Review - District 9

District 9 is the latest movie from Peter Jackson as a producer. It is directed by Neill Blomkamp and co-written by Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell. It takes place in present day South Africa and tells the story of a race of aliens resembling insects that became stranded on earth about 25 years ago. The aliens, referred to by most humans as "prawns" ("bottom-feeders") are forced to live in a closed off, concentrated area called District 9. The district soon becomes nothing more than a slum where the prawns are forced to search for food and supplies. The prawns, who are mostly passive, are subjected to strict regulations from the human organization referred to as the MNU. Early on we see MNU, led by Wikus Van de Merwe, serving eviction notices to the prawns. It is this Van de Merwe that becomes entangled in the lives of the prawns and finds himself helping their cause to get back home...but we won't tell you why as to not spoil the details.

When you watch this film it is obvious that this is not a Hollywood movie. This is an independent film which is a good thing. Every now and then a break is needed from seeing the same actors, same special effects, and unnecessary humor. We probably need a few more independent movies. The semi-documentary style in which it's filmed is very nice to see and not overdone or difficult to watch. Also it is interesting to see a movie not having to take place in the United States, as if this really happened it would have to happen in the USA.

The overall theme of District 9 is the question of how would you, and humanity in general, react if another race of intelligent life showed up on earth. Would we help or think of them as second class inconviences? There are obvious parallels drawn between the humans in District 9 and The Holocaust of 70 years ago and other similar events. Which side would you be on?

This movie should definitely be seen...


DISTRICT 9 - GO NOW!!!!!