Cloverfield

When you think of a cinematic thriller – full of chases, explosions, guns, and something terrorizing New York City – there is no better way to describe it than “Cloverfield.” Well… maybe not. But remember what Mom said – don’t judge a book by its cover.

First off, one thing that I have to say about the movie is that it is original. The way that the film was created (a high budget film in a shaky, handy cam fashion) was very creative. The main point is that the movie could not have been successful if it was not filmed in a documentary style. Throughout the film, you feel as if the characters are real. They appear to be running around with a camera, and filming something that they have no knowledge about. That is what makes the movie so great.

Coupled with the innovative filming, the acting actually is not bad at all. This coming from a cast full of unknowns – they really do make the movie believable – another reason why I enjoyed the movie so much. The first part of the movie is spent introducing the characters, and who they are. I feel that you really do know who these people are before they even know anything bad is going to happen to them. That is where so many films fail, in their attempt to pack in too much action and not enough character development.

The real action begins during a big going away party for the main character. And far from cliché, even though all his friends are there he is still not happy – because the love of his life is with someone else, and now he is leaving town. During a heart-felt discussion with his brother and cameraman friend, an earth-shattering disturbance takes place. Earthquake? No. Huge scary monster that no one has ever seen and no one knows how to kill? Precisely. This is the start of the main plotline – basically try not to get killed and save the woman you love.

The entire movie is filmed from the perspective of one of the main character’s best friends, who adds an element of comedy in a situation where it is much needed. The friends flee to try and escape the city, meanwhile experiencing multiple run-ins with whatever is trying to destroy their existence. The realistic feel of the camerawork truly adds to the entire experience, making the characters more relatable – not to mention giving the audience the feeling of being right there amongst the action.

Overall, the movie is very entertaining and one of the most original concepts that we have seen in a long time. A “monster destroying New York City” movie that is actually good has been long over due, and Cloverfield is definitely worth seeing.

I give the film 3.5 out of 5 Stars.

IMDB