Well. This was a film we watched…
I’m just not sure what to think about this tale! Part of me absolutely adores the overall tone and the visual aspects of the film, but the plot is just so vague.
Let’s dive in to my quick review!
My Thoughts About the Film Adaptation of Annihilation
I had heard many things about both the novel and the film adaptation of Annihilation.
During the sci-fi readathon, I finally dove into the book. As soon as I finished reading, I was left a bit confused. I really enjoyed the book, but I definitely think it’s one that I need to reread in order to better understand.
Even so, I couldn’t wait to snag a copy of the film from my local library. As soon as it came in, I went to pick it up and then settled in for a movie night with Alex.
The movie was stunning! The visual effects were just amazing. I loved the whole prism feature and how there were rainbows all over the place due to the refraction. And the creatures!! SO well done! One creature specifically will haunt me for a long time, I’m sure!
The casting was wonderful. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the five women and the actors that played their roles were wonderful!
I just love everything that Natalie Portman does. Seeing Tessa Thompson in a role like this was wicked fun as well! Gina Rodriguez was new to me. I don’t believe I’ve seen any of her work before, but I’m definitely going to have to check her list out soon! She was amazing! I loved learning that Gina and Tessa did ALL of their own stunts!
The overall film was quite different from the book. I’m still not sure what to think about that. Part of me likes how it was organized and how it kept the overall tone of the book… But when comparing the two, in my opinion, the creep factor was lacking in the film. There was more of an urgency in the film that kept watchers on the edges of their seats. So of course that was enjoyable, just different.
However, just like the book, when the film ended, we sat there for a moment before Alex said, “I think I liked it? But I have no idea what I just watched.” That statement sums up my thoughts as well…
Overall, this is definitely a film I would recommend because of the visual effects and the awesome acting. But I’d caution you to go into this one with an open mind and understand that the ending is a bit… strange.
This is not a film for people that need movies to end with all the loose ends tied up nicely in a bow. Just like the novel, it’s a bit of a fever dream-like tale.
Book Rating: 3 stars | Film Rating: 3 stars
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Thanks for reading!
Have you read or watching this adaptation yet? If so, did you prefer one over the other?
hmm..I wasn’t too into the book, but I still want to watch the movie.
I’d love to see what you think if you watch it! It was a fun watch, but really odd…
I haven’t read OR seen this, but it definitely sounds a bit confusing. HAH!
-Lauren
Definitely… haha!
I haven’t read the book, but I did like the movie – especially that ending.
That’s awesome to hear!! I’d be so curious to see what you think of the book! I need to re-read it again soon while it’s still fresh in my mind!
I liked the book a bit better than the movie. It’s been a while since I watched and read the movie and book, but I remember not liking the changes as much in the movie. I’ve been meaning to continue with the trilogy…and hope it all makes a bit more sense. But it’s still a terrifying concept and the movie was visually stunning!
Yeah, it’s such a toss up for me. I definitely need to still re-read the first book. I just finished the second. It gives you more info, so I’m really curious about book three!
I own the book and the film but I’m still nervous of both! I do intend to read the book during the summer!
I can’t wait to see what you think!! 🙂