Life Review

     Life is the newest sci-fi, horror flick to hit theaters this weekend and going into it audiences were not quite sure what to expect. The trailers and marketing made the film seem very reminiscent of Alien but the cast that surrounds is what mostly had audiences interested. Although the story is very formulaic and the characters are not the most intriguing, Life thrives as a beautifully creepy, monster movie.

     Is this movie very much like Alien and multiple other sci-fi horror films? Yes, very much so. But I think what makes this film work well is the setup of tension, especially with the Mars alien that they refer to as Calvin. What makes Calvin so intriguing on-screen is the development that is presented. Calvin needs the food, oxygen, and water just like humans therefore it makes sense as to why he wants to eat everyone that is aboard the ship. The creature also doesn't necessarily look like a threatening at the beginning but develops into this terrifying monster throughout the film. There are truly creepy visuals in this movie and by the end of it, you're really hoping that this creature is killed... Like soon.
     The creepy visuals stem from the camerawork in this film. The cinematography is done by Seamus McGarvey and he does a wonderful job of making the audience feel isolated in this spaceship. Much like the original Alien, you truly feel the monster could be at any corner just lurking. There's also an opening shot in this movie that is awesome and really helps to display the setting.

     The characters in this movie don't necessarily bring anything new to the table. But the performances are not bad. The three stars that helm this movie are Jake Gyllenhaul, Ryan Reynolds, and Rebecca Ferguson. All of them do well in their roles but it's nothing to write home.
     The biggest problem this film has occurs within the final 15 minutes. The ending is one that audiences will be able to recognize from a mile away. Predictability within a movie isn't necessarily a bad thing but it needs to have a good setup and execution. This ending here feels very rushed and just seems like the writers decided to shake it up at the last minute.
     Life is an intriguing sci-fi, horror flick even though it does not necessarily bring anything new to the table. It's not one that has to be seen in theaters but if you would like to see it then I would advise against it.

Rating: 6.3 out of 10