Midnight Special
Warner Bros. | Release Date: March 18, 2016
6.8
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 257 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
162
Mixed:
66
Negative:
29
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9
LamontRaymondMar 19, 2016
An excellent film. I'm a Jeff Nichols fan - loved Take Shelter and MUD in particular - so I wasn't surprised to have enjoyed this one. I appreciate that he doesn't dwell on exposition and just throws you into a partially evolved story.An excellent film. I'm a Jeff Nichols fan - loved Take Shelter and MUD in particular - so I wasn't surprised to have enjoyed this one. I appreciate that he doesn't dwell on exposition and just throws you into a partially evolved story. Joel Edgerton is terrific in this film, as is Adam Driver - neither of whom did I realize were in it. But the actor who plays the boy - who was in St. Vincent - is amazing.… Expand
10 of 10 users found this helpful100
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8
Rebecca31Mar 22, 2016
Starring the wonderfully angry Michael Shannon, and his son who go on the run after they discover he possesses special powers. Also featuring, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst and Kylo Ren. This one is very unique, keeps you guessing and overallStarring the wonderfully angry Michael Shannon, and his son who go on the run after they discover he possesses special powers. Also featuring, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst and Kylo Ren. This one is very unique, keeps you guessing and overall enjoyable. Can't say anything more, just go and see this one. Highly recommended.… Expand
5 of 5 users found this helpful50
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7
csw12Apr 25, 2016
Jeff Nichols does an excellent job and grabbing you at the beginning and then slowly reeling you in to his story. Its refreshing to see a film with some originality to it and Midnight Special accomplishes that even if it doesn't fullyJeff Nichols does an excellent job and grabbing you at the beginning and then slowly reeling you in to his story. Its refreshing to see a film with some originality to it and Midnight Special accomplishes that even if it doesn't fully explain itself at the end.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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8
nutterjrDec 30, 2016
This is one of those films where you come out of the cinema feeling elated and want to get everyone you know to watch it, yet you are lost for words on how to describe it and possibly wondering whether their take of this film will be asThis is one of those films where you come out of the cinema feeling elated and want to get everyone you know to watch it, yet you are lost for words on how to describe it and possibly wondering whether their take of this film will be as rewarding to them as it was to you. Because in reality this film is merely but an emotional journey and whether what happens on the screen makes sense or not is not really important. And you cannot really even pinpoint the genre: is it a film about parenthood, or about a getaway, or maybe perhaps about a religion and the need to believe, or even is it simply a science fiction thriller? Whatever it is Mike Nichols delivers once again a thoroughly enjoyable film with an amazing cast including Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Adam Driver, Sam Shepard and of course the young Jaeden Lieberher.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
BrianMcCriticJun 26, 2016
A well made, well acted film that while slow at times keeps you interested throughout. As the case with Jeff Nichols films they are paced very methodically which you either embrace or you don't I'm more in the former than the latter. B+
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
smodcastMay 5, 2016
What shine's with this movie is Jeff Nichols directing. His writing, not so much. The story is sparse, gleans intentionally on elements that could be so much more. The characters work, simply because they do except kirsten dunst. Her roleWhat shine's with this movie is Jeff Nichols directing. His writing, not so much. The story is sparse, gleans intentionally on elements that could be so much more. The characters work, simply because they do except kirsten dunst. Her role could have been completely ignored and nothing would be lost here. The finale comes short. This is worth a watch though.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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8
Muskrat147Jul 23, 2016
Featuring stand-out performances, impressive direction, and a stellar story-line, Midnight Special is an emotional and original Sci-Fi thriller, even with its loose ends.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
CarFan1999Aug 12, 2016
Midnight Special is a good old- school science fiction movie. The acting is superb from all the people involved, not to mention the great special effects. The most unique thing about this though is the way the story is told. The film startsMidnight Special is a good old- school science fiction movie. The acting is superb from all the people involved, not to mention the great special effects. The most unique thing about this though is the way the story is told. The film starts right during the action and we the audience only see a dad running away with his son, who has unexplained supernatural powers. The government and a religious Texas ranch are after the boy for reasons we don't know. But the story ingeniously reveals what's going on, the backstory, and the plot in teaspoon fulls. More information is told as the film goes on. This way, the audience gets engrossed into the story as things are revealed to them along the way and the conclusion becomes unpredictable. There's just an original feel to all of this with good action and suspense. However, once the ending does come up, this original story cops out to an E.T.- esque ending in which many questions are left simply unanswered and unexplained. While details are revealed during the story, not enough of them are given. In addition, the pacing is too slow in certain areas, thus cutting down the tension. Overall though, this mostly different and original sci- fi film mostly succeeds.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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8
TVJerryApr 11, 2016
A father (Michael Shannon) is on the run from a religious cult and the FBI with his young son, who has special powers. There's a constant sense of ominous portent, potential danger and unknown consequences. And the final payoff is prettyA father (Michael Shannon) is on the run from a religious cult and the FBI with his young son, who has special powers. There's a constant sense of ominous portent, potential danger and unknown consequences. And the final payoff is pretty cool. The cast does a good job of taking matters seriously and the special effects are simple, yet convincing. This is a low-budget sci-fi thriller than poses more questions than it answers. Still, there's enough mystery and tension to make for a compelling experience. Not really sure why the title (based on the song) is relevant.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
TyranianNov 10, 2019
Pretty cool science-fiction film that is well-directed and pretty well-written with good acting, visuals and music also.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
imthenoobAug 10, 2016
Truly well acted by the whole cast and original enough to keep you interested until the end. You have the cult chasing after the boy they view as a prophet, The government who views him as a weapon and then you have the father who simplyTruly well acted by the whole cast and original enough to keep you interested until the end. You have the cult chasing after the boy they view as a prophet, The government who views him as a weapon and then you have the father who simply wants to protect his son from all this madness around him. It's definitely a love-hate movie but I really enjoyed it.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
SpangleAug 4, 2016
Midnight Special is a wonderfully unique and adventurous film. The acting across the board is very good, but the real star here are the technical elements. The special effects are terrific, especially in a scene where we see the boy with hisMidnight Special is a wonderfully unique and adventurous film. The acting across the board is very good, but the real star here are the technical elements. The special effects are terrific, especially in a scene where we see the boy with his eyes and the light coursing through his veins. The ending sequence also features terrific special effects and give the film a feeling along the lines of Spielberg's 70s and 80s science fiction classics due to the sense of wonder it inspires. The sense of mystery is highlighted by the film's synth-like score that really threatens to steal the show at times. Its low notes put you right on the edge and add this air of mystery that leaves you guessing until the very end. The lighting and cinematography are also top-notch, especially with the film largely taking place at night. It is always hard to shoot at night, but Midnight Special makes it look easy and, even better, the lighting lets you see everything, yet keep enough shrouded in darkness to make it both visually pleasing and mysterious. This film has a lot going on, is quite slow, and does not have a pay-off many will appreciate. However, I certainly did appreciate these elements. The slow pacing never arose as an issue because enough is going on to really keep you hooked and zoned in on what is going on in the film. Additionally, the ending is perfect simply because the proceeding 1 hour and 40 minutes were so mysterious. A mysterious ending is the only way to end this one as the characters never showed any level of understanding as to what was happening to the boy. Thus, it only makes sense that they remain in the dark along with us and get looked at as if they are crazy. Overall, Midnight Special is a special film that is wholly unique and highlights that Jeff Nichols is one of the best directors working today.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
NickLikesMoviesApr 24, 2016
Mysteriously fascinating and totally riveting from start to finish, but not without fault. Takes a few missteps here and there, but is overall very satisfying. Writer/director Jeff Nichols does a fantastic job building an increasinglyMysteriously fascinating and totally riveting from start to finish, but not without fault. Takes a few missteps here and there, but is overall very satisfying. Writer/director Jeff Nichols does a fantastic job building an increasingly suspenseful tone and keeping things interesting while being a slow burn. The performances are top notch, specifically Adam Driver and Kirsten Dunst, and they all play completely developed and engaging characters. I was thoroughly impressed by the visually striking, well-acted, thought-provoking Midnight Special.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
LeZeeSep 1, 2016
A secret road adventure during the dark hours!

So the Jeff Nichols and Micahel Shannon saga continues. This is theirs 4th film together in the last nine years and all of them were well accepted. Now they are into sci-fi for this, which isA secret road adventure during the dark hours!

So the Jeff Nichols and Micahel Shannon saga continues. This is theirs 4th film together in the last nine years and all of them were well accepted. Now they are into sci-fi for this, which is kind of a road movie that resembles hundreds of other films. Only thematically, but in parts it looks different, especially for being too realistic as what the director is famous for. Finally, something is not a comedy or a full of CGI, yet still it is a wonderful sci-fi-drama with some thrill moments.

It opened like the midway of the story. We obviously have to wait for a proper explanation to know what's going on, who is the child and where they're taking him. So it all begins with two armed men driving a young kid on the dark hours. Only we know is that they are protecting the boy from the government people, but the film took some time to give a clear picture of the condition. In the meantime, I started my prediction game, but I expected the film to clarify how it all began. It never cared about that part, only moved forward and that's how we're going to get some answers where a few might feel its a let down.

The negative of the film is you won't fully understand it, but it is not an incomplete story, just designed that way that leaves for the viewer to add their own perspectives to where the writer left blank spaces. Like I said the people are comparing it with the similar films and I did not care about that, but I disappointed with the conclusion. It was neatly folded, I actually liked it, but it was not fresh, especially it totally mirrors 'Tomorrowland'. Now I know why Warner Bros moved it from last year to this year's release.

It might be a coincident because the director who is also the writer has a good reputation, so I believe it is definitely not a steal, just a common creative that we've already seen many films like that. Overall, this film is worth, but might not satisfy the Jeff Nichols fans, because like I said plenty of times before in my reviews, now it the sci-fi era and every filmmaker and film-star want to board on that plane. So it did not spare Jeff Nichols as well.

7/10… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Brent_MarchantApr 2, 2016
Now this is what sci-fi should be -- a gripping, smartly written adventure that hooks you early and keeps you riveted all the way through. The film's climax is, admittedly, slightly stretched out, but that's a small price to pay forNow this is what sci-fi should be -- a gripping, smartly written adventure that hooks you early and keeps you riveted all the way through. The film's climax is, admittedly, slightly stretched out, but that's a small price to pay for everything else this well-crafted release has to offer. If you like a hefty dose of intelligence and sophistication with your science fiction, don't miss this one.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
tvnewsguidoApr 24, 2016
It's like a really good episode of the X-Files.

Midnight Special owes a lot of its plot to Starman (1984) and its overall feel to the Steven Spielberg oeuvre but it's a wonderful little sci-fi pursuit flick. Like a really good episodeIt's like a really good episode of the X-Files.

Midnight Special owes a lot of its plot to Starman (1984) and its overall feel to the Steven Spielberg oeuvre but it's a wonderful little sci-fi pursuit flick.

Like a really good episode of the X-Files, it doesn't answer all your questions but is well worth the ride. Also worth mentioning, this movie full establishes Adam Driver as this generation's Jeff Goldblum.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
michael1208Apr 23, 2016
It's indeed a special science fiction thriller inspired by director/writer Jeff Nichols' own life experience who enjoys telling a story at his own vision that's not intently made for general audiences. The film revolves around a kid withIt's indeed a special science fiction thriller inspired by director/writer Jeff Nichols' own life experience who enjoys telling a story at his own vision that's not intently made for general audiences. The film revolves around a kid with supernatural abilities that has similarities to Spielberg's E.T., Close Encounters of the Third Kind and a little bit of Tomorrowland; its thin plot progresses slowly, less family friendly and humorless but it manages to engage audiences by triggering the eagerness to crack for all secrets behind the mystery. The entire journey is dangerous and emotional thanks to the outstanding performance by Michael Shannon as a caring father and well supported by the charming performance of the son by Jaeden Lieberher. It has limited but powerful scores, it does not reveal all secrets and end ambiguously, rather most importantly the science fiction acts as a metaphor to the beauty of parenthood - faith and sacrifice of parents to ensure the happiness of their children.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
badgerryan19May 19, 2017
Fantastic film. Very strong performances and a very interesting story. Movie def takes influences from "Superman" as the movie hints at during a scene.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
bdng09Aug 13, 2016
Beautiful film with an intriguing story that captivated me. I was on the edge of my seat, wanting to know, wanting to understand. I struggled with wanting the journey to end so I could see, but also fearful and sad that it would end. A must see.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
smiyamotSep 11, 2016
This was an interesting movie. Was it about a child abduction? a religious cult? a government conspiracy? superhuman powers? an alternate world on another dimension? So how did this kid get born from 2 normal human beings? It wasThis was an interesting movie. Was it about a child abduction? a religious cult? a government conspiracy? superhuman powers? an alternate world on another dimension? So how did this kid get born from 2 normal human beings? It was interesting to watch but a mash up of too many ideas.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
donaldistApr 17, 2016
It was refreshing, in watching this movie, to watch something that didn't feel the need to thickly lather on exposition at its very beginning. We know very little at the beginning of the film, and the gaps are filled in along the way, at aIt was refreshing, in watching this movie, to watch something that didn't feel the need to thickly lather on exposition at its very beginning. We know very little at the beginning of the film, and the gaps are filled in along the way, at a natural pace. "Midnight Special" is decidedly subtle, for the most part- the one issue I have with the film is that climax actually overplays its hand a bit too much, making the central mystery a bit too physical and literal. The ending remains just ambiguous and emotionally resonant enough for me to swallow the whole final act, however.
I certainly couldn't find fault with "Special"'s cast, which is one for the ages. The consistently great Michael Shannon manages to be startlingly heart-wrenching as the lead character, the father of a boy with unexplainable powers; Kirsten Dunst steals the third act of the film with just one reaction shot as the child's mother; Adam Driver is funny and awed as an NSA agent assigned to track the boy; Joel Edgerton is warm and driven as Shannon's second; Sam Shepard is fearsome and smug in a small role as a cult leader; Bill Camp makes for a soulful thug. And Jaeden Lieberher, the boy himself, chooses correctly to make the character the most even-headed of the film.
The film is masterfully directed by Jeff Nichols; one gorgeous shot I can recall immediately is of military vehicles rolling over a hilly road just as the sun is coming up. The score is a bit of an earworm, and sets the tone of the film well.
I've hesitated to include anything regarding the plot of this movie, but I hope I've established its best elements. Please, go see it, as it's one of the best of the year so far.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
callmellowApr 30, 2016
I must thank jeff nichols for this film perfect and rich in emotions, michael shannon is once again in top form as he was in the incredible “ take shelter” , love at first sight of the year, cheer.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
ginkgobilobaApr 13, 2016
We join the characters in a motel room. Who they are, and where they've come from, become slowly more apparent as the journey continues towards an unrevealed destination. The eventual revelation could hit you either of two ways, a bit like aWe join the characters in a motel room. Who they are, and where they've come from, become slowly more apparent as the journey continues towards an unrevealed destination. The eventual revelation could hit you either of two ways, a bit like a certain yeast-based sandwich filling.
Where this film really succeeds is presentation and camerawork. Together cinematographer Adam Stone and director / writer Jeff Nichols immediately give the film an urgent, mysterious atmosphere that rarely vanishes, right from the opening title appearing in front of the receding bumper of a throaty Chevelle, speeding through the night.

A tense, mysterious American road movie with a divisive plot twist, a film that needs to be seen at the cinema… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
SelenicApr 12, 2016
Midnight Special is one of the rare movies in the Science Fiction genre that manages to feel so human while still maintaining an incredibly powerful mystique.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
RAISEDbyWOLVESApr 23, 2016
'If it's not too much to ask, could you punch me in the face?' (Agent Sevier to Lucas the cop)MIDNIGHT SPECIAL is loaded with great actors. Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst,Adam Driver,Sam Shepard and the young boy played by'If it's not too much to ask, could you punch me in the face?' (Agent Sevier to Lucas the cop)MIDNIGHT SPECIAL is loaded with great actors. Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst,Adam Driver,Sam Shepard and the young boy played by Jaeden Lieberher.
A father has taken his son back from a cult leader and members are sent to bring the boy back. The FBI raids the cult farm and the entire cult is questioned about the boy and his whereabouts. The boy, Alton, wears goggles and is shielded from daylight and the sun as they travel at night and tape cardboard to the motel windows. It is as much a family film as it is a sci-fi/chase film.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
swelleanorJul 30, 2016
This was a kind of cerebral, slow moving, almost small in scope sci-fi film. I absolutely loved it. The acting, the sense of place, the mystery. I don't think it would have had as much impact if everything had been explained. I can't wait toThis was a kind of cerebral, slow moving, almost small in scope sci-fi film. I absolutely loved it. The acting, the sense of place, the mystery. I don't think it would have had as much impact if everything had been explained. I can't wait to see it again.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
JyroJyroAug 17, 2017
Definitely had a tinge of the Steven Spielberg magic throughout, with a mysterious story helped by excellent performances from Michael Shannon and Joel Edgerton. The atmosphere that was created (in part by the excellent cinematography) wasDefinitely had a tinge of the Steven Spielberg magic throughout, with a mysterious story helped by excellent performances from Michael Shannon and Joel Edgerton. The atmosphere that was created (in part by the excellent cinematography) was often awe-inspiring, feeling ultra retro and subtly futuristic at the same time. Despite the ending being a little anti-climatic, Midnight Special is a strong sci-fi debut for Jeff Nichols.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
adeluceroAug 11, 2016
I have only one word after watching this film, WOW. This is one of the best films I have ever seen in my life. The actors were good. Jaeden Lieberher portrays his character well making him intriguing. I also loved Michael Shannon and KirstenI have only one word after watching this film, WOW. This is one of the best films I have ever seen in my life. The actors were good. Jaeden Lieberher portrays his character well making him intriguing. I also loved Michael Shannon and Kirsten Dunst on their portrayal as well as Adam Driver. The plot was great, it was intense and intriguing that you can't wait on the next scene.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
ScarlettMiNov 25, 2016
This movie manages to throw you into the story with very little explanation while also being pretty slow and quiet. Midnight Special spends very little time answering questions or explaining what's happening. It could be frustrating to someThis movie manages to throw you into the story with very little explanation while also being pretty slow and quiet. Midnight Special spends very little time answering questions or explaining what's happening. It could be frustrating to some but it just added to the magic of the story for me.

There was something reminiscent of 70s-era Spielberg, where things felt just a little less safe and where the fantastic could be both inspiring and dangerous. I was really drawn into the quiet, intimate story and was invested in these characters.

I found the effects really well done. They were beautiful and strange. Near the end of the film, the way they used used the effects left a huge impact. They didn't draw attention to themselves and that just made it all that much more special.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
AWESOM-0Jan 15, 2020
This is a really really good movie that has many subtle things that really gets overlooked IMO.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
bbrraannJul 23, 2021
On the slower side, yes. But it never felt slow, since the superb acting and mystery kept your attention.
If you find movies like "Transformers" entertaining, this probably isn't your cup of tea.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Jess_HillJul 17, 2016
Oh how I long to watch this again on the big screen! Whilst there is an occasionally frustrating lack of exposition here, I found myself utterly entranced by this story, and I thoroughly enjoyed the teasing manner in which this grippingOh how I long to watch this again on the big screen! Whilst there is an occasionally frustrating lack of exposition here, I found myself utterly entranced by this story, and I thoroughly enjoyed the teasing manner in which this gripping storyline unfurls. The performances were exceptional, and it was especially pleasing to see yet another child actor who was polished and thoroughly believable. The originality of the concept and polished, subtle execution was thoroughly enjoyable and I found myself completely beguiled by the experience. 9.02/10… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
InglouriousAndyMay 18, 2016
"Midnight Special" is thrilling, emotional, exquisite, intricate, beautiful, wonderful, and inspiring. A fantastic and original sci-fi thriller with great performances and a gripping plot.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
marcmyworksDec 15, 2016
Oof. This film was a mission. It had so much promise and seemed to be an homage to 70s Sci-Fi flicks but in the end turned out to be a slowly paced, side adventure of a family trying to save their 'alien' son. Overall it wasn't a badly madeOof. This film was a mission. It had so much promise and seemed to be an homage to 70s Sci-Fi flicks but in the end turned out to be a slowly paced, side adventure of a family trying to save their 'alien' son. Overall it wasn't a badly made film, just have seen this plot done better before.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018
i think i know what i am now..

Midnight Special

This is a mere peculiar discussed topic rather than an astonishing tale like a good old E.T. and maybe this is the reason it stands alone on its extraordinary point of view.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
eagleeyevikingApr 13, 2017
While the journey to the astounding climax can be boring at times, Midnight Special harkens back to 80's film-making to deliver a tense, atmospheric, subtle sci-fi road trip that leaves plenty of space for character development and doesn'tWhile the journey to the astounding climax can be boring at times, Midnight Special harkens back to 80's film-making to deliver a tense, atmospheric, subtle sci-fi road trip that leaves plenty of space for character development and doesn't overblow its plot.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
InTrippyEntropySep 23, 2021
I barely noticed it was PG-13. Good acting all around, especially the kid was effective at being different. But the last 5 minutes felt corny, unnecessary and killed the mystery. Should have ended when the boy walked into the field by himselfI barely noticed it was PG-13. Good acting all around, especially the kid was effective at being different. But the last 5 minutes felt corny, unnecessary and killed the mystery. Should have ended when the boy walked into the field by himself and looked up. But then there was a bunch of other stuff that ruined the momentum. Highly recommended though… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 25, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a drama, mystery and science fiction based film and it covers themes including cults, father and son relationships, police, homage and faith. First off, I felt confused by what was going on in the first part of the film, as it very much starts as if we're half way through whatever is going on and the viewer is left in the dark. Speaking of dark, there are numerous scenes set during night and thus which have quite low lighting. This along with the rather sombre and doom-laden tone music certainly did leave me wondering what had led up to the events we're shown. I felt it seemed quite sinister and I found myself feeling eager to understand more about this somewhat secretive cult that seemed to be at the heart of the plot.

There are moments when things happen really quite suddenly, taking me aback. I think its fair to say that this has the feel of some sci-fi drama shows, perhaps like The X Files. Science Fiction is definitely an element of the plot but on the same hand, it is also quite a 'human' film as well, being set in modern day, with human vulnerabilities very much being of importance in terms of the plot. While the plot is undoubtedly a bit 'out there' (not in terms of being set outside Earth, which, as I say, it isn't but moreso in terms of the main plot being not entirely believable. Sure cults have existed and people may believe others to have certain unique traits but genuine supernatural powers?), I liked the way it was handled, with a somewhat mundane setting and a strong sense of menacing tension. I'd also like to point out that this is certainly not a superhero type of sci-fi film - it doesn't come from the world of Marvel comics or anything like that (certainly not to the best of my knowledge in any case).

Cast wise, the film stars Michael Shannon as the boys father, Roy. I wasn't aware of his work before but I found him to play the role really quite convincingly, seeming very much concerned for the welfare of his child, while said chid, Alton, is played by Jaeden Lieberher. He seems surprisingly quiet and introverted for most of the time - he can seem like a normal 10 year old (or thereabouts I guessed his age to be) and at other times, its clear he does seem to either have certain powers or to be at the mercy of something bigger. Other cast members include Joel Edgerton as Lucas, Kirsten Dunset as Sarah, Adam Driver as Sevier and Sam Shepard as Calvin Meyer.

Content wise, the film contains some mild to moderate violence, including gunfire, although little in the way of injuries are depicted, certainly not in a gratuitous way. There are a couple of profanities but no especially strong language used and I'd say its potentially moderately frightening (mainly for younger viewers) at times, due to the tension and menacing tone and given the plot but otherwise there's little likely to offend or upset people. Its been given a 12 rating in the UK, due to this.

I noticed at the start that the dialogue seemed a bit mumbled and was somewhat hard to follow, which may also frustrate some (I watched it as a Blu-Ray rental, so I'd have expected better audio quality - I don't usually have issues following whats said on films I watch). As the film progressed, I realised that there was surprisingly little in the way of dialogue and I felt that was somehow poignant. I suppose the main theme at play is the parental bond and the strength of that is made very much clear, not through what is explicitly said but in the actions and behaviour of both father and child, which I did find somewhat touching. I found the ending left me with many questions but then with this sort of sci-fi/mystery type film, thats almost always the case I suppose. I did feel like I'd have liked to have known a bit more, had a bit more background into the story and what happened after but maybe thats just me being a bit nit-picky. Its certainly spooky and potentially thought provoking but a bit of me was left wanting more - whether thats a good or bad thing, I'll leave for you to decide.

I would recommend this film, as I found it intriguing and tense and it has a good cast. It kept me wondering throughout, what would happen next and I enjoyed watching it.… Expand
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