Cloverfield Review - Not Bad

I decided to watch the highly advertised movie Cloverfield. Unlike the viral videos floating about online, and being that it was a JJ Abrams video (LOST), I assumed the movie would be a mysterious twist of secrets and questions. Although mysterious, it did not leave me hanging with as many questions as I thought. Don't get me wrong, there were questions, but not as many.

I am here to tell you that there is nothing to be concerned about. There is a lot in this movie that was not shown in the marketing. There is more monster than I originally believed there would be. And yes, you do get to see him very very very close-up. He’s unlike any movie monster I’ve ever seen before in a movie. A very cool and unique design, and I think you’ll be pleased. The sound design is incredible, I seriously wouldn’t be shocked if this got nominated for some sound related awards, possibly an Oscar?

The characters are very relatable, even though you don’t get too much background information on any of them. It’s all background, getting to know some of the characters, and it’s all a slow build for the monster’s first reveal. When you see the monster all hell will break loose, and you'll feel like you’re stuck in the middle of this horrific situations with a group of new friends.

The story follows Rob, a young many who has just gotten a job in Japan. His goodbye party is interrupted by the monstrous scream we’ve all seen a billion and a half times in the teaser trailer. While everyone is trying to get out of New York City, Rob is trying to reconnect with Beth, who is trapped in midtown. The guy I enjoyed listening to was HUD, who appears on camera just a few times. But you will get to know him very well. HUD is the man behind the video camera, documenting the whole thing as it goes down. His running commentary is hilarious, and you will quickly grow to love him. HUD is one of the reasons that Cloverfield works so well I think.

Now I won't go any further. I don't want to spoil anything for you. My main concern for watching this movie was the first person view. I am sensitive to motion sickness and that was the only thing I was worried about. Although I did get sick after the first 45 minutes, it was not as bad as I expected. There is camera shakiness (if that is a word) but usually around the parts where they were running or walking fast. Lots of strange angles were involved and I found myself turning my head a few times.

If you've seen Blair Witch, then you'll know, however, unlike Blair Witch, Cloverfield uses this method to tell a story. It is unique and it worked. Despite me getting sick, I enjoyed this film. I heard many stories of how the ending was horrible and it sucked, but I beg to differ. Although not your typical ending, JJ decided to through a few loops in the pictures that made it seem more realistic, and I did not mind the ending. You should check it out. You just might like it.

8 Out Of 10 Stars