Arrival (2016)

☆ ☆ ☆ ½

Arrival (2016) – D. Villeneuve

Denis Villeneuve’s science fiction film never underestimates the audience’s intelligence (using real scientists and linguistics scholars as advisors), yet it still comes across as somewhat loopy.  This may be because some of the logical connections that hold the plot together are given short shrift, ending up almost as MacGuffins (Hitchcock’s term for the objects that drive the suspense plot, such as a secret formula that spies wish to obtain, that never really need to be understood or explained).  For example, we almost get to understand the links between learning the alien language and developing a mastery over time – but not quite.  Nevertheless, the film is enjoyable simply for the process that it unfolds, showing how human methods can be used to tackle a surreal situation (and to some degree how human nature can get in the way).  Amy Adams, linguist, and Jeremy Renner, scientist, are enlisted by Forest Whitaker, Colonel, to meet the aliens (who have landed their ships in 12 locations around the world) and to learn the purpose of their arrival (which means learning their language, a painstaking but enthralling task).  Interspersed with this are flashbacks from Amy Adams’ life that help her to tackle the challenge.  The look of the film is sombre and the music often matches that mood.  Think of it as starting where Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1979) left off, with much of the action occurring inside the alien spacecraft.  What consequences would there be for humanity and for individuals?  There’s more to think about – with a “would you kill Hitler” slant – but I hesitate to indulge in too many spoilers in this review; I’m not quite sure the final twist was done justice (though it does make you want to watch the film again).  Definitely worth a look, particularly if you like sci-fi.