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@augustkellerwrites
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Cloverfield has a catchy idea yet mediocre execution. The premise of a monster attack told from a found footage perspective is entertaining, but unfortunately, that’s all Cloverfield offers. The monster is intentionally mysterious, so the movie focuses on its characters. Therefore, these people are principal to Cloverfield's success (along with the messy action). The first act establishes their generic motivations, but it’s woefully thin and uninspired. The actors do alright with the slim material, but it all feels like a means to an end. Neither the plot nor the characters are meaningful or constructed. It’s all transparently in service of the gimmick.
Meanwhile, the gimmick isn’t completely effective. First, the camerawork is believably clumsy, but often chaotic and unpleasant. That's the idea, but it’s a downside to the experience. Next, the design of the monster is unremarkable, which is disappointing since that’s the film's main draw. Plus, the effects are overwhelmingly CGI and occasionally ugly. Lastly, the direction is generally void of creativity, so Cloverfield is missing a sense of craft or cohesion. Conversely, the editing is well-paced and the sound is complex, but these qualities only go so far. Overall, Cloverfield is fine entertainment, but more of a theme park ride than a film.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 6/10
Cinematography: 5/10
Acting: 7/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 6/10
Production Design: 4/10
Casting: 5/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 5.9/10
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