Yes the basic plot isn't particularly original, but it the way in which the story is told that has this movie stands out. Movies don't necessarily have to have original plots to be good, they just have to have something about them that is original or intriguing. This movie succeeds with its point of view and tone. It's also unusual to have young children under 10 as the stars in such films and boy does this little star nail her performance. We'll be seeing more of her as she ages I imagine. Worth watching just for her performance alone.

My title pretty much says it all. For those of you who grew up reading 'serious' Science Fiction, you will appreciate this movie. It is very rare to find a Sci Fi film that would be what I would personally call 'serious', but this is it. Not exactly 'Hard' Science Fiction in the sense of it being real technical, but serious in the sense of it being in my lowly and wretched opinion, a DAMN good story!

I have no bloody idea who this little actress is, but if hopefully she can survive the dangerous rigors of Hollywood, she is going to be a PHENOMENAL actor... IS a phenomenal actor. Quite impressive. Most child actors usually I feel come across as either somewhat artificial or overdone, but definitely not this little lady. Restrained, controlled, and VERY believable.

Also, I got to hand it to ol' Bruce Dern... The dude was frigg'n MADE for this part. There were some very nice, but subtle touches of dry humour in just a few well placed areas too that gave the film a nice rounded emotional anchor. And, I loved the way the writers / director really did an excellent job keeping the audience truly guessing about what the HELL is going on, playing out the story and clues at just the right pace that I personally found quite riveting.

If you do enjoy serious Science Fiction and don't mind forgoing the big technological effects of your usual blockbuster Marvel film (not that there's anything wrong with that either : ) and you appreciate just a really well done story and a pretty darn good mystery if you go in cold, not knowing anything about it beforehand, then I think you will really find this movie not only very entertaining and involving, but also rather powerfully moving as well.

A nice find...

Been waiting awhile to watch this take on "what if mutants (X-men) started popping up in the real world?" Suspenceful script, taut direction and an excellent cast elevate this fine indie flick. Bruce Dern and Emile Hirsch star in this sci-fi thriller and with those two you know the movie is off to a good start. The claustrophobic atmosphere and smart script literally kept me on the edge of my seat for much of the picture. Really enjoyed it, well done.