Attack the Block

I had some mixed emotions going into this movie. In the 80's, the films Stand by Me, E.T. and The Goonies did a good job of telling stories of rebellious teenagers going on adventures with no parents around but as times went on, those type of films have kind of changed. Since the 80's, we have had films like Super 8 that struggled quite a bit as it was so unrealistic and also Zathura and Jumanji having the same problem. Attack the Block has this type of plot idea and is about a group of British punk teens fighting aliens during the dark hours. Really, I think this film really goes overboard and was a bit different than my expectations. It does bring some very raw power for a film in this genre and in a way it creates it's own unique spot in the movie history books.

What is surprising about this film to me is the cast. Nick Frost is here who we've seen before and is his usual good self but in addition to Frost, there is a cast of new actors that really stood out for me. From John Boyega to Simon Howard, every one of these actors does a phenomenal job. They have a laid back feel making you root for them and I think all these actors have a shot at more work after this film due to their fine performances.

This film had a good deal of action which is where a film like Super 8 faltered. There is also some top level gore mixed in with great effects which compliments the cast. These are gold scenes as I would call them and especially these action scenes are hard to top. Another thing I really liked is how the creature is used here. It is used in an exciting way that fits right into the film's running time and adds to a great finish.

Also, the set-up to the film is a little different. Characters all are doing things in realistic motion. The attack scenes in particular have good motion and this includes the more minor characters too.

One thing that does not surprise me with this film is how little the parents of these kids are used here. I know it was going to be hard enough to add them to the story but at least there maybe could have been an effort. Without the parents, the story feels a little unrealistic and you even wonder if child social services should be involved here.

Attack the Block is a film that comes close to working at everything it tries to do. It is essentially a retro film that really could have worked in the 80's. It is a film that is almost on par with 80's teen classics, The Goonies, E.T. and Stand by Me and that says something in my book.

4.5/5