Ten years ago, “District 9” was released into theaters. It came out in a time prior to the internet, setting critics and average moviegoers at each other’s throats, and was lauded for its groundbreaking special effects and universal themes that reflected the Apartheid era. Since then, there have been a variety of different science fiction films that continued to try to break new boundaries, with some examples in the last couple years including “Ex Machina,” “Blade Runner 2049” and “Annihilation.” However, because it does not include superheroes and major franchises or generate another $1.5 billion for Disney, there are unfortunately not a lot of movies being made in the genre. This is why it is so refreshing when a new science fiction film that is actively engaging comes out, which is the case with “Captive State.”
“Captive State” is directed by Rupert Wyatt (“The Gambler”) and takes a look at the world if it were invaded by aliens who controlled everything in a very well-structured totalitarianism system. The film revolves around two major storylines: William Mulligan (John Goodman, “The Connors”), a police commander who is attempting to neutralize the resistance group Phoenix, which is actively working to undermine the aliens; and Gabriel Drummond (Ashton Sanders, “The Equalizer 2”), a young kid who is attempting to get himself away from the city. Both storylines end up clashing together when it is revealed that Gabriel’s brother Rafe (Jonathan Majors, “White Boy Rick”) is one of the most active members of Phoenix, whom the Chicago police are trying to neutralize in order to placate the alien invaders.
Wyatt utilizes a bleak, miserable-looking exterior to showcase overall human mentality during times of totalianist control from the past, evoking images of Nazi Germany, Communist Russia and Mussolini-controlled Italy. Since this is not the first alien invasion film made like this, there are a few tropes to be found, but because it has been such a while since a film like this has been made, everything feels fun and original. The characters, while not the flashiest or the most engaging, all have a humble melancholy about them. Some may find that boring, but for the purposes of this film, it makes sense, all the characters possess inhibitor chips in their necks for the aliens to track them, forcing them to keep themselves calm to avoid detection. Goodman in particular plays this role very close to the chest, continuing his streak of being amazing in low-key science fiction films that he started with “10 Cloverfield Lane.”
The thing that stands out the most about this film, however, is that the story itself is interesting, and the attention to detail is astounding. This is the first film in a while where the twists and turns did not feel forced in order to generate a reaction but rather natural and part of the story. The casting of the supporting characters is also well done, and it is commendable to see most directors now going for so many new up-and-comers as opposed to acting legends. Some people may be turned off by this film’s apparent lack of pace and action, but for those who are looking for a good engaging science fiction film, this is the one.
Image from Focus features via YouTube
