Cloverfield (2008)

I know it's early in the year, but one of the first films of 2008 is not easily forgettable. Cloverfield is a MUST SEE on the big screen.

On the eve of Rob's (Michael Stahl-David) departure to Japan (wink, nod), friends gather to say goodbye. An uninvited guest, i.e. monster crashes the party and sends close friends on a journey of survival.

Sorry folks, you're not getting any more. The story follows a group of friends and their attempt to survive a monster attack on Manhattan. What makes Cloverfield WORTH SEEING is that the viewer joins the group through the lens of Hud's (T.J. Miller) camera. Hud was the official documentarian of the party until the monster hit. He was supposed to get good wishes from the party goers-- you know, like in a wedding. Fortunately for us, the camera is seemingly seared to his hand as he, Rob and a few others desperately try to get to Rob's friend (and crush) Beth (Odette Yustman)-- who is smack dab in the middle of it.

Cloverfield feels fresh and different because of this hand-held technique. Director Matt Reeves (28 Weeks Later) thrusts the viewer into the chaos. Sensitive movie-goers and those prone to motion sickness, be warned. We don't know any more than Hud and like him, we are sucked into the mayhem-- heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping, throat-burning chaos. Several times I found myself yelling at Hud, 'Watch out!'

Director Reeves has pulled together a no-name cast that provide remarkable believability. They may not make smart decisions, but they make credible ones.

The plot line for Rob and Beth is inane-- we all know it's just a vehicle for the monster attack. Look closer and you see the interaction of the people involved and how they cope as the world crumbles around them. Watching Rob, Hud, Lily (Jessica Lucas)and Marlena (Lizzy Capland) all these epiphany-like moments where you can see they are weighing the benefits of their actions. Or not.

Overall, the film is devoid of a soundtrack, but sound is the first thing you notice. Thank the Maker for THX!! You teeth rattle as Rob and his cohorts rush to the roof to get a look. As they all rush down the stairs, the pandemonium is palatable. The special effects are perfect, best I can tell. Hud couldn't keep the camera still enough.

I had to view this one twice-- in the same day, just to make sure the experience was real. I think Cloverfield with give way to two distinct camps. This is a love/hate movies. While I can see the plot holes in retrospect, you don't have time to even consider them during the film, nor does it really matter. I mean we are trying to survive!!

Riveting, intense and thoroughly entertaining, Cloverfield is a visceral film that leaves a lasting impression. Stay past the credits. Not for the scenes, but for the sounds.

Don't miss this on the big screen!!