(spoiler free)
Alex Garland has been contributing to the world of film for over twenty years now through his writing, screen-writing & directing. His projects tell some of the most interesting and exciting stories we’ve seen on the screen in recent years. Although it wasn’t until 2015 that he really attracted a lot of attention. This was as a result of his excellent directorial debut, ‘Ex Machina’. Due to the strength of that debut, his latest feature, ‘Annihilation’, was on many film fan’s most anticipated list for the year.
Garland has adapted the novel of the same name by Jeff VanderMeer for the screen in which a group of scientists embark into a quarantined zone known as ‘The Shimmer’, hoping to find the cause of this unexplained phenomenon. One of the strongest elements of the film’s promotion and ultimately it’s execution is it’s female led cast. The characters that they play are well written and are a fantastic example to other storytellers of how a compelling narrative can exist without the dominance of male characters. The film isn’t wholly exclusive though with small roles for both Benedict Wong and Oscar Isaac, who both fulfill their roles well with Isaac’s involvement proving particularly intrinsic to the narrative. Though it’s the main group of female actresses who really tell the bulk of the story. Lead by Natalie Portman, who plays an ex military biologist the group consists of a range of different personalities portrayed brilliantly by fellow cast members; Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tessa Thompson, Gina Rodriguez & Tuva Novotny. We don’t necessarily get to know all of the characters in complete depth but enough is revealed about each of them to give them purpose and place within this story, creating a well balanced and authentic screenplay.
It’s no surprise that it’s this screenplay where the real strength of the film lies. The premise for the film is presented well, laying foundations of mystery for the audience which develop nicely throughout. We’re treated to the right amounts of information at the right time, helped by the non-linear method of storytelling adopted. The film also features a range of action sequences, these are somewhat sparse but when they hit they hit hard and ensure that your attention will be nowhere else but on the screen. They’re incredibly creative and executed to the high standard audiences will expect. They also feature some of the coolest elements of the story but the less known about these the better your experience will be. In between the moments of action and mystery the film is full of scientific dialogue and exposition, only adding to the already fascinating story. This proves how science-fiction can be smart, scary and fun simultaneously. All of this is brought to life so vividly as the film boasts some beautiful visuals, one of the main reasons I’m devastated not to have witnessed this film on a cinematic screen, due to it’s Netflix release here in the UK. However, this can’t hold the film back from having it’s desired effect and still delivers an awe-inspiring experience for the viewer.
The film is strong throughout but builds to an absolutely mesmerising finale. Like other science-fiction classics it has the potential to polarize viewers but it engrossed me in a way like ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ & ‘Interstellar’ managed and in my book that’s a pretty special feat. Alex Garland has showcased his spectacular ability as both a writer and director once more, telling both a story on such a grand yet intimate scale. Furthermore, it’s a story which will require, deserves and provokes a want to rewatch it, which at least it’s release onto the aforementioned streaming platform facilitates. Despite this, I don’t think I’ll be content until I see ‘Annihilation’ on the biggest and loudest cinema screen possible. Is that too much to ask for the latest modern sci-fi classic?
Written by Hamish Calvert
Rating – 8.5/10
Question: What is your favourite Alex Garland screenplay?
(Leave your answers in the comments section below!)
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