Movie spotlight
Thirty years ago, aliens arrive on Earth. Not to conquer or give aid, but to find refuge from their dying planet. Separated from humans in a South African area called District 9, the aliens are managed by Multi-National United, which is unconcerned with the aliens' welfare but will do anything to master their advanced technology. When a company field agent contracts a mysterious virus that begins to alter his DNA, there is only one place he can hide: District 9.
In an alternate 1982, an alien spacecraft appears over Johannesburg, South Africa, but instead of invasion, the aliens, referred to as 'Prawns,' are refugees. They are subsequently moved to an internment camp called District 9. Decades later, the Prawns are facing forced relocation by the Multi-National United (MNU) corporation, which plans to move them to a new, less desirable camp. The story follows Wikus van de Merwe, a low-level MNU bureaucrat tasked with leading the operation, who finds himself infected with an alien substance that begins to transform him.
District 9 was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its innovative blend of science fiction, social commentary, and action. Critics praised its gritty realism, unique visual style, and compelling performances, particularly from Sharlto Copley. The film's allegorical themes of apartheid, xenophobia, and corporate greed resonated strongly with audiences and reviewers alike, making it a standout film of its year.
Praised for its inventive blend of intense action and sharp social commentary.
Sharlto Copley's performance as the transforming protagonist is a standout element.
Lauded for its gritty, documentary-style filmmaking and unique visual effects.
Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly enjoyed District 9, with many highlighting its originality, thought-provoking themes, and thrilling action sequences. Viewers appreciated the film's fresh take on alien contact and its effective use of social allegory, finding it both entertaining and intelligent.
Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Visual Effects, and Best Film Editing. It also received numerous other nominations and wins at various international film festivals and awards ceremonies.
The distinctive look of the 'Prawn' aliens was inspired by insects and other arthropods, with director Neill Blomkamp wanting them to feel grounded and believable rather than overtly humanoid.
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The first twenty minutes or so of this is presented as if it were a documentary and with information whizzing about all over the place and tiny onscreen graphics attempting to set the scene, I found it really quite annoying. I was tempted t...
**For a low-budget film, it's a good effort.** I'm not a big fan of films about aliens, so the film won't be my cup of tea at all. However, that didn't stop me from seeing it, and appreciating what's good about it. Without a colossal bud...
A gritty and original story that is as entertaining as thought-provoking, combining xenophobic satire and political allegory with raucous action. 8/10
Great watch, will watch again, and highly recommended. This has a wonderfully exciting premise: alien refugees on Terra, how Terrans react and how the aliens react. The premise, as delivered, has some odd holes in though: it's specified...
This was an outstanding debut by the New Zealander Blomkamp. Consistently enthralling and keeping one at the edge of his seat. THIS is a recent film, like 'Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World', that should have spawned sequels. ...