The government isn't the villain of the movie. In fact, it's the rebels that betray their own. Those who see the movie for something it isn't only prove the point. We all have our own agenda, and only a few manage to break the pattern.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
JosephFeb 12, 2007
I read many reviews before deciding to go see this movie. Every critic said there was a "clear message of hope" to be found in the movie. However, I found no message of hope. The political message was so painfully blunt and forced that it I read many reviews before deciding to go see this movie. Every critic said there was a "clear message of hope" to be found in the movie. However, I found no message of hope. The political message was so painfully blunt and forced that it made me cringe. Unfortunately, that political message is the only part of this movie with any substance. I still wish I had walked out of the theater when I first thought about it (about 30 minutes into it).… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
AndrewF.Feb 12, 2007
The best film of the decade. Technically astonishing, full of joy and passion and of utter misery. It's frighteningly realistic, and that's why it's so powerful. We can see these things happening to us, and we can understand The best film of the decade. Technically astonishing, full of joy and passion and of utter misery. It's frighteningly realistic, and that's why it's so powerful. We can see these things happening to us, and we can understand the psychology of the characters. Too many people are stuck in the so-called "politics" of the film- it's not about politics. It's about the human condition and what it means to be just a small speck in this seemingly incomprehensible world; it's about hope and despair; it's about being alive. I just may call this the greatest film achievement ever.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
CassandraFeb 12, 2007
Behold a boring leftist fantasy (replete with cheap, already dated, political shots) masquerading as something deep. Fine acting (mostly wasted) and technical virtuosity do not a good story make. I
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AramisG.Feb 12, 2007
Who exactly does the politics of this film offend? And since when is it off limits to put a political statement in a film? Unless you sat through this movie with political tunnel vision, I think you would notice they do a convincing job of Who exactly does the politics of this film offend? And since when is it off limits to put a political statement in a film? Unless you sat through this movie with political tunnel vision, I think you would notice they do a convincing job of show the evils of extremism left or right. This film has some of the most intense war zone scenes I've seen since Saving Private Ryan. It does an outstanding job of balancing the frailties of life against the harsh brutalities of war. If it does have an overt political message, it is that war is hell on Earth. I think both sides can agree on that.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AlexFeb 11, 2007
I feel sorry for all the reviewers who could not put politics aside when they saw this movie. The main message has NOTHING to do with politics. It was a wonderful film that keeps you on the edge of your seat for a full 2 hours. If you come I feel sorry for all the reviewers who could not put politics aside when they saw this movie. The main message has NOTHING to do with politics. It was a wonderful film that keeps you on the edge of your seat for a full 2 hours. If you come out of this movie mad about the politics portrayed in the movie, you don't get it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
JasonC.Feb 10, 2007
The idea was interesting, but it felt a bit like a boring version of Blade Runner. Not enough plot twists for my taste. It was a very linear story line with a "that's it" sort of ending.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BouncerFeb 9, 2007
Politics from any side turns people into monsters. Left wingers are not immune to the politicized images presented. To think that this film is solely a critique of the Bush administration is a farcical statement at best. There is a reason Politics from any side turns people into monsters. Left wingers are not immune to the politicized images presented. To think that this film is solely a critique of the Bush administration is a farcical statement at best. There is a reason why the camera follows the action over Clive Owen's shoulder, and not anyone else's. Clive Owen is no bleeding heart liberal--the movie makes that much clear--so put the ideology away and watch a masterpiece in character development unfold in some of those rivettingly shot scenes in cinematic history. Boom.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JeffG.Feb 5, 2007
Extraordinary film. Should have been nominated for Best Director and Picture. I saw this about 5 weeks ago and still think about it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoshC.Feb 3, 2007
An excellent adaptation of a compelling novel. The difference between the two is a telling comment on our post 9/11 world. Whereas the novel depicts a benevolent but ineffectual government helping its aging citizens come to terms with the An excellent adaptation of a compelling novel. The difference between the two is a telling comment on our post 9/11 world. Whereas the novel depicts a benevolent but ineffectual government helping its aging citizens come to terms with the extinction of their species, the movie shows a grim and fiercely defensive government locking down the last surviving bastion of civilization. The end results of both are the same: a semi-hopeful yet resigned plunge into the inevitable. The image from the movie that continues to haunt me is one of a mushroom cloud over Manhattan that appears in a montage show on a video screen while Theo rides the bus. It's a grimly familiar site that grips me with a deep chill.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BruceR.Feb 3, 2007
Without question, the best film of 2006 and, for me, the best film of the last ten years. Superb!!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
2
JohnF.Feb 3, 2007
I assume the high rating from people is more a political statement instead a true evaluation of the movie. I was very disapointed. The movie was slow and boring. The political message was beaten into us. I expected much better.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JeannieFeb 2, 2007
A dystopic, boring, depressing, confusing vision of the future, and very politicized for our present state of affairs. The "immigrant rights" angle is one case in point. Lots of logical inconsistencies, unsympathetic, poorly-developed A dystopic, boring, depressing, confusing vision of the future, and very politicized for our present state of affairs. The "immigrant rights" angle is one case in point. Lots of logical inconsistencies, unsympathetic, poorly-developed characters, melancholy cinematography, gratuitous violence. I would not recommend this piece of left-wing propaganda to anyone remotely optimistic about the future. And the "music" stunk. Thumbs down!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
TrudyP.Jan 31, 2007
Certainly one of the finest films I have seen in years...why can't they make more films like this???
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PaulG.Jan 30, 2007
Children of Men is gripping and exciting from beginning to end. It should win the Academey Awards for screenwriting, edting and cinematography.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
StephenV.Jan 30, 2007
Departing from the trend in recent movie-making history, Cuarón crafts a movie that doesn't have to spell everything out, because the story isn't about the tragedy of infertility, but the tragedy of apathy in a society Departing from the trend in recent movie-making history, Cuarón crafts a movie that doesn't have to spell everything out, because the story isn't about the tragedy of infertility, but the tragedy of apathy in a society facing its own demise. Well thought-out, and stunning in presentation and value.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BitBurnJan 29, 2007
That one part near the end (don't want to spoil it!!!) is easily one of the most moving scenes I have ever seen in a film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
TyeN.Jan 29, 2007
Children of Men is the best film of 2006. Hands down. It's so good, it easily makes my top 5 films of all time. Alfonso Cuaron has crafted the most important film of the year, and one that will be remembered for generations to come. Children of Men is the best film of 2006. Hands down. It's so good, it easily makes my top 5 films of all time. Alfonso Cuaron has crafted the most important film of the year, and one that will be remembered for generations to come. Clive Owen brings quiet anger and desperation as Theo, an ex-activist who, like everyone else on Earth, is mourning the loss of Baby Diego, an 18-year-old who is the last born person on the planet. The year is 2027, and everyone has been mysteriously infertile since 2009. Terrorism is rampant, and the country (the film takes place in Great Britain) is in lockdown. However, small rebel groups are sill trying to figure this mystery out on their own. Among them are the Fishes, lead by Julian (Julianne Moore), an activist, and ex-lover of Theo, with the passion of having lost a child. Julian is a woman who finds answers at any cost, and due to his pull, she needs Theo. Once he's pulled into her plan (he initially does it for money, but you get the sense that there's still some spark left in their romance), he can't get out. Theo is a man who has lost hope, but he is reminded that hope exists when he's introduced to Kee (Claire-Hope Ashitey), a young woman who is pregnant and desperately needs the aid of sources outside of Britain. Using all of his resources, including his stoner compadre Jasper (a wonderful Michael Caine), Theo vows to help Kee, a living miracle who brings hope back to a man who believed it was lost forever. Cuaron's directing is top-notch, and he was robbed of an Oscar nomination. And the performances; some of the best of the year. Owen is a force to be reckoned with. He perfectly captures the sadness, the menace, and the compassion lurking beneath Theo's rough exterior. Caine is a hoot and a heart-breaker as Jasper, a man who has faith in a world that has lost their's. As Julian, Moore is fierce as a one-woman army of integrity and force. And as Kee, new comer Claire-Hope Ashitey makes Kee a young girl forced to become a woman, and one of strong will. With no one to use as a reference for pregnancy, she's a scared girl that is going through something that is not only life changing, but history making. Children of Men is fantastic film making, and brings about a message of hope in desperate and challenging times. It really couldn't have come at a better time.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
V.MartinezJan 28, 2007
A stinker...Pop a chewable Prozac before you see this one, because it's bleeping depressing. The world falls completely apart in the next 20 years?? Must be global warming's fault. Underground rebels, fascist soldiers, more chase A stinker...Pop a chewable Prozac before you see this one, because it's bleeping depressing. The world falls completely apart in the next 20 years?? Must be global warming's fault. Underground rebels, fascist soldiers, more chase scenes, cliche here, cliche there. So many unanswered questions that I stopped caring about anything this movie tried to convey, namely that dogs can reproduce, but humans can't (shouldn't?) :0) Maybe Part II will be Puppies of Dogs. Seriously, there are so many people giving this mediocre movie a 9 or 10 that I think maybe our world might look like this in 20 years (me? I'll be in the 'Fugee' section begging for my $9 back).… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
GlennF.Jan 28, 2007
Random, nihilistic, and violent. I kept waiting for an explanation for the improbable political and military decisions, which never came. Defies scientific explanation as well. Well-shot sequences in a boring bummer of a film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
RachelR.Jan 27, 2007
Not a bad movie, but throughout I was left with a feeling that I had seen this all before and I had seen it done much more cleverly. Twelve Monkeys, 28 Days Later, all better movies.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
CarlosdelN.Jan 27, 2007
Well worth seeing just for the cinematography. The first half is completely riveting; unfortunately, it becomes a bit of a conventional chase movie towards the end. Still, this is far better than the overwhelming majority of flicks.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MobiusJan 27, 2007
A rare treat. it has some very clever camera work. the story seems to be told from Clive Owens perspective so you only know what he knows you never understand who the fish are and why various groups are fighting but for me that makes the A rare treat. it has some very clever camera work. the story seems to be told from Clive Owens perspective so you only know what he knows you never understand who the fish are and why various groups are fighting but for me that makes the film focus on the charactors and there are some touching moments. look at this film as the journey of one man that gets caught up in something much bigger himself. watch it and enjoy the journey.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ReidF.Jan 27, 2007
Post-apocalyptic films can be somewhat undecipherable (
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
LMJan 27, 2007
Generally when these things try to make statements, they give some sort of action call at the end. The only take home message I got was make babies while you can. On the bright side of things, it might be a good husband/wife outting. Just Generally when these things try to make statements, they give some sort of action call at the end. The only take home message I got was make babies while you can. On the bright side of things, it might be a good husband/wife outting. Just make sure you set up the college fund first.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
GlennS.Jan 26, 2007
Most depressing movie I've every seen, bar none. I spent a year in Viet Nam, and this movie made me physically ill.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
TimS.Jan 26, 2007
Brilliant movie. The plot is pretty good but could do with a little more explanation. However the pace is brilliant as is the acting. Where this movie scores best is the cinematography...absolutely incredible. It has to be some of the most Brilliant movie. The plot is pretty good but could do with a little more explanation. However the pace is brilliant as is the acting. Where this movie scores best is the cinematography...absolutely incredible. It has to be some of the most important filmaking in recent memory. See it for yourselves!!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JJJan 25, 2007
I just can't stop thinking about this one. Don't believe any nitwits that knock Children Of Men; they are too distracted by waiting to get their first driver's license to judge the movie fairly. An instant classic, and I just can't stop thinking about this one. Don't believe any nitwits that knock Children Of Men; they are too distracted by waiting to get their first driver's license to judge the movie fairly. An instant classic, and possibly one of the best-photographed movies ever made.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RodneyMarxJan 25, 2007
This movie provides a surreal, action-packed experience. The camera angles put you in the action, and the locales are very realistic. This is one of the best movies of the year, by far.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ShawnM.Jan 24, 2007
Best movie I've seen this year. Cinematography is brilliant. Great sci-fi, great acting, great actors. Please go see it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
JeffD.Jan 24, 2007
This movie has the same feel as "28 days later" yet fails to bring the audience in and allow them to care what's happening to the characters. Storyline had great potential but is filled with meaningless and uninteresting dialog as well This movie has the same feel as "28 days later" yet fails to bring the audience in and allow them to care what's happening to the characters. Storyline had great potential but is filled with meaningless and uninteresting dialog as well as an over-abundance of violence which adds nothing to the story or the progression of the characters themselves. A 2-hour waste of time.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
MikeyP.Jan 24, 2007
Why, why, why? Every year- a couple times a year, unfortunately - the critics latch onto some average-at-best movie and praise it like it's the second coming of "Apocalypse Now." I just don't get it. There's really not much to Why, why, why? Every year- a couple times a year, unfortunately - the critics latch onto some average-at-best movie and praise it like it's the second coming of "Apocalypse Now." I just don't get it. There's really not much to like in "Children of Men." It's the "A History of Violence" phenomenom. Two words: stay away.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
ShermanS.Jan 23, 2007
I found this movie quite tedious. There was chaos everywhere but you never saw the government behind it, just the results. It was clear that any moment the characters in the movie realized they could only expect the worst, so there was no I found this movie quite tedious. There was chaos everywhere but you never saw the government behind it, just the results. It was clear that any moment the characters in the movie realized they could only expect the worst, so there was no surprise that the worst happened. They really had little control over anything and so I didn't care what happened and was glad when the movie was over. I think to care would have been like rooting for a pinball as it bounced around in its game-bound world. Not likely. There have been plenty of chaotic/anarchic views of the future in movies and this film did nothing new for me. Go see V for Vendetta; at least it makes a political statement.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GrayB.Jan 23, 2007
First of all, the movie is NOT trying to reflect any US policy, nor is it about politics. For the person who couldn't understand why the animals reproduced but the humans became infertile, you are comparing apples to oranges. The First of all, the movie is NOT trying to reflect any US policy, nor is it about politics. For the person who couldn't understand why the animals reproduced but the humans became infertile, you are comparing apples to oranges. The "cease-fire" happened because no one had seen a baby in 18 years! The movie did not wrap up neatly because nothing in life wraps up neatly. If the movie had answered every question, e.g. "what is the human project" or "how did humans become infertile" it would not have allowed me to come up with answers on my own. That's what makes the movie engaging.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RexJan 23, 2007
A dark view of the World when hope is lost and the end is near. The beginning of the movie does not properly set up the middle and end. What exactly happened to the rest of the world? Why is Great Britain the only country to remain intact? I A dark view of the World when hope is lost and the end is near. The beginning of the movie does not properly set up the middle and end. What exactly happened to the rest of the world? Why is Great Britain the only country to remain intact? I have not read the book, which I plan on doing shortly, but I would imagine it is much better than the film. Also, what caused the infertility, the flu pandemic . . .? Too many questions left unanswered. Good, but not great.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ReyG.Jan 23, 2007
Good plot, well acted, surprising finale.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
Vs.D.Jan 23, 2007
This movie was boring from start to finish. The characters were in no way compelling. I can't believe it took 5 writers to adapt a plot-driven novel into a film and that, combined, this snoozefest is what they came up with. Skip it.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
LeirisJan 22, 2007
In between the trite dialogue and predicable plot turns there is a very good looking film with something to say. If they took some more of that god-awful Hollywood formula out it could have been remarkable.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelB.Jan 22, 2007
Outstanding film. From its opening moments it really grabbed me. While the film is riveting, t's got some great moments of black comedy, too. Definitely one of the best films I've seen in ages. Cuaron is a superb director.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
BarryG.Jan 22, 2007
Ya know when you wake up and its overcast, cold, dreery and drizzling. You just want to go back inside and pull the covers up over your head. If had a blanket during this movie, i would have done the same thing...even on the ju-ju bean dried Ya know when you wake up and its overcast, cold, dreery and drizzling. You just want to go back inside and pull the covers up over your head. If had a blanket during this movie, i would have done the same thing...even on the ju-ju bean dried up coke strewn floor. This movie was a disappointment on so many levels i dont know where to begin. No developed plot, no character development and continual (but non-gruesome) violence to make your stomach turn. And the ending made the entire theater leave with confused faces, angry stomps and even laughs. I cannot believe the critics loved this one. Its a total unadulterated mess i wouldnt waste a rental on.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ThatMovieGuyJan 21, 2007
Beautiful. Reminds me of not the style, but film-making mastery of Kubrick.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JMB.Jan 20, 2007
P.B., if you had any perception you'd have noticed that this movie was beyond and above politics (only people with ridiculous shortsightedness could accuse the film's motives of being political). It's a terrific thriller with P.B., if you had any perception you'd have noticed that this movie was beyond and above politics (only people with ridiculous shortsightedness could accuse the film's motives of being political). It's a terrific thriller with something too many thrillers lack; a real heart. It's not out to preach politics. Stunningly filmed and deep without being to bleak, it's one of the best movies of the last few years.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JasonK.Jan 20, 2007
Just saw it today and absolutely loved it. It was gritty, it was grimy. It was real.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelL.Jan 20, 2007
Without a doubt, the best, most startling movie of the year, if not the decade. It MUST be seen. It brings clearly into focus a world which is just around the corner--if not here already. Brilliant performances mixed with so many stunning Without a doubt, the best, most startling movie of the year, if not the decade. It MUST be seen. It brings clearly into focus a world which is just around the corner--if not here already. Brilliant performances mixed with so many stunning moments...if the Oscars were anything more than a joke, this film would win in every catagory. See it. Now.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PeterB.Jan 19, 2007
Excellent movie, one of the best of the year. Quite simply because Cuaron does a fine job, most one camera scenes are just splendid. Ia gree that its an OK plot but im disappointed to see that most who gave it a 1, justify thorugh its lack Excellent movie, one of the best of the year. Quite simply because Cuaron does a fine job, most one camera scenes are just splendid. Ia gree that its an OK plot but im disappointed to see that most who gave it a 1, justify thorugh its lack of coherence or its too many answered questions. I believe this movie is mostly about a man and we basicly know as much as he does. Its a movie about hope not salvation.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JamesD.Jan 19, 2007
Script was lazy not enough history to feel with the characters why would one baby give hope. More imagination could have made this a great film about humanity instead of an action film with good characters.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
AndrewG.Jan 19, 2007
1) Premise is a more secular rip off of the god awful "Left Behind" series. 2) Reminded me of War of the Worlds in the way that most of the action played out. 3) Stupid, unbelievable things happened at very important points in the movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
CalvinJ.Jan 18, 2007
Take the movie as it is. There are some parts which they should have gone more in depth, but it was nevertheless moving and a microscopic examination of our nation's priorities today.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DanC.Jan 17, 2007
One of the best premises I can recall mixed with just so-so execution. It didn't quite work for me. The uprising in the end didn't make much sense in the context of a prison camp (where did all those assault rifles come from? where One of the best premises I can recall mixed with just so-so execution. It didn't quite work for me. The uprising in the end didn't make much sense in the context of a prison camp (where did all those assault rifles come from? where did those Islamic militants get them???). Clive Owen is extremely good. Worth seeing, but ultimately not fully realized.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PadraigJ.Jan 17, 2007
Wow. I couldn't walk on the street afterward because I thought somebody was going to shoot me! And there's so many surprises in this movie- like the way it doesn't pander by explaining everybody's political motive in Wow. I couldn't walk on the street afterward because I thought somebody was going to shoot me! And there's so many surprises in this movie- like the way it doesn't pander by explaining everybody's political motive in detail. The closest thing I think to experiencing what it must be like in the Mideast--I so thought I was going to get shot walking down the street afterwards!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JamesJan 17, 2007
The most harrowing and thrilling movie I've seen in a long time. Great cinematography and message. Instant classic.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
kJan 16, 2007
People are too into being entertained by movies and do not see that this is a realistic view of where our future is headed, there will be no brotherhood, peace, & coming together. Sex, violence & suing seem to be all people care about. People are too into being entertained by movies and do not see that this is a realistic view of where our future is headed, there will be no brotherhood, peace, & coming together. Sex, violence & suing seem to be all people care about. racism is on the rise, the environment is being destroyed. the film was hopefully an eyeopener to some. the soldiers let them through because for a brief minute they were dumbfounded, which did not last long because violence comes before the miracle.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RitaS.Jan 16, 2007
Truely a frightening cinematic masterpiece of a future right on our doorstep!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AndyL.Jan 16, 2007
Please ignore the ones and twos inexplicably given by some viewers of this film. If someone is unable to follow the taut, driven narrative of this film, they probably can't find their way home without a map. Cuaron brilliantlyPlease ignore the ones and twos inexplicably given by some viewers of this film. If someone is unable to follow the taut, driven narrative of this film, they probably can't find their way home without a map. Cuaron brilliantly illumiinates the razor's edge world in which we live, and crafts a deeply felt parable about where we look for hope amidst hopelessness, and the dangers of ideology run rampant, whether from the right OR the left.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
DavW.Jan 15, 2007
Not bad, although not nearly as good as i hoped. It was a very nicely done movie with a good balance of plot and action, however from the look of the movie I just expected something more than what it actually delivered, a bit of a let down.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RoggyR.Jan 15, 2007
This is an amazing movie. It is technically brilliant and emotionally engaging. Other reveiwers who claim that character development and plot were "nonsensical" must have been paying more attention to their popcorn than to the subtleties of This is an amazing movie. It is technically brilliant and emotionally engaging. Other reveiwers who claim that character development and plot were "nonsensical" must have been paying more attention to their popcorn than to the subtleties of the film. I found myself wrapped up in the events unfolding on the screen at every turn. Bravo Cuaron, bravo Clive Owen!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GusJan 15, 2007
phenomenal distopyan flick
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChuckG.Jan 15, 2007
This is not only my favorite movie of the year, but one of my favorite movies of all time. I had to go back to the theater to see it again. This is the proper way to tell a story on the screen, anyone who wishes to make a good film in the This is not only my favorite movie of the year, but one of my favorite movies of all time. I had to go back to the theater to see it again. This is the proper way to tell a story on the screen, anyone who wishes to make a good film in the future had better take notes from this one. The story was good and simple, straightforward from beginning to end and had me on the edge of my seat for more than half the scenes. For once, there were no loose ends, nothing left needing, the story was full and finished. And the cinematography was unbelievable, almost impossibly fantastic in two much talked about long shots. But the reason I call this movie one of the greatest is the gripping untensity that I have never experienced in any movie I have ever seen. I will see this many more times.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MinnehappinessJan 15, 2007
One of the best films I've seen in a long time. I think this puts Curaon up there with Kubrick as one of the most devastingly good directors ever. The atmosphere, the textures, the details to every scene, the way he puts the viewer One of the best films I've seen in a long time. I think this puts Curaon up there with Kubrick as one of the most devastingly good directors ever. The atmosphere, the textures, the details to every scene, the way he puts the viewer inside the story, it's all done like a master of film. Good performances, amazing action, food for thought, and heavy emotions hang under the surface. If you're ok with not having everything explained or wrapped up for you about the background story of the world in chaos, then you're in for a fanstastic story. I think to explain all the back story would either come across as too simplistic or take too much time from what essentially is a nativity story set in a crumbling violent world.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
IrwinJan 15, 2007
Hardly original, Children of Men
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
AllyM.Jan 14, 2007
Beautiful. Riveting. Tragic. Superb. The best movie I have seen in a very very long time. Flawless acting, actual surprises, fabulous cinematography, and a great screenplay. The car in reverse scene is amazing. Think about it being shot in Beautiful. Riveting. Tragic. Superb. The best movie I have seen in a very very long time. Flawless acting, actual surprises, fabulous cinematography, and a great screenplay. The car in reverse scene is amazing. Think about it being shot in one take. And the best war scene since Saving Private Ryan. Glorious.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
ClayJ.Jan 14, 2007
Did anyone notice that all the other mammals in the movie (lots of cats, dogs, farm animals) seemed to have no trouble at all reproducing? Humans are MAMMALS! A totally stupid storyline! Horrible movie!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
RobertIvyJan 14, 2007
Scenes of a futureworld turned sour crackle with immediacy and life. It's a trip through a cracked looking glass into a broken world.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LauraGJan 14, 2007
Excellent overall. For those who found the story premise so powerful, do read the 1992 novel by P.D.James. James' story has been radically altered - everything from the characters to the ending - but the movie retains the gut-clinching Excellent overall. For those who found the story premise so powerful, do read the 1992 novel by P.D.James. James' story has been radically altered - everything from the characters to the ending - but the movie retains the gut-clinching realization that it could happen and how horrifying it would be. Knowing that society is aging itself out of existence would in all likelihood give rise to anarchy and/or military law, bizarre religious actions, and various other unknowable reactions. What is the purpose of human life if everything human ends? The movie definitely draws you in. The characters, however, don't always pull their weight with the story - they just aren't strong enough for the movie to be character-driven. I think that's why many reviewers loathe not knowing what happens. The entire reason the movie works is that you want to know what happens, it's what you care about, and you don't actually get that in the end. Some people, like me, are fine with that, and others not so much! Clive Owen's acting kept making me think about a super-flat-anti-emotion Nicholas Cage. Kee needed to be far far more engrossing as a person. But otherwise, strongly presented, Amazingly Filmed, and definitely makes you think about the future.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PaulFratianniJan 14, 2007
Less so about entertainment Children of Men is a social commentary. Pro-Lifers will see it from their point of view just as much as environmentalist and the anti-war crowd will from theirs. It could be seen as an amalgamation of all theseLess so about entertainment Children of Men is a social commentary. Pro-Lifers will see it from their point of view just as much as environmentalist and the anti-war crowd will from theirs. It could be seen as an amalgamation of all these views focusing on an over arching theme of a lack of respect for life in the modern times we live.
There was a poignant scene in the movie ***WARNING SPOILERS*** when Michael Caines character, Jasper, asks whether ultimately the universe is about faith or chance. Though a nice an intelligent character he is marred by the suffering in the world leaning towards a nihilist ethos. Yet still his character is willing to sacrifice in hopes for a better world.

In my opinion the world is about both faith and chance, faith being the enlightened actions of mankind and chance being the senselessness. Clare-Hope Ashitey character, Kee, points this beautifully by asking why are the tits of cows cut off to fit a four utter machine. Why do they simply make one for six? Man in his senselessness ideology, tradition, greed, etc, cause most of the suffering in this world.

However there is almost a sense of a universal cosmic conspiracy that seems to go on at the same time. It seems that one thing after another goes wrong for Clive Owens Character, Theo, with cars that won… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GarouJan 14, 2007
One of the best movies ever made, sensational acting from Clive Owen, love the photography, the argument, mindblowing movie. Every review against it is so simplistic an shallow that is simply not to be taken into consideration.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
YoungCollegeStudentJan 14, 2007
the scene where Clive and the mother and daughter walk out of the building, past the adoring refugees and the stunned soldiers is pure brilliance.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChaseJan 13, 2007
This is my favorite movie of 2006. While I liked Pan's Labyrinth (everyones pick), The Queen, and The Departed, Children of Men is what filters to the top for me. Some seem put off by the lack of a resolution, but I hate movies that tie This is my favorite movie of 2006. While I liked Pan's Labyrinth (everyones pick), The Queen, and The Departed, Children of Men is what filters to the top for me. Some seem put off by the lack of a resolution, but I hate movies that tie up the story in a neat little bow for me. You are judging what you see on screen, not what you didn't see. The camerawork here is first rate stuff, and Clive Owen is perfect as the anti-hero.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
CraigG.Jan 13, 2007
While I agree with many of the reviews that the cinematography was excellent, the character development and plot were both nonsensical and somehow oversimplified. Tell me again how why those soldiers just let Clive Owen and Kee just walk out While I agree with many of the reviews that the cinematography was excellent, the character development and plot were both nonsensical and somehow oversimplified. Tell me again how why those soldiers just let Clive Owen and Kee just walk out of that building?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
BadbadbadJan 13, 2007
So if the future is f***ed, how do people still have such beautiful flat screen TVs and telejournalism still so ordered? Perhaps everything is done out of England. Very likely.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
DamonC.Jan 13, 2007
Very disappointing. This is NOT of the best movies of 2006. The narrative is a jumbled mess, the ending is thematically ambiguous - if humankind is so bad, then isn't better to just let it go away? the baby is not a symbol of innocence, Very disappointing. This is NOT of the best movies of 2006. The narrative is a jumbled mess, the ending is thematically ambiguous - if humankind is so bad, then isn't better to just let it go away? the baby is not a symbol of innocence, but naive hope that will only be dashed again and again, for THAT is the message of COM. Watch for the B+ cinematography, and okay acting from Clive Owen, but forget about everything else.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SethM.Jan 13, 2007
Hands down the best, most affecting film I have seen this year. In several years, actually. Don't listen to those who tell you it has gaps in its timeline or is discombobulated in any way - none of that matters. This is where things Hands down the best, most affecting film I have seen this year. In several years, actually. Don't listen to those who tell you it has gaps in its timeline or is discombobulated in any way - none of that matters. This is where things stand - this is the way the world is. Deal with it. If human society had really degenerated to this degree, would anyone out there really care about filling you in on what you missed? And if the scene in the stairwell at the end does not move you in any way, then I'm afraid you are dead.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesK.Jan 13, 2007
I've never felt so physically present in a movie, or as convinced of a near-future world. Amazing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
JudyT.Jan 13, 2007
Pointless message movie. Says nothing about brotherhood and people being inspired to come together.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
JulienJan 12, 2007
Great movie, with an interesting political speech! Probably the best cinematography of year 2006. I've never seen such amazing urban-war scenes before. And we now have to deal with the fact that Clive Owen is gonna be one of the best Great movie, with an interesting political speech! Probably the best cinematography of year 2006. I've never seen such amazing urban-war scenes before. And we now have to deal with the fact that Clive Owen is gonna be one of the best actor of tomorrow.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
Lance"The'OlP"RomanceJan 12, 2007
It's a difficult thing, defining a masterpiece, especially when the term is thrown about all too casually. And I wouldn't want to call this film 'important' either, because I don't believe it is a word that should It's a difficult thing, defining a masterpiece, especially when the term is thrown about all too casually. And I wouldn't want to call this film 'important' either, because I don't believe it is a word that should ever be used when defining ANY work of art. A film (or anything at all for that matter) is only as important as you're willing to make it. I sometimes wish people wouldn't be so shallow as to spend so much of their precious time and energy on something as superficial as a series of moving images projected onto a large white screen, no matter its contents. Yet here I am, like many of you, spending both my time and energy typing away about this film (even if I do so implicitly). And so, I find that I am left with two possibilities; either I am just another shallow western civilian wasting away in contemplation of foolish things, or Children Of Men is truly important to me. In reality, both of these are true...and in a nutshell, this is what Children Of Men is all about. It's about most us, those of us who are 'aware' yet not bothered enough to transcend their mere 'awareness' of the problem. That is, until something comes along and lights a fire under their asses. For me, it may be this mere film, Children Of Men.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ElisabethN.Jan 12, 2007
An excellent and deeply disturbing film, that ended five minutes early.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
1
HarryW.Jan 11, 2007
What happens here? Certainly the film won't fill you in. Children of Men is a mess of discombobulated ideas without a thread of coherence. Clive Owen slogs through it bravely. Julianne Moore was likely present for a rehearsal or two and What happens here? Certainly the film won't fill you in. Children of Men is a mess of discombobulated ideas without a thread of coherence. Clive Owen slogs through it bravely. Julianne Moore was likely present for a rehearsal or two and a few takes of minor scenes, and then bye bye. Michael Caine had to be stoned to participate in his few scenes. While Blade Runner was a sharply focused stylized masterpiece, this is a dim-witted, darkly photographed nonsensical story. Promotional claptrap comparing the two. This flick is very hard to watch and even harder to feel involved with. The outrageousness is made more so by the mere 20 years gap before society has supposedly disintegrated. If the birth of a baby sparks hope for continuing the society pictured here, who wants to cheer the birth? Just as so many reviewers are wrong when they see only negative in movies which viewers find entertaining, they are wrong en mass here to find entertainment in such an empty vessel.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
DavidJan 11, 2007
I'm really torn on this movie. The underground hype has really blossomed and I was very excited to see it. Maybe that worked against me. Perhaps if I'd gone in with mediocre expectations, I would have been pleasantly surprised. I I'm really torn on this movie. The underground hype has really blossomed and I was very excited to see it. Maybe that worked against me. Perhaps if I'd gone in with mediocre expectations, I would have been pleasantly surprised. I gave this movie a five because it does propose a plausable future in a realistic manner. But, like so may other viewers, I was left with more questions than answers. I didn't expect every question to be answered, but so many are left resolved. What is the Human Project? Why is NO ONE questioning how this girl got pregnant?!!! Arrgghhhh... Still, probably worth the admission just to say I saw it.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful
9
GeorgeR.Jan 11, 2007
At the same time that CHILDREN OF MEN
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
BruceM.Jan 11, 2007
This film is "Baghdad meets Bladerunner" and the near-term dystopia it evokes at times feels more cinema verite than science fiction. The film evokes powerful emotional resonance as it brings mankinds' two greatest impulses -- the This film is "Baghdad meets Bladerunner" and the near-term dystopia it evokes at times feels more cinema verite than science fiction. The film evokes powerful emotional resonance as it brings mankinds' two greatest impulses -- the destruction of life and the creation of life -- into startling relief.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
KatherynH.Jan 11, 2007
Grim cautionary tale of what might be in the not-too-distant future. Well-played by all. Could have used more of Moore, but overall no complaints.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JojoH.Jan 10, 2007
Wow. I highly recommend this film. I have never seen a movie with better cinematography.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
TomO.Jan 10, 2007
Reminiscent of "28 Days Later," this is "sci-fi" in that it hypothesizes a dystopian future situation, but not in incorporating many advanced technologies. In fact, everything in the brilliant, dark production design looks contemporary, Reminiscent of "28 Days Later," this is "sci-fi" in that it hypothesizes a dystopian future situation, but not in incorporating many advanced technologies. In fact, everything in the brilliant, dark production design looks contemporary, albeit seedy, dirty and worn (as in "Brazil," and "Blade Runner"). The more I see of his work, the more I admire director Alfonso Cuaron. "HP & the Prisoner of Azkaban" and "Y Tu Mama Tambien" were exemplary. His H-P title was easily the best of this multi-director franchise series. Central to the premise of Children is the dissolution of society, apparently catalyzed by a worldwide total crash in fertility. We had an interesting debate over what sort of philosophical and psychological crisis such a development would provoke, and there's no doubt it would be shattering. But we were both unsure whether the world would go crazy in a violent way. The film also implies that many individuals interpret the fertility crisis as a theological judgment, and that's highly credible. At the behavioral level, the depictions of terrorists/freedom-fighters and fascist-style Homeland Security forces are also believable. Several of the scenes seem to have been evoked by Abu Ghraib photos. The action sequences are spectacularly well done. Altogether, a thought-provoking, dark, tense film. And a splendid example of what sci-fi can do best.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
HollyR.Jan 10, 2007
Blade Runner is my all time favorite film, and while I appreciated the cinematography, special effects and gritty futuristic look of a world in ruins (Children Of Men), the significance of getting this pregnant woman/new baby to the "Human Blade Runner is my all time favorite film, and while I appreciated the cinematography, special effects and gritty futuristic look of a world in ruins (Children Of Men), the significance of getting this pregnant woman/new baby to the "Human Project" was not explained at all. This movie has nothing on BR, not even in your wildest dreams!!! Sorry. How was the Human Project going to fix the problem of infertility in the world? How was one baby going to fix it? Nothing about this was ever explained and the ending was so abrupt it was like they ran out of time. A good movie considers these questions and answers them. I don't buy the whole "it makes you think" crap. That is a total cop-out. Good movies wrap things up. These problems were so huge it totally ruined the rest of an otherwise good film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
MikeH.Jan 10, 2007
Obviously marketing for this movie deserves a TEN, but the actual content, the actual story, message, moral? ZERO... there IS NO MESSAGE TO THIS FILM. IT IS A CIPHER, it's just a rollercoaster with guns and violence, and the acting Obviously marketing for this movie deserves a TEN, but the actual content, the actual story, message, moral? ZERO... there IS NO MESSAGE TO THIS FILM. IT IS A CIPHER, it's just a rollercoaster with guns and violence, and the acting comes from being shot at and watching a woman have a baby... there's NO CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT. All bang, no substance, so why are people giving this film a TOP rating? I smell a HUGE RAT.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
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