Movie Reviews: CHILDREN OF MEN
In theaters
CHILDREN OF MEN
Based on a P.D. James science-fiction novel, Children of Men is set in a futuristic dsytopia where humankind is on the brink of extinction and a sole pregnant woman holds the key to survival. A disillusioned bureaucrat (Clive Owen) and a woman from his past (Julianne Moore) are tasked with shepherding the pregnant woman to a secret organization that's been researching how to restore fertility to the world's population.
Cast Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Chjwetel Ejiofor, Peter Mullan, Charlie Hunnam (more)
Director(s) Alfonso Cuaron
Writer(s) Timothy J. Sexton, Alfonso Cuaron
Status In theaters (wide)
Genre(s) Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Release Date Dec. 25, 2006
MPAA Rating R - for strong violence, language, some drug use and brief nudity.
Review:
Children of Men is a wonderfully crafted allegory. Alfonso Cuaron has created one of the bleakest visions of a dystopia in recent memory. This film's relevance to our current world is obvious and unavoidable, yet Cuaron avoids preachy pitfalls as he moves the film at a brisk pace never letting anything linger too long. This film's visually arresting art directions make this like watching a live action version of the painting Guernica. Clive Owen is excellent in his role and conveys a perfect sense of dishevel-ness and despair. Julianne Moore is listed as one of the stars of the film but is only on screen for a minuscule amount of time. Michael Caine delivers another fine performance as Owen's aging hippy confidant. Be forewarned that this film is violent and the violence is extremely visceral and creates a sense of dread through. Some of the battle sequences rival Saving Private Ryan in terms of realism and immersion. As a whole this film is a gem, a must see film even with its nihilistic theme.
A
