Super 8

    Alas, it has been a few months since my last entry and my only explanation is that life happens. Since my last post, I have moved into a new apartment, started a new job away from the restaurant industry, and attended my graduation ceremony from Le Cordon Bleu Chicago. My job new is special perk, because it allows me the flexibility to schedule multiple events around it, in addition to being able to write more often!
    Now getting to the task at hand, J. J. Abrams's Sci-Fi/Adventure "Super 8". The film is essentially the story of a group of kids in small town 1970's America that are attempting to make an amateur horror film for a contest. On the first night of filming the scripted version (of their film), they bear witness to a horrible accident that leads to their lives (and the lives of everyone in their community) being torn apart by military personnel, missing dogs, and a rampaging creature. Abrams & team do their best to portray a classic tale of child heroism, love, humor, and horror. Reminiscent of film classics "The Goonies" & "E.T.", Abrams manages to channel the creative genius that mad Steven Spielberg who he is today.
    The best aspects of "Super 8" are the emotional depths you are taken to throughout the film. Dealing with adult decisions as child and facing hardships such as untimely death, and unrequited love. An emotional roller-coaster that you will be glad to be on, where the highs lie within subtle humor and youthful cliches. As an added bonus, if you sit through the credits Abrams treats us the final product of the amateur horror film. A truly beautiful homage to classic early 80's Sci-Fi cinema, "Super 8" is the first great PG-13 film of the 2011 cinematic year.

Rating: 5 Stars (maximum of 5)