District 9
TriStar Pictures | Release Date: August 14, 2009
8.1
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 1535 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
1,269
Mixed:
130
Negative:
136
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
DannyRSep 8, 2009
Anyone who rates this lower than a 9 knows nothing about Sci-Fi or cinema for that matter and is more likely to be all excited about big budget nonsence like transformers.Go ahead and get in line for Roland Emerich's 2012, i'll Anyone who rates this lower than a 9 knows nothing about Sci-Fi or cinema for that matter and is more likely to be all excited about big budget nonsence like transformers.Go ahead and get in line for Roland Emerich's 2012, i'll wait till it appears in the bargain bucket at my local junk shop about 6 months after its release! Rate District 9 low if you really feel the need to grab the attention of grown up movie lovers but my advise would be not to bother just get back to your online gaming.....is that your mum i hear calling?… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
ANWESHPJan 2, 2010
A movie more flawless than this one does'nt come to mind because there is'nt any. From the begining to the end the film succeds in entertaining. Everything about it is A1 from the cast's performances to the films story.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
MarkdSCJan 9, 2010
Startling on first viewing, left a big impression even if I can't quite pin down what that is! Reminds me of the feeling I had when I first saw Alien and Terminator, not necessarily great films in the traditional sense but for whatever Startling on first viewing, left a big impression even if I can't quite pin down what that is! Reminds me of the feeling I had when I first saw Alien and Terminator, not necessarily great films in the traditional sense but for whatever reason stops you in your tracks. A Marmite film, you'll love it or hate it, either way it's destined to become a cult classic.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
JohnCJan 9, 2010
Badly conceived story, although, well filmed and assembled. It was just goofy, full of conceptual holes, not well thought out. There was no believable science in the thing, they just expected you to suspend your disbelief because they were Badly conceived story, although, well filmed and assembled. It was just goofy, full of conceptual holes, not well thought out. There was no believable science in the thing, they just expected you to suspend your disbelief because they were showing this pseudo documentary. Really stupid. It has been a while since I have seen a film that brings out such diametrically opposed views. It's like a Rorschach test. I can't figure out what it is about the film that makes so many people go nuts for it. I thought it stank.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
8
MichelleH.Feb 7, 2010
Once you get past the annoying main character and the stupid looking aliens and story behind it is compelling. Ultimately this movie deals with immigration and corruption This movie is really not so far fetched if you look at how it Once you get past the annoying main character and the stupid looking aliens and story behind it is compelling. Ultimately this movie deals with immigration and corruption This movie is really not so far fetched if you look at how it illustrates how conflicting ideas and policies of government agencies and human aid agencies would deal which a similar situation.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
Josef-MarcHFeb 9, 2010
One of the best films I have ever seen. Utterly compelling. The acting was superb from everyone involved, and the script couldn't have been written any better. If this doesn't go down in history as one of the greatest films of all One of the best films I have ever seen. Utterly compelling. The acting was superb from everyone involved, and the script couldn't have been written any better. If this doesn't go down in history as one of the greatest films of all time, I will be sorely disappointed.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
T800Feb 9, 2010
This movie will make you think about yourself.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
9
JamesHMar 20, 2010
90/100. What an amazingly imaginative film, and it has a totally unique plot and you can
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
leecOct 2, 2009
I have been reading lots of reviews and need to start commenting in order to clear up some of the misunderstandings. ive read so many (usa) reviews about the "unbelievable main character" and the "fake accent" and to any south african Wikus I have been reading lots of reviews and need to start commenting in order to clear up some of the misunderstandings. ive read so many (usa) reviews about the "unbelievable main character" and the "fake accent" and to any south african Wikus is 100% typical of our own red neck those-who-never-apply for passports true blue south african. we all know lots of south africans who speak and act and (unfortunately) think exactly like wikus. there is a huge problem with nigerian violence, scams and drug trafficking in SA and the locals have been protesting about it. Our malawian gardener who comes to us once a week always gets himself robbed by nigerians when returning to the townships, we have opened a bank account for him so that doesnt carry cash anymore. Our friends in JHB had their son killed because a nigerian gang kidnapped him and asked for a ransom, which our friends paid for, and they killed him anyway. So yes, its very very appropriate to include them in the movie. The ruwandans, mocambiqueans, botswananas, malawians and all manner of neighbouring africans who have flocked into SA are corralled into the worst parts of every township and are called "aliens" locally. Racism? Well the white guys are depicted as the baddies and the black guys in MNU are the nicest humans so the racist card is not that clear. I find it amusing that people who would walk out of a movie only 20 minutes into it can write reviews and have any sort of intelligent opinion. The director clearly states that he didnt need to patronise the audience by explaining every little angle and leaves much to audience. A good movie is one that gets people thinking and talking and this movie sure does that !! I understood the brilliance of the movie when seeing it the second time and so much fell into place that I couldnt take in the first time because it was so intense. Hopefully the academy will do their due diligence and try and understand the social and criminal context, the accent and ignore some of the super ignorant reviews that have been written by folk who cant understand a movie unless it spoonfeeds and stars Will Smith !!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
PeterT.Oct 8, 2009
I cannot for the life of me understand why anyone would bother to watch more than 20 minutes of this unmitigated mind raping dross. What sheer fun it is to watch a video game, normally interactively played, unfold lazily before your very I cannot for the life of me understand why anyone would bother to watch more than 20 minutes of this unmitigated mind raping dross. What sheer fun it is to watch a video game, normally interactively played, unfold lazily before your very eyes with the same absence of storyline, acting or logical resolution to its various silly plot points. An allegory to the the human drama know as apartheid? If it was an allegory to that, you surely wouldn't want to set it in Johannesburg would you? that's like making an allegory to Nazi Germany while filming a tale set in Nazi Germany.... This kind of stupidity doesn't bother anyone anymore? Aliens who eat cat food as an allegory to drug use? Do all you ten-voters also still watch Sesame Street or something? D9 is nothing less than a completely farcical and generic action fodder hailed as the second coming of Christ featuring the most nauseating and lazy style of filming known as mockumentary with actors bereft of any professional acting skills and a script which is roughly made up on the spot with an f-bombs galore to hide the fact that the screenwriter signed off when he was told to quit being such a pain in the butt. "It's only a movie man!", or so he was told. No, no one is bothered by this. We turn off our brains as we laud the FX puppeteer for serving us yet another upgrade in CGI rendering as we cry ourselves to sleep from the joy that is living in these blissful times where real emotion is thankfully replaced by bandwagon hype and comfortable contrivances that won't occur in real life anyway. How terribly complacent it is to not have to worry about an actual sensical three act structure when you've got all this marketing budget to throw around allowing you to already cash in on the prefabricated acclaim and Pavlov conditioning of the crowds way before the movie is even actually screened. Seriously, why bother making the movie at all? Oh wait, I almost forgot, they never actually did...… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
MannyF.Aug 14, 2009
Unlike anything you've ever seen. A very original sci-fi film with top notch cgi, acting and a great script. Copley is absolutely amazing in his first film, this guy is going to be a star. Blomkamp is a visionary... this film had me Unlike anything you've ever seen. A very original sci-fi film with top notch cgi, acting and a great script. Copley is absolutely amazing in his first film, this guy is going to be a star. Blomkamp is a visionary... this film had me hooked from the first frame. A must see.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
ZacHAug 14, 2009
This movie is simply beyond perfection
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
AlexSAug 14, 2009
Everything starts out great but then becomes an action flick with no pulp. At first there are notes of apartheid and deep social suggestions, but by the end it turns into an incoherent BIONIC COMMANDO trying to save his relationship by Everything starts out great but then becomes an action flick with no pulp. At first there are notes of apartheid and deep social suggestions, but by the end it turns into an incoherent BIONIC COMMANDO trying to save his relationship by betting it all on an infantile alien. It starts out feeling smart, and ends feeling dumber than dirt. Alien racism is halfway thought through, and what is up with the ever changing accents?… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
NateHAug 14, 2009
District 9 is easily the best movie I have seen so far this year. It's story brings you in and makes you feel for these people(humans and aliens alike). The action is amazing, but never feels overdone or like it is meaningless. I should District 9 is easily the best movie I have seen so far this year. It's story brings you in and makes you feel for these people(humans and aliens alike). The action is amazing, but never feels overdone or like it is meaningless. I should note that the entire film is extremely violent and if you don't like blood you should stay away. If you like good movies that actually have a message then don't miss this one.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
9
KarlL.Aug 14, 2009
A mix of The Fly, Blackhawk Down, Children of men and Half-life 2, with a possible gravity gun reference involving a.... I wont spoil it. If I had to nitpick, I'd say that the Aliens aren't really all that alien. They are basically A mix of The Fly, Blackhawk Down, Children of men and Half-life 2, with a possible gravity gun reference involving a.... I wont spoil it. If I had to nitpick, I'd say that the Aliens aren't really all that alien. They are basically bug people who behave exactly as humans would. And the Apartheid thing doesn't last long before it goes all action, But the action is great.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
KyleD.Aug 14, 2009
I went into this movie with high hopes. I was left speechless. This movie delivers on all fronts and its worth every penny...twice. I would recommend this to all. Be warned there is quite a bit of gore so this is not for the weak stomached.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
TroyP.Aug 14, 2009
Most original sci-fi since Alien. Neill Blomkamp in his directing debut knocked this one out of the park. There is so much right with this movie, and so little wrong. It really pulls you in and ratchets up the tension so adroitly you Most original sci-fi since Alien. Neill Blomkamp in his directing debut knocked this one out of the park. There is so much right with this movie, and so little wrong. It really pulls you in and ratchets up the tension so adroitly you don't notice until you're cheering. Can't wait to see it again.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
JerryMAug 15, 2009
A well-done, fun, rational, thought-provoking, exciting movie!
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
JohnEAug 15, 2009
Very satisfying and original. I cant wait to go see it again and then go buy it on DVD.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
ChrisS.Aug 15, 2009
Purely amazing. This movie pulls you in, grabs you by the head, and smothers you in awesome. Very intelligent, very entertaining. They fleshed out the Aliens and made you feel for them, and I loved the way they ended it, this is one of the Purely amazing. This movie pulls you in, grabs you by the head, and smothers you in awesome. Very intelligent, very entertaining. They fleshed out the Aliens and made you feel for them, and I loved the way they ended it, this is one of the closest movies I would call perfect. Everyone was clapping.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
MMAug 15, 2009
How boring was this movie? Parable or not, it was only for my friends being with me that I did not walk out of it. I'm actually kind of glad I did not because it gained its two point rating at the end when something actually happened. How boring was this movie? Parable or not, it was only for my friends being with me that I did not walk out of it. I'm actually kind of glad I did not because it gained its two point rating at the end when something actually happened. Aliens getting stranded on earth is a pretty lame premise for a movie in the first place and, even though the special effects were great and the CGI truly impressive, it could not overcome that "Haven't we seen this all before?" feeling. And that feeling is hard to accept for over two and a half hours at a time.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
JeffRAug 16, 2009
Just when you think this movie is trying too hard to be a documentary Blomkamp thrusts you into an emotionally charged action film with all of the bells and whistles of a top shelf summer movie. It manages to pull the viewer into its Just when you think this movie is trying too hard to be a documentary Blomkamp thrusts you into an emotionally charged action film with all of the bells and whistles of a top shelf summer movie. It manages to pull the viewer into its make-believe world and tear at the heart and soul. Nail biting and speak out loud to youself... "oh god I hope they don't kill tha poor child, wait he's CG!!!!." incredible sci-fi movie. Genre defining. A must see!!!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
JacobTAug 16, 2009
An amazing movie, especially considering it's really low budget.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
RichardE.Aug 16, 2009
Peter Jackson does to SciFi what he did to zombie flicks with his dark humored classic Dead Alive. This film is original. Tells a good story. Has a nice whimsical at times and dry / twisted at times sense of humor. Most important part. THE Peter Jackson does to SciFi what he did to zombie flicks with his dark humored classic Dead Alive. This film is original. Tells a good story. Has a nice whimsical at times and dry / twisted at times sense of humor. Most important part. THE SPECIAL EFFECTS ARE USED TO TELL THE STORY. They rarely, if at all, get in the way or are special effects for the sake of special effects. Rising above a sea of Hollywood crap this summer this film redeemed my faith in creative narrative and filmmaking.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
AlexEAug 16, 2009
Great SCi fi movie, Great social drama, Great action movie. You cannot help but feel uneasy at the brutal realism of this movie. Wikus is a testament to the best and worst of human nature. THe lack of stars allows the focus to be on the Great SCi fi movie, Great social drama, Great action movie. You cannot help but feel uneasy at the brutal realism of this movie. Wikus is a testament to the best and worst of human nature. THe lack of stars allows the focus to be on the story. After the debacle of Transformers and Wolverine, This film is proof that real movie making still lives.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
RobVAug 16, 2009
I went into the theater with high expectations, and I was blow away. I left the theater dazed, and I'm still digesting the subtler elements of the film. Stunning, brilliant, exciting, and heartbreaking. There hasn't been an I went into the theater with high expectations, and I was blow away. I left the theater dazed, and I'm still digesting the subtler elements of the film. Stunning, brilliant, exciting, and heartbreaking. There hasn't been an American film this good since There Will Be Blood. We are going to see great, marvelous things coming from both Neill Blomkamp and Sharlto Copley!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
8
JoeyK.Aug 17, 2009
A fantastic film that is a whole lot of fun, but I don't think it was without flaws. While I found the majority of the film brilliant and exciting, I felt that the most interesting stuff came from the backstory. I would have enjoyed A fantastic film that is a whole lot of fun, but I don't think it was without flaws. While I found the majority of the film brilliant and exciting, I felt that the most interesting stuff came from the backstory. I would have enjoyed seeing more of that and less of the main human character. I enjoyed following him far less that I think I should have and found him to be despicable, only capable of becoming compassionate at the grimest of moments. Even then, I felt him completely selfish and motivated by his own desires. And his story of transformation was also less than desirable. But just about everything else in the film was fantastic. The aliens are great, both in look and in personality and dimension. The action is great and a whole lot of fun, worth the ticket price alone. And the whole set up and world created here is brilliant. While there is much to be desired, the film creates an emotional ride that is both exciting and interesting.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
4
JohnAug 17, 2009
I walked into District 9, Niell Blomkamp
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
ShukiZ.Aug 17, 2009
Perfect 10 loved every moment.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
GrantAug 17, 2009
This is by far the deepest Science Fiction film I have ever seen, the message and imagery rocked me to my core. Hopefully people who see this will look into the atrocities that have happened in South Africa so that they will never repeat This is by far the deepest Science Fiction film I have ever seen, the message and imagery rocked me to my core. Hopefully people who see this will look into the atrocities that have happened in South Africa so that they will never repeat themselves anywhere.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
ArthurAAug 18, 2009
Great movie that is NOT totally centered around science fiction. You must actually think while watching the film; that's what makes it outstanding. The special effects are an added bonus.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
MartinKAug 22, 2009
Visually impressive for the CGI. Other than that, it was silliness. If you have a brain, you'll be insulted. The script is absurd and seems like it was written by the same person that scripted the Transformers. If you're a SciFi Visually impressive for the CGI. Other than that, it was silliness. If you have a brain, you'll be insulted. The script is absurd and seems like it was written by the same person that scripted the Transformers. If you're a SciFi fan you'll be embarrassed if you want anything more intelligent. I hate to agree with Ebert, but this is nothing more than poor space soap opera with emotional manipulation and little care to actually producing anything intelligent. I got the point of the movie. It's been done a million times and much better and without a need for an excuse to focus on apartheid, which didn't even make sense. It makes me realize that movies have deterioriated into such unoriginal trash that throw any new CGI trick in front of them and they'll scream how awesome it is.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
TimPAug 26, 2009
Was I watching the same movie as some of these critics? Not a very good movie, if you must see at all please wait for the dvd rental.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
TechHeadSep 19, 2009
This is one of the most overrated movies I have ever seen. We were on the verge of walking out, but figured we have to recoup as much of our $9.00 per seat admission as we could. The acting and the special effects were the only thing good This is one of the most overrated movies I have ever seen. We were on the verge of walking out, but figured we have to recoup as much of our $9.00 per seat admission as we could. The acting and the special effects were the only thing good about this flick. The story line was weak and cliche - your typical "fill in the blanks here" story telling. In its effort to teach a social message, it comes off borderline racists and a bit preachy if you ask me. Spare yourself. Wait for the video.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
steveSep 3, 2009
Best part of this movie was its marketing campaign. The rest is Hollywood at its dumbest.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
SeanJ.Sep 5, 2009
From the opening 5 minutes it promises lots, but the subsequent 1hr 45mins fails to deliver on them. The direction, unfortunately, falls heavily towards the Hollywood action movie style even though it clearly has pretenses about being a more From the opening 5 minutes it promises lots, but the subsequent 1hr 45mins fails to deliver on them. The direction, unfortunately, falls heavily towards the Hollywood action movie style even though it clearly has pretenses about being a more cerebral, thought provoking affair.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
EricAFeb 11, 2010
This movie was extremely disappointing, the plot was so dumn and unbelievable. I love sci-fi movies but, this one dropped the ball big time.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
FrankHDec 16, 2009
Calling this a science fiction movie is stupid in the extreme. If it's supposed to be a comment on the United Nations treatment of refugees in their refugee camps, then I like it, but it lacks all which makes a movie spectacular. It has Calling this a science fiction movie is stupid in the extreme. If it's supposed to be a comment on the United Nations treatment of refugees in their refugee camps, then I like it, but it lacks all which makes a movie spectacular. It has no humour, no soul, and depicts realistic looking ailiens with unrealistic low IQ. if this is a good one in all elses' eyes then it is proof that the genre is dying. good sci fi makes one want to see more, this movie made me feel angry that I wasted money on the Blue-Ray. The special effects was amazing though.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
LauraSDec 30, 2009
It was the worst movie i've ever seen. I dont see how anyone could like such a horrible movie.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
DrewKAug 15, 2009
This movie was terrible. Going in with high expectations, I was utterly disappointed. I understand this movie is a statement about our society but I can't think of a single scene I truly enjoyed. It's beyond me why critics and This movie was terrible. Going in with high expectations, I was utterly disappointed. I understand this movie is a statement about our society but I can't think of a single scene I truly enjoyed. It's beyond me why critics and users are giving this movie such good reviews. The exposition was incredibly boring and took far too long. The amount of gore was completely unnecessary. If you enjoy watching people get their heads literally blown into a thousand bloody pieces over and over again I guess this is your type of movie. Add in an incredibly predictable story and you've got District 9. In fact the only positive I could find would be the CGI. The aliens look completely believable and their technology is very interesting to look at. Still, this was by far the worst movie I have seen this year.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
RichardAug 15, 2009
I was stunned at what I saw after seeing the rating. The movie made an effort to draw on the hypocrisy of how society deals with minority or marginalized groups; however, there was no emotional ties to the main character. It really eroded I was stunned at what I saw after seeing the rating. The movie made an effort to draw on the hypocrisy of how society deals with minority or marginalized groups; however, there was no emotional ties to the main character. It really eroded into a buddy/alien action flick towards the end. Avoid it if possible.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
BillRAug 17, 2009
This is a dramamine movie. Anyone who gets motion sickness beware because the hand held camera technique will carry you through maybe twenty minutes of the movie before you have to head for the door. For the short length of time I could This is a dramamine movie. Anyone who gets motion sickness beware because the hand held camera technique will carry you through maybe twenty minutes of the movie before you have to head for the door. For the short length of time I could stand the show I enjoyed it but the cinematagraphy was nauseating. Beware if you get motion sickness.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
AmberDAug 21, 2009
I've seen more storyline, character development, action, and suspense with Transformers franchise and Starship Troopers trilogy than with this movie. District 9 combines those two movies in a slapped-together mishmash. After the I've seen more storyline, character development, action, and suspense with Transformers franchise and Starship Troopers trilogy than with this movie. District 9 combines those two movies in a slapped-together mishmash. After the evictions, it's practically a free'for'all. A lot of the gore was unnecessary, as it could have been implied, not an in-your-face, blood-spattered camera shots. I know it's just a movie, but some of the action, like blowing up a human, the pieces will be cooked, not bloody, scientifically/biologically speaking. The heat and force of the alien weapons would make it so. All in all, it was a slapped together, mishmash with obvious homage to Starship Troopers and very little or none at all morals or ethics which would have made the movie greater in character development. I watched it once, wanted to walk out halway through, but I watched it to the end. Won't do that again.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
MikeWAug 21, 2009
Its seems different at first look, but underneath it, it is no where to the level of though to compare to matrix , terminator, alien all of which it derives elements of its idea. I am not sure i see it having vision as much as a montage of Its seems different at first look, but underneath it, it is no where to the level of though to compare to matrix , terminator, alien all of which it derives elements of its idea. I am not sure i see it having vision as much as a montage of ideas thought as cool. But in fair it served its point and was fun to watch.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
TimothyMAug 21, 2009
Unique idea, very bad acting. It couldn't end soon enough.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
KevinAAug 24, 2009
I wanted to love this movie, but in the end was just bored. I could not get over the gaping plot holes, the lazy plot devices (switching back and forth between documentary and film), etc. I could see how someone could buy into the premise; I wanted to love this movie, but in the end was just bored. I could not get over the gaping plot holes, the lazy plot devices (switching back and forth between documentary and film), etc. I could see how someone could buy into the premise; unfortunately I just wasn't one of those people. Massively disappointing. And Harvey, I hate Michael Bay films, so where does that put me?… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
RockyS.Sep 2, 2009
Stupid and slow.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
4
jonathansSep 28, 2009
The most annoying lead actor ever!...cant you guys come up with an alien that does not look like your typical predator looking creature....come on use some imagination! also im tired of the evil african drug lord bad guy...seems like there The most annoying lead actor ever!...cant you guys come up with an alien that does not look like your typical predator looking creature....come on use some imagination! also im tired of the evil african drug lord bad guy...seems like there is one in every movie these days. how could that gorgeous woman marry that annoying guy anyways...and was i supposed to feel sad or have any emotional reaction at all at the end where the annoying guy finally turns into the alien and makes her a flower out of metal or whatever it was...point is i did not care at that point...movie is cliched...and i wanted to see the lead guy get his butt kicked in anyway. i just get baffled sometimes when i see a movie like this and consider all the money that must have been wasted including my 8 dollars!… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
SteveG.Sep 3, 2009
Not so good, predictable and slow. Nice special effects.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
NerijusD.Sep 4, 2009
Transformers-like action with all its cliches and ugliness, an incredibly stupid plot and a LOT more other bad things.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
TedSep 7, 2009
This movie could have been the best film of 2009, but the writers ruined it by putting in corny dialogue and music.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
BarbaraMJan 15, 2010
Rented this garbage! Couldn't wait to return it. Most inane,boring movie I've seen in years.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
%PlayFeb 25, 2010
The good: special effects are top quality throughout. The bad: logic is no where to found - plot and character inconsistencies abound. Example: The aliens are bigger, much smarter, much more technologically advanced than the humans AND they The good: special effects are top quality throughout. The bad: logic is no where to found - plot and character inconsistencies abound. Example: The aliens are bigger, much smarter, much more technologically advanced than the humans AND they have access to their own advanced weaponry. The writers of this movie would have you believe that the aliens are forced to live in a concentration camp, and are trading in their weapons so they can satisfy their addiction to cat food rather than killing every last human being on earth which they could easily do. Stupid, stupid movie.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
JaneBDec 25, 2009
I found this movie to be racially offensive towards the jewish, negros, and indians and highly gorey. It's a clear rip off of any holocoust movie I've ever seen, just with aliens thrown in. Think about it, they live the ghettos (or I found this movie to be racially offensive towards the jewish, negros, and indians and highly gorey. It's a clear rip off of any holocoust movie I've ever seen, just with aliens thrown in. Think about it, they live the ghettos (or slums), are numbered and are about to sent to a camp (a concentration camp). All in all the movie is a straight forward story line with no twist and an extremely dark and open ending. It was outrageously stupid, I am ashamed to give it even a 3.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
4
NomadBDec 29, 2009
Really? 81? I'd give this a 4. The character is plainly stupid in this movie. It's like watching a horror film where a girl gets trapped in a house and what does she do? she hides under the bed. Enough with this garbage. 4 for the Really? 81? I'd give this a 4. The character is plainly stupid in this movie. It's like watching a horror film where a girl gets trapped in a house and what does she do? she hides under the bed. Enough with this garbage. 4 for the idea of making district 9 and 0 for everything else.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
MonteBDec 31, 2009
Awful. Filmed on a home video camera.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
DWillyAug 16, 2009
It is an misleading outrage that this dirty little turd of a movie would rate so high a score; and dilute the market for the great subject of alien/human contact. A badly acted, ugly (brimming with the Peter Jackson bent for unpleasant goo), It is an misleading outrage that this dirty little turd of a movie would rate so high a score; and dilute the market for the great subject of alien/human contact. A badly acted, ugly (brimming with the Peter Jackson bent for unpleasant goo), nonsensical bore. You know, I don't even feel like wasting anymore of my time thinking about this movie, I just wanted to warn you.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
JonathanCAug 18, 2009
I thought this was the worst movie since Lesbian Vampire Killers. The action scenes were entertaining and the social commentary well played out but it tried to be funny and wasn't really, and nothing really happened. We all thought it was crap.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
0
JayBAug 18, 2009
Peter Jackson went out on a limb...and the limb broke The critics are on crack. Most mentally insane movie I've ever seen in my life, and not in that artsy sundance sort of way.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
3
ChristianPAug 21, 2009
Great premise. But the promise of a sci-fi Apartheid allegory remains unfulfilled. The film opens interestingly enough, but soon turns into hacky sci-fi/Hollywood explosion/gore fest. Some odd half-plot emerges...but it seems tacked on when Great premise. But the promise of a sci-fi Apartheid allegory remains unfulfilled. The film opens interestingly enough, but soon turns into hacky sci-fi/Hollywood explosion/gore fest. Some odd half-plot emerges...but it seems tacked on when the writers couldn't figure out how to take a good idea and make a story of it...I don't understand what everyone loved about it.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
1
ChrisAug 26, 2009
Was hoping it would turn out great, got sucked up by all the hype. Was disappointed by all of the mish mash of different sci fi flavors. Seriously was it a faux docudrama? or did they forget half way through... action was pretty decent andWas hoping it would turn out great, got sucked up by all the hype. Was disappointed by all of the mish mash of different sci fi flavors. Seriously was it a faux docudrama? or did they forget half way through... action was pretty decent and had 2 funny scenes, but it was all over the place and didnt know what it wanted to be. Plus seriously were they paid by how many times they uttered the "F word"… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful
0
VorlargenMar 15, 2012
This movie is so bad I couldn't finish it. If I want to watch raw news footage I can go to YouTube.
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
All this user's reviews
2
LucaSegafredoSep 29, 2009
This film is crap. The worst First Person Shooter has a better plot than this one. What you learn is that white South Africans are bad but Nigerians are the dregs of humanity.
Despite what a lot of people think there is not a single newThis film is crap. The worst First Person Shooter has a better plot than this one. What you learn is that white South Africans are bad but Nigerians are the dregs of humanity.
Despite what a lot of people think there is not a single new idea in this messed up movie.
Good intentions and good actors are not enough to make a movie. You need writers.… Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful
10
TomG.Aug 14, 2009
Seriously the best movie since The Dark Knight. My interest was never lost from start to finish. Pulls on the strings of your heart.
1 of 3 users found this helpful
6
DougWAug 20, 2009
OK people, you're really getting a bit crazy here. This movie was OK, as a comic-book plot turned into a movie, but it was not, repeat NOT, high-quality sci-fi. There were plot holes you could drive a mother-ship through in this thing, OK people, you're really getting a bit crazy here. This movie was OK, as a comic-book plot turned into a movie, but it was not, repeat NOT, high-quality sci-fi. There were plot holes you could drive a mother-ship through in this thing, from what energy source keeps the ship hovering over Johannesburg for 20 years (and why can't THAT energy be used to launch the ship??) to exactly how likely is it that superpowers like the US, China and Russia would leave little old South Africa alone to handle these aliens, who, oh by the way, might be carrying viruses and/or technology that could wipe out mankind. Sounds logical to me! Anyway, you have to think of the movie as an intelligent comic book plot. It had good cinematics, decent effects, nice acting and a fairly well-executed (if overdone) morale to the story. The development of the main character from a beurocrat who treats the aliens like lower life forms (the egg-burning scene is particularly nasty) to....well, I don't want to give anything away, but let's just say his perspective changes pretty dramatically.... Anyway, its a good movie, better than the Transformers/G.I.Joe junk we've been fed lately, but it's certainly not as good as the next level up (Matrix/Star Wars/Blade Runner), and even those aren't really, really great sci-fi....Here's hoping someone out there has the brains to produce Lord of Light....now THERE's a sci-fi story.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
LoriSFeb 21, 2010
The New York Post's review was spot on! "The movie falls into the same uneasy category as "Eight Legged Freaks": too tongue-in-cheek to be thrilling, not funny enough to be a comedy."
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
RyanSOct 16, 2009
THIS MOVIE FAILS... HARD!
1 of 3 users found this helpful
3
BruceXOct 4, 2009
Special effects good, but story trite and relied on implausible premise that all aliens needed to be moved from one place to another and hostility was grossly underestimated. More interesting story would have been how the situation requiring Special effects good, but story trite and relied on implausible premise that all aliens needed to be moved from one place to another and hostility was grossly underestimated. More interesting story would have been how the situation requiring move arose in the first place. I just didn't buy it.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
3
GregTAug 17, 2009
I'm amazed this film gets as many high rating as it does. The simple things is what it lacks. #1 A story. There was no discernible plot for an hour and half... Then by the time a story surfaced, it was over. I'd say it was the I'm amazed this film gets as many high rating as it does. The simple things is what it lacks. #1 A story. There was no discernible plot for an hour and half... Then by the time a story surfaced, it was over. I'd say it was the longest trailer I'd ever seen... Can't wait for D-9 part 2. With all the loose ends, and only costing 30m to make, there is really no way around a sequel. Sad.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
SusanLJun 3, 2010
Only Pot Heads would say that they liked this movie! Sad to say, my boyfriend enjoyed this movie. His name is Simon Brooks & yes he's a Pot Head!
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
BillTAug 14, 2009
This movie is a slap-dash bunch of action sequencies genetically merged with political allegory. Don't see it. 0 out of 10.
1 of 3 users found this helpful
5
CanonYSep 17, 2009
Not my cup of tea at all. I was expecting a suspenseful sci-fi, but instead got what felt like a low budget film, on par with Dr Who or Torchwood. Just didn't feel it. OK for tv, but not great to sit and watch for 2 hours + in the Not my cup of tea at all. I was expecting a suspenseful sci-fi, but instead got what felt like a low budget film, on par with Dr Who or Torchwood. Just didn't feel it. OK for tv, but not great to sit and watch for 2 hours + in the cinema. The documentary style camera knocking around didn't appeal to me either.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
3
RobinLSep 26, 2009
Had some funny parts and some interesting parts, but overall the movie was a gore-fest that just wasn't necessary.
1 of 3 users found this helpful
1
CarolynNAug 14, 2009
No redeeming value. I have a headache.
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
BigBullyMar 1, 2010
Finally overtook Missouri Breaks as the worst movie in the past 100 years.
1 of 4 users found this helpful
3
MiKEAug 14, 2009
While watching District 9 it reminded me of other movies, the shakey carmera work from transformers , The aliens were a rip out of Half Life 2. The idea was an intresting one, but then it turned into a typical chase movie. A bluray rental While watching District 9 it reminded me of other movies, the shakey carmera work from transformers , The aliens were a rip out of Half Life 2. The idea was an intresting one, but then it turned into a typical chase movie. A bluray rental nothing more.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful
2
thesantanafanSep 5, 2010
I won't lie, I was expecting a great movie when I went to see this. It was terrible. The thing is, it's easy to trick americans into liking a movie with an original premise and neat special effects, not to mention the documentary filmingI won't lie, I was expecting a great movie when I went to see this. It was terrible. The thing is, it's easy to trick americans into liking a movie with an original premise and neat special effects, not to mention the documentary filming style which made viewers feel intelligent. This movie is like the product of an intelligent person writing down a good idea, and giving it to mentally challenged filmmakers. Everyone seems to overlooked the annoying flaws of this movie: The behavior, the dialogue, the use of the line "I'm not leaving without you" and various other cliches that you wouldn't expect to find in such an "original" film. There were dozens of moments of annoying stupidity that I kept trying to ignore. And there is no real excuse for all the discomfort in the movie. I usually forgive films for being stupid because they are still enjoyable. This movie had little to enjoy (except for when the robot shoots a man with a dead pig, I got a good laugh out of that) . Just the fact that it was original, the fact that it had allegories to apartheid and racism, and the fact that it was filmed like a documentary seems to have everybody won over. But I can't forgive all the stupid dialogue and behavior. I could just see through every silly second. For example; the love for cat food = Random aspect that makes the aliens seem more real. There was a lot of cheap little ways they tried to make the aliens seem more real. But right from the beginning, I couldn't help but see through them, and if I was less observant and more gullible I probably would have enjoyed the movie. I could write a book about all the things wrong with this movie, but I should not write so much in a movie review. I just can't be concise with this subject. I just want to end with this fact: I walked into that theater expecting a great movie. As the movie went on, I was struggling to convince myself that I was watching a great movie. I couldn't do it. Later I went to see Avatar, expecting a bad movie. I thoroughly enjoyed it, because it was honest and it's silliness was forgivable. James Cameron understands that its more important for a film to be enjoyable then it is for it to make a statement by being different.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
All this user's reviews
0
BobG.Jun 6, 2010
Awful, irritating, gratuitous garbage. I'm so very tired of cinematic comic books that feel like they were scripted by precocious 11yr.olds Best/Worst line: ( in the lab after the break in) " Look for something that might hold a vial!"
2 of 11 users found this helpful
3
GoldenEye16Aug 22, 2010
This movie was too freakin weird and disturbing as hell. Too much swearing as well. Every other word was the f-word. I don't understand how you can enjoy this movie
1 of 9 users found this helpful18
All this user's reviews
6
AJLAug 20, 2009
Amazing idea gone awry when interesting plot is not well explained and just background to what is really an action film with cheesy acting.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
AnonymousMCSep 12, 2009
Take the F word out and the dialogue is cut by 50%. Entertaining, slightly. But why do most new film concepts need to be part 1 of X? Peter Jackson couldn't help himself I suppose. The wait for the sequel ending is such crap. Ooh,Take the F word out and the dialogue is cut by 50%. Entertaining, slightly. But why do most new film concepts need to be part 1 of X? Peter Jackson couldn't help himself I suppose. The wait for the sequel ending is such crap. Ooh, ooh what is going to happen next?… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
JCTamSep 4, 2009
I can guarantee that this movie is more boring than Independence Day. At least no sci-fi movie dealing with aliens is better than Independence day. More drama, less action, mediocre suspense. Period.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
adamFeb 8, 2010
D9 is a good film a bit hard to follow in bits and really strange overall o good film worth watching The acting is good the plot is ok, the effects are really good. I like the film it
0 of 2 users found this helpful
5
AdamNAug 15, 2009
At times entertaining, but mostly disjointed with a poor narrative and absolutely baffling plot holes. I was left wondering so often if both parties want the same resolution why is there a conflict in the first place? If you're looking At times entertaining, but mostly disjointed with a poor narrative and absolutely baffling plot holes. I was left wondering so often if both parties want the same resolution why is there a conflict in the first place? If you're looking for an alien film, look elsewhere as they're more of a medium through which the author comments on human nature than anything else.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ScottRAug 24, 2009
I'm hoping that as this film gets a wider release the ratings provided by critics who prioritise the accuracy of a film's allegorical social commentary over it's entertainment value, will be reduced to insignificance, and I'm hoping that as this film gets a wider release the ratings provided by critics who prioritise the accuracy of a film's allegorical social commentary over it's entertainment value, will be reduced to insignificance, and District 9 will receive the MetaCritic score it deserves.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
JoshCSep 20, 2009
FYI- Don't take your wife or girlfriend to this movie. Mine said it was the worst she had ever seen. I took a chance on this movie given all the rave reviews. However, I myself thought it was mediocre at best. How could the Washington FYI- Don't take your wife or girlfriend to this movie. Mine said it was the worst she had ever seen. I took a chance on this movie given all the rave reviews. However, I myself thought it was mediocre at best. How could the Washington Post give this movie a 100%!!??? The target audience seemed to be the teenagers around me laughing at all the fake special effects. Many elements of the movie also made no sense logically. One problem was too many thinly veiled references to different ethnic groups that have been persecuted over the years (blacks, immigrants, Jews, etc.). It was as if the aliens were experiencing all these forms of persecution at the same time, regardless of any chronological or historical context. All in all, the movie was not very well made. Also, the second half of the movie conformed to conventional themes and cliches.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
rhAug 24, 2009
The best Mech battle I've seen so realistic .Its sci fi set in the present day very hard and gritty. Excellent story.People think its from Australia but its actually south African and is a reflection of the apartheid era told with The best Mech battle I've seen so realistic .Its sci fi set in the present day very hard and gritty. Excellent story.People think its from Australia but its actually south African and is a reflection of the apartheid era told with aliens but everyone one knows it was based on racism in the past.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
KennyNov 4, 2009
One to see this draft Blair Witch with aliens, you may think many things, you may think that the creators have done the head and even that is something imbeciles. But it can also be amazed by the way you have put a science fiction film under One to see this draft Blair Witch with aliens, you may think many things, you may think that the creators have done the head and even that is something imbeciles. But it can also be amazed by the way you have put a science fiction film under his belt, so well built with little budget. Sometimes bordering on genius but in the second half of the movie is when they are going completely in the hands and puts us in an action movie American heroics and ending by charging a very interesting project. We must also take into account the gaps in the script are endless. "D-9" is an experience in the film world, it falls well below their potential in the Hollywood factor comes into play.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JoeAlAug 23, 2009
Worst Sci-Fi movie I have ever seen!! First time ever I walked out of a movie... From alien rights to alien relocation... Damn liberals ruined what could have been a good thing.
0 of 14 users found this helpful
0
BarryLAug 23, 2009
Arguably the single worst move ever made in the history if cinema. Awful, and awful from any angle. There wasn't one likeable character in this piece of crap. Not one. DO NOT pay to see this, not even out of curiousity. It is dreadful, Arguably the single worst move ever made in the history if cinema. Awful, and awful from any angle. There wasn't one likeable character in this piece of crap. Not one. DO NOT pay to see this, not even out of curiousity. It is dreadful, simply dreadful. Oh my gawd... soo, soo bad. It defies belief. The only good thing that could be said about it is that it ended. But even that wasn't soon enough.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
DEEAug 24, 2009
Had some great effects. Great premise. Carboadr, two-dimensional villain. It's screenwriting 101--if you make a villain this 100% evil it is never interesting. Oooo, bad military; oooo evil bad guy. C'mon--what BS. The hero was Had some great effects. Great premise. Carboadr, two-dimensional villain. It's screenwriting 101--if you make a villain this 100% evil it is never interesting. Oooo, bad military; oooo evil bad guy. C'mon--what BS. The hero was woefully miscast and it was a frighteningly inconsistent performance. The actor who played his wife gave a truly awful performance. The aliens were strong and weak to suit plot-points. For me, District 9 was every bit the student film. And there's nothing worse than inexperience ruining a great premise. I was very disappointed.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
RayBAug 24, 2009
I like si-fi but this is just BAD. Just a suckie movie like others just walked/run out.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
KTAug 25, 2009
Great concept. Irritating character. Ridiculous story.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
LarryLAug 25, 2009
STUPID movie. A total waste of 2 hours.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
Billc.Aug 27, 2009
I went to see this movie only because of the high praise I read here at the meta-critic site. I thought it was very close to awful. It felt like a polished made for T.V. movie of the week. I found myself not caring about the plot or the I went to see this movie only because of the high praise I read here at the meta-critic site. I thought it was very close to awful. It felt like a polished made for T.V. movie of the week. I found myself not caring about the plot or the actors. I just kept thinking should I get out now? I stayed to the end.It never got any better.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
GeorgeMDec 18, 2009
Weird and dumb!!!
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
larsDec 21, 2009
Way overrated! Could have been so much better! Great special effects!!!
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
Bullet97Dec 11, 2010
Simply put, this movie is astounding. It provides an original sci-fi story, the acting is superb, the script is well written, the effects are fantastic for the budget they had, the action is heart-pumping, there's some great emotion, and evenSimply put, this movie is astounding. It provides an original sci-fi story, the acting is superb, the script is well written, the effects are fantastic for the budget they had, the action is heart-pumping, there's some great emotion, and even some funny jokes. Overall, District 9 is a great sci fi movie that will go down in movie history as one of the best scifi movies ever.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
0
IstvanMSep 26, 2010
I'm a BIG sci-fi fan. I can watch a sci-fi movie, does not matter how bad it is. But this is the first one, I wasn't able to watch it trough. I would say that it is far the worst movie I've ever seen, but this is not even a movie, it's a 2I'm a BIG sci-fi fan. I can watch a sci-fi movie, does not matter how bad it is. But this is the first one, I wasn't able to watch it trough. I would say that it is far the worst movie I've ever seen, but this is not even a movie, it's a 2 hours crap...terrible… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
All this user's reviews
0
NazguleroMar 26, 2011
My expectation before watching this movie was: if Peter Jackson is the director, it will suck. I was confirmed. I stopped caring after 180 seconds when the aliens were shown for the first time. These must be the most ridiculous aliens in filmMy expectation before watching this movie was: if Peter Jackson is the director, it will suck. I was confirmed. I stopped caring after 180 seconds when the aliens were shown for the first time. These must be the most ridiculous aliens in film history. The pseudo-documentary style is horribly nauseating. There is not a single scene in this movie that looks professional, it is overly clear that the actors are...acting. It has the feel of a home video made by a child.
As a critic, how can you take yourself and your profession serious if you give this crap a good review ? It is just laughable. Why did Peter Jackson decide to make movies ? What do his movies add to this world, except for pissing people off because they are so incredibly bad ?… Expand
0 of 10 users found this helpful010
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