Annihilation is a tense and atmospheric film that discusses the conflict between humanity and the inevitable change that will come to it. Directed by Alex Garland, (the visionary director of Ex Machina) we see yet again another entirely unique story surface. This film follows Lena, a biologist whose husband (Oscar Isaac) has been missing for an entire year after he departs on a covert military job. She then realizes he has gone missing in a phenomenon known as “the shimmer”, a stretch of land that has great mystery attached to it. Without spoiling anything, we then see Lena’s journey into the shimmer, and the incredible visuals that are attached to it.

The visual effects in this film are incredibly unique. Everything is designed very earth-like, but there is a unnerving look to it that leaves you wary all the way through the film. Bright, prismatic colors fill the screen through light leaks and bleeding flares, and that produces an amazing “soap-bubble” effect to the entire world Lena is traveling in.

Natalie Portman delivers a strong performance, portraying a strong and vigilant woman who wants to see things to the end. She plays a carousel of emotions extremely well, which is expected of an actor at her caliber. The supporting cast, Jennifer Jason Lee, Gina Rodriguez, Tessa Thompson, and Tuva Novotny deliver fleshed out and valid supports to the plot. They each fit their stereotype well, and deliver emotional pulls that drag you deeper into the story. Oscar Isaac also plays a small but well executed role.

User be warned: this movie catches you off guard with intense and unnerving imagery, (which is exactly what I like). I was astounded by the creativity of the horrors that lay beyond the shimmer. These tense and terrifying moments create wild “genre-bending” moments that help keep the viewer on their toes. The idea of having no idea what will happen next drives this movie past many of the films like it in its genre.

I have a few minor complaints about the film though. Throughout the movie, I felt some portions were a bit slo
w, and that some plot development was left open ended. I personally loved the final act of the film, but it’s definitely one that will divide audiences. Be aware that this is a deep science fiction film in its truest nature. It asks enormous questions, and leaves you thinking long after it’s over. My cons of the movie are pretty insignificant though, because a part of me just wants to be open to the abstract and artistic view the movie is trying to create. It’s not necessarily bundled up with a pretty bow, but I believe that is what makes it a success.

Annihilation is a visual masterpiece that will be regarded as one of the best science fiction films in this current era. We need more films like this, that challenge the viewer and yearn for more than just blockbuster fun. While blockbuster fun is great, it is movies like this that will stand the test of time, and have people watching years down the road. I can’t wait to see this movie again, and I hope you take a chance and see it as well.