Two Tickets

Oh J.J., you have done it again. I watched Super 8 on Friday night at my very favorite theater (you know, assigned seating and seat-side service – love it). Unfortunately, the previews where meh (nothing I hadn’t seen before), but in the end that didn’t take away from the experience.

The film opens in a powerful way, managing to say something without saying anything. After that, I was hooked. As we were introduced to the main characters, a very Spielbergian feel started to come through. They could not have cast this film better. The young cast all worked off each other and were able to joke and be serious. When it comes down to it, the cast makes this film (Goonies anyone?). 

As well, adding some fun for Abrams’ fans, the town in which the film takes place had little hidden pieces from other J.J. films (the gas station was called Kelvin’s, if you know then you know). I loved the little trinkets he placed in the film to give you that 1979 feel (i.e. a walkman, introduced in by Sony 1979). And with the appropriate wardrobe and music you immediately felt as if you’d slipped back in time. 

Mr. Abrams has knack for showing us everything other than that one thing that we want to see so badly, and this film is no different. I love his no show style, and how he focuses on the kids and the relationships more than cheap ‘monster’ tricks.

This movie flows from start to finish, and it has what all movies should strive for: GREAT story telling. If you miss the days of going to the theater and watching something that isn’t all bells and whistles and focuses on a great cast AND a great story, well J.J Abrams’ has hit the mark. Welcome back to what summer movies should be! 

~ The Ticket

PS. The kid with the braces is my favorite.