ENCOUNTER [MOVIE REVIEW]
ENCOUNTER [MOVIE REVIEW]
"Encounter" is a science fiction thriller film released in 2021 and directed by Michael Pearce. The movie stars Riz Ahmed as Malik Khan, a former Marine who believes that his son Jay (Lucian-River Chauhan) has been abducted by an alien force. The story unfolds as Malik embarks on a dangerous journey to rescue his son and protect him from the mysterious extraterrestrial entity.
The movie begins with Malik returning to the United States after a long stint in Afghanistan. He's a troubled and haunted man who suffers from PTSD and struggles to adjust to civilian life. Things take a turn for the worse when Malik's ex-wife tells him that their son Jay has been exhibiting strange behavior and may be in danger. Malik sets out to find his son and comes to the conclusion that Jay has been taken by an alien force.
The film's narrative is dark and brooding, and Pearce does an excellent job of building tension and suspense throughout the movie. The opening sequence is particularly effective in setting the tone and establishing Malik's character. We see him in a desolate landscape, armed and ready for a fight. The camera work and sound design are superb, and they create a sense of unease and foreboding.
One of the movie's strong points is the performance of Riz Ahmed. He delivers a nuanced and layered performance, capturing the complexity of Malik's character. Ahmed conveys the character's trauma and emotional pain in a subtle and understated way, and his performance elevates the movie.
The film also benefits from its minimalist approach to the sci-fi elements. The alien force is never fully revealed, and the movie focuses on the characters' reactions to it rather than showing us the creature itself. This approach allows the audience to fill in the gaps with their imagination and adds to the overall sense of dread and unease.
However, the movie is not without its flaws. The pacing of the film can be slow at times, and some scenes feel stretched out. The film's final act also feels rushed, with certain plot points not fully explored or explained. Some viewers may find the ending unsatisfying, as it leaves several questions unanswered.
The film's exploration of trauma and mental health is one of its most significant themes. Malik's PTSD is a significant part of his character, and the film delves into how his experiences in war have affected him. The movie also explores how trauma can affect a person's relationships and their ability to connect with others.
Another theme that the film explores is the idea of conspiracy and the government's role in covering up information. Malik's pursuit of the truth and his efforts to rescue his son put him at odds with the authorities, who are more concerned with maintaining the status quo than revealing the truth. This theme is particularly relevant in today's world, where misinformation and conspiracy theories are rampant.
In conclusion, "Encounter" is a well-crafted sci-fi thriller that explores themes of trauma, mental health, and conspiracy. Michael Pearce's direction, Riz Ahmed's performance, and the film's minimalist approach to the sci-fi elements are all strong points. The film's slow pacing and unsatisfying ending may turn off some viewers, but overall, "Encounter" is a thought-provoking and engaging movie that's worth checking out.The movie's use of sound and visuals is also noteworthy, with the desolate landscapes and eerie music contributing to the film's overall sense of unease. The movie is not a typical sci-fi action blockbuster, but it offers a unique and thought-provoking take on the genre, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of science fiction and suspense.
About the Creator
Tanvir Ameen
I am equipped with a diverse educational background in various disciplines, including journalism, literature, and marketing, I possesses a comprehensive understanding of different industries and can adapt seamlessly to any subject matter.
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