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District 9
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District 9

District 9

2009
Drama, Sci-fi
1h 52m
An extraterrestrial race forced to live in slum-like conditions on Earth suddenly find a kindred spirit in a government agent that is exposed to their biotechnology.

Directed by:

Neill Blomkamp

Screenwriter:

Neill Blomkamp, Terri Tatchell

Starring:

Jed Brophy, William Allen Young, Kenneth Nkosi, John Sumner, Jason Cope, Sharlto Copley, Nathalie Boltt, Sylvaine Strike, Elizabeth Mkandawie, Vanessa Haywood, Mandla Gaduka, Johan van Schoor

Genres:

Drama, Sci-fi, Suspense/Thriller, Action

Countries:

Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, USA

Languages:

English, Xhosa, Zulu, Nyanja, Afrikaans, Sotho
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District 9

2009
Drama, Sci-fi
1h 52m
Your probable score
Ratings & Reviews Cast Collections Similar Stats Trailer
Avg Percentile 62.07% from 14219 total ratings
Ratings & Reviews Cast Collections Similar Stats Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

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kasperlKasperL
Rated 23 Aug 2009
90
97th
Science fiction is, for me, all about the world that is created. More often than not it is the vision as a whole, rather than the plot, that sticks - and what a world Blomkamp creates here! Nevermind the allegory, this is about faultlessly realized aliens and mindblowingly cool weaponry. It's pure fun and, for once, a mockumentary framing device works very well, meshing seamlessly with the mindless action. Oh, and Copley does a great job, too, as the weird but loveable Wikus.
Rated 23 Aug 2009
jebJeb
Rated 13 Aug 2009
90
79th
District 9 is the most propitiously first-rate and encouragingly sensible and prosperous sci-fi film of the summer. Not only is it a perspicacious commentary on humanity and other such global themes, but on its own as a regular and standard film it is unstoppable. The imagery is vibrant and energetically glowing in quality, and the acting is top-notch. The biggest sleeper triumph ever, and hopefully it brings overwhelming exposure to Blomkamp. He has all the talent in the world loaded into him.
Rated 13 Aug 2009
astrakhanastrakhan
Rated 06 Dec 2009
90
98th
The documentary-like style makes this the most effective melding of sci-fi and reality that I have ever seen in the genre. The scale and ambition are huge, especially for an African film. And it pulls it off, with not one famous star. It also bravely alludes to some of the biggest problems South Africa has faced and continues to face, like racism, oppression, violence and AIDS. The film holds up a mirror to human civilisation. And at the same time, it's a sci-fi geek's wet dream in terms of FX!
Rated 06 Dec 2009
okkervilOkkervil
Rated 14 Sep 2009
87
93rd
Blomkamp's masterful merging of sci-fi and action makes District 9 one of the finest sci-fi films for the last 20 years or so. The film feels fresh and original and the location of Johannesberg is inspirational and makes for a wonderful change rather than seeing New York or some such other American city in the shit! The script is good and the plot engaging and thought provoking, bar a few minor holes. Copley is simply fantastic as the films lead and the "Prawns" are works of art. Excellent.
Rated 14 Sep 2009
melvin_smifMelvin Smif
Rated 22 Aug 2009
90
94th
It boggles the mind how a movie made for $30 million can produce what many gigantic blockbusting titles fail to achieve. The acting was spot on, writing was gripping, and the action tight. We need to stay away from big studios more often apparently. Oh, and someone is kicking themselves for not giving this guy a chance on Halo, actually they likely lost thier job.
Rated 22 Aug 2009
doctor7doctor7
Rated 24 Aug 2009
84
81st
Blomkamp's style is absolutely superb and the special effects are certainly some of the best I have ever seen. Still I have a terrifying fear this will end up like Children of Men where it is unrelentingly praised despite having a few notable flaws. Some parts of the film are so corny they'd fit in a Saturday morning cartoon and the documentary style mashes somewhat with the story and can be a bit distracting. Still, this is an excellent sci-fi thriller and worth checking out.
Rated 24 Aug 2009
brandt64brandt64
Rated 16 Aug 2009
70
44th
Pretty overrated. They basically took "Alive in Joburg", made it longer, and then added an hour of action scenes. The documentary-style of filming does little to stand out from the pack of other shaky-camcorder action films, and it could have been used for a more immersive effect. The whole "alien xenophobia" thing is just a backdrop for a standard action story. The weapons, CGI, and action is pretty cool though, so basically it's just another popcorn blockbuster.
Rated 16 Aug 2009
charlieCharlie
Rated 23 Aug 2009
85
91st
That was one film! Original story (damn, I wish it was my idea), great action and mindblowing effects that doesn't feel like it at all. A real surprise and one of the best in 09 so far.
Rated 23 Aug 2009
sirstuckeySirStuckey
Rated 15 Aug 2009
100
99th
It's not often you walk out of a movie speechless. I honestly can not think of anything I disliked about this movie. It was one of the most original and well crafted sci-fi movies we've had in a long time. It's a deep movie that draws you in emotionally and yet is pretty hardcore on the action in the later half, which I find to be a rare trait. Watch it on a big screen if you can because it is worth it.
Rated 15 Aug 2009
beedubBeeDub
Rated 29 Jun 2016
88
74th
Solid mid-budget sci-fi/action film. The social commentary is as subtle as a brick to the face, but the creative filmmaking on display makes up for it.
Rated 29 Jun 2016
evranaevrana
Rated 19 Sep 2009
100
99th
This was my dream movie, I will be first to admit that it is not perfect but as someone who devotes a big chunk of his life to science and sci-fi the level of intellect in this movie was a bliss. I'm so happy that it was made and will have reached a wide audience. Thank you Peter Jackson for making it possible and I hope I can meet Neill Blomkamp someday, he feels like a kindred spirit.
Rated 19 Sep 2009
spunkieSpunkie
Rated 18 Aug 2009
70
84th
Plus 1 to the "had great potential but barely scratches the surface" list.
Rated 18 Aug 2009
naikounaikou
Rated 16 Aug 2009
60
60th
It's a decent enough movie if you forgive the heavy-handed attempts at being ironic, and get over the fact that the story is more hole than plot. Regardless, it's an enjoyable experience. I don't feel like I wasted my money watching it once, but I wouldn't care to dish out another $10 to see it again.
Rated 16 Aug 2009
omgfridgeomgfridge
Rated 15 Aug 2009
8
79th
Sure, it has all the flashy lights and gadgets that will impress any man and his dog, but there is a story here that deserves to be paid attention to. "District 9" is one of the most complete packages to be released on the big screen.
Rated 15 Aug 2009
anselmi86Anselmi86
Rated 27 Aug 2009
70
51st
Really kind of disappointed. As an action film, it definitely excels, and at least has an original concept. However, I desired much more of a social commentary and a stark message playing throughout by use of the realistic docudrama approach. Instead, the film seems to dissolve into an examination of what alien weapon kills people the coolest.
Rated 27 Aug 2009
thegreyfoxthegreyfox
Rated 10 Feb 2011
87
88th
Had no real expectation of this film as it seems to pass by without a great deal of hype on its launch. However, i am SO glad I saw it ... it is a tremendous film, with superb special effects, but effects you hardly notice, because they are seamlessley integrated into a great story. Copley is excellent as the enthusiastic news frontman eager to make an impression, but gets more than he bargained for. Not a unique story by any means but a novel, fresh and thought provoking film nonetheless
Rated 10 Feb 2011
nathan_sNathan S
Rated 17 Feb 2010
2
21st
Michael Bay... is that you? An endless series of close calls wrapped in big technology, abrasive editing, obvious themes, and banal emotions. It is an interesting novelty, but in the end that's all it is. I must say, though, that Sharlto Copley does an excellent job with the lead role.
Rated 17 Feb 2010
luna6ixLuna6ix
Rated 24 Dec 2009
88
95th
Every now an then I think the sci-fi genre has fallen to a point where it can't be redeemed anymore, but then a film like this comes out and renews my faith. I have no doubts that 2009 will go down in history as an important year in sci-fi--and thanks in part to this fantastic movie. If Blomkamp can pull off anything close to this good in the future I'll be impressed.
Rated 24 Dec 2009
martrynmartryn
Rated 15 Oct 2009
91
94th
This movie literally shocked me. Based off the trailers alone I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy it, but it's left me with this deep seated desire to see more. Neill Blomkamp is amazing with what he can do with under $10 million. And the last half hour of the movie contain some of the most intense action sequences I've ever seen. The pacing of the film, the acting all around... This movie is just solid, and a must see for Sci-Fi or Action movie fans.
Rated 15 Oct 2009
unccomp13unccomp13
Rated 29 Aug 2009
87
0th
The format of the movie was good, starting with a documentary style presentation and then transitioning to regular cinematics. The story was interesting enough to keep one watching. Even though its a sci-fi thriller it touches base on a lot of social issues affecting us today. The aliens and all the other special effects looked very realistic and the querky and funny character Wikus makes the movie very good.
Rated 29 Aug 2009
icebloxiceblox
Rated 25 Aug 2009
78
84th
'District 9' is brainier, but not grandiose (and that's a good thing), than your average alien movie. Seeing 'District 9', you get the feeling that this is something which is actually plausible - IF there were aliens, and IF they were to be stranded here in large numbers, this is more or less what will happen. This must also be the first "humans vs. aliens" movie, where I actually ended up rooting for the aliens.
Rated 25 Aug 2009
emtiltemtilt
Rated 20 Aug 2009
61
43rd
Decent, but not great. Could've been better. Plot holes abound, message is unbelievably heavy-handed and lacking in subtlety, and several problems detract from that message, including simplistic characters, action cliches, and inconsistent cinematography style. I also question the extreme anthropomorphization of the aliens. While perhaps it serves to make the comparison to our treatment of other human populations absurdly obvious, I think it would have been more interesting without it.
Rated 20 Aug 2009
stradivariusStradivarius
Rated 17 Aug 2009
60
24th
This plot has bigger holes than its cool alien weaponry could produce. The hamfisted attempt to make this tale into an apartheid allegory resulted in a nonsensical situation where aliens holding the key to interstellar travel are clumsily mistreated and killed for their comparatively modest weapons. How the Nigerians got into the compound and why they're allowed to stay is baffling, as is the fact that the aliens dont use their own weapons, and a million other questions muddle the mixture.
Rated 17 Aug 2009
martintellerMartinTeller
Rated 17 Aug 2009
70
35th
The effects are impressive and some of the social commentary is intriguing, but it's marred by poor filmmaking decisions. Never mind the veritable mountain of unanswered questions. The documentary style hurts a lot more than it helps. Blomkamp uses it to add a dimension of realism, but abandons it when it suits his purposes. And the allegorical nature of the film is extremely blunt, almost insultingly so at times. I didn't outright hate the movie, but it was pretty disappointing.
Rated 17 Aug 2009
derekstarDerekstar
Rated 15 Aug 2009
90
85th
The first 30 minutes, where the film adheres strictly to a documentary style, is slightly boring. I found myself saying "yes, we all get what you're saying here, move on." All of a sudden the movie shifts, and the documentary style is abruptly and jarringly abandoned. Luckily, at this point alien laser guns and explosions are introduced, which promptly re-captivated my interest. As with many science fiction movies, the ideas introduced here are much more interesting than the film itself.
Rated 15 Aug 2009
spikycactusSpikyCactus
Rated 23 Sep 2018
80
78th
Top badass moment? An alien spaceship’s satnav goes wrong and it ends up arriving over Johannesburg rather than Los Angeles. A great film, but sadly the script writers paint themselves into a corner and our heroes have to rely on Peter Jackson borrowing Gandalf’s magic wand and hiding it inside an alien gun, so they can escape “a suicide mission” by zapping people with lightning bolts. And District 9 has nearly 2 million inhabitants and no McDonalds? No cats, chainsaws or decapitations.
Rated 23 Sep 2018
walkearthwalkearth
Rated 19 Jul 2010
70
81st
The documentary part was really well made, helping much to the overall experience. Although a really strong first part of the film, the second one didn't shine that much.
Rated 19 Jul 2010
caimancaiman
Rated 25 Feb 2010
86
82nd
Refreshingly unique. Though the last act starts to veer in the direction of mindless action, the movie as a whole is far from mindless. I enjoyed the social/political allegory, and I appreciated the fact that I could not predict the plot. I did have some questions about the aliens and their motives (which, as well as we can assume, the characters know, but fail to inform the audience). But that's not a very big complaint since the movie as a whole was quite original and entertaining.
Rated 25 Feb 2010
jherman89Jherman89
Rated 20 Feb 2010
93
96th
It's extremley difficult to create a sophisticated, original work of science ficition in this day and age...That being said, District 9 delivers well beyond my expectations with stunning moral and global themes throughout its runtime. A powerful and visually enjoyable adventure. A must see...
Rated 20 Feb 2010
andaybandayb
Rated 17 Nov 2009
70
80th
quite the pleasant surprise, it quickly defines itself as the sci fi oeuvre of the year, by blowing the likes of salvation, star trek and transformers out of water. dabbling with politics and mixing comedy with realism, the movie gradually evolves into a gripping and a gritty action flick which would make Verhoeven proud. Could have been a gigantic hit if it was filmed in the heyday of the sci fi, still it manages to innovate. McG and Abrams can eat their hearts out, this is how it's done.
Rated 17 Nov 2009
wicheWiche
Rated 19 Sep 2009
95
99th
I was really amazed how good this film is! First I thought this would be another starship troopers like lock, load and turn your brains off film, but it isn't (or just a few scenes). The documentary is a clever and good way of explaining everything and keeping the pace up, the story is great and original, the cast is unknown but they performed great and the special effects were great. Amazingly good!
Rated 19 Sep 2009
cagedwisdomcagedwisdom
Rated 18 Sep 2009
75
65th
The acting is fabulous, the special effects are incredible, the alien design inventive and the plot brilliantly paced. It's socially and politically conscious as well. Despite all this I was left wanting, there's a certain undefinable conclusive factor that this film seems to lack. Very good, but not perfect.
Rated 18 Sep 2009
countyhellcounty_hell
Rated 03 Sep 2009
83
84th
I do not know how to describe the movie, in terms of telling someone to go see it. However, it was an extremely well-made film, and I would strong suggest seeing it. It alternates between documentary and balls-to-the-floor, over-the-top action, but always within the confines of the story itself. Interesting choice of locations with Johannesburg, since it really hammers home the themes of apartheid and racial intolerance. Sharlto Copley, as the lead, was exceptional.
Rated 03 Sep 2009
hellsditchhellsditch
Rated 29 Aug 2009
85
85th
Went in expecting to be wowed and was not disappointed -- a balls-to-the-wall action flick that is pretty much unlike any other one I've ever seen in its seemless blending of storytelling styles and balance of smarts and gory fun. Copley is fantastic in the role of the morally challenged field op.; at times you will laugh at him, hate him, and cheer him on as if your life depended on it. No small feat. The creatures are all animated well -- enough to draw real emotion towards the film's climax.
Rated 29 Aug 2009
theficionadotheficionado
Rated 26 Aug 2009
63
61st
Not as thorny as people are saying, but the race allegory, fortunately, is played pretty loose -- it works in the service of the universe depicted, rather the other way around. Cartoon villains aside (evil corporate-state/mystical black gangsters... really?), this is a nice, tightly paced rumination on the politics of xenophobia and intolerance, their consequences on personal lives, and the inability of the media to parse those subjects meaningfully. Plus you gotta love the splatter.
Rated 26 Aug 2009
saucyjacksaucyjack
Rated 22 Aug 2009
92
94th
Excellent first feature film effort from Blomkamp effortlessly balances science fiction, action, and drama. A thought-provoking tale where the humans are the enemy with many references to horror films past including The Fly ('86) and Jackson's Dead-Alive. Leaves you with much to chew on once you leave the theatre. Includes one of the most heartbreakingly amazing performances of the year by first time actor Copley and one of the best films of the year.
Rated 22 Aug 2009
tripwyreTripwyre
Rated 21 Aug 2009
92
93rd
A smart, exhilarating sci-fi thrill ride. The film offers a much more thought-provoking take on the race issue than something like Crash, and those accusing it of being racist are misreading satire (what becomes of Wikus' replacement drives this point home). Copley gives a strong performance, but his animated co-star steals the show. The prawns look convincing, and Blomkamp milks the effects budget for all its worth. Like Moon, a little goes a long way in good hands. A remarkable debut.
Rated 21 Aug 2009
pickpocketPickpocket
Rated 19 Aug 2009
6
55th
Classic example of a "turn your brain off and enjoy" movie. The plot holes are frustrating considering how great this movie could've been. And the most original movie in years? Come on, watch more movies before proclaiming that people. Loved the special effects and the no name cast. The Iron Man esque part was pretty cool too.
Rated 19 Aug 2009
otakatotakat
Rated 18 Aug 2009
73
76th
At first, District 9 immerses you with its gripping, socially relevant story and its near-perfect visuals. The documentary style makes you feel as though this movie's characters and events are real. As the story progresses and the movie departs from the short film, you begin to notice the fundamental flaw of the film. The movie is littered with plot holes, covered with them in fact. First you question the reasoning behind plot devices, then you realize that the whole film doesn't make any sense.
Rated 18 Aug 2009
ytadelYtadel
Rated 15 Aug 2009
8
93rd
This movie is something we rarely see (a great sci-fi action film with brains) and something we almost never see nowadays (a true original). Neill Blomkamp is an exciting new talent.
Rated 15 Aug 2009
quintonjaminQuintonjamin
Rated 09 Sep 2020
90
90th
I was surprised at how great this was. It's not just a great sci-fi action film, though it is that. It also has some real heart. I thought the design of the Prawns was really cool and I can't wait if Blomkamp ever decides to do a sequel.
Rated 09 Sep 2020
dakota99Dakota99
Rated 29 Aug 2019
9
95th
I've seen this about 3 times now and it continually gets better each time. I'm not quite sure how Blomkamp pulled this off for his first ever feature length film. While I know some people will lend to the emotional stuff, which I'll agree is very good, personally I enjoy the visuals, atmosphere, and Copley's performance the most of all. Also while I'm not absolutely in love with the ending, because it leaves it open ended, I would be optimistic to see another one of these.
Rated 29 Aug 2019
corbadCorbad
Rated 23 Nov 2016
80
79th
A compelling and fast-paced (sometimes too fast-paced) story is propelled by a phenomenal performance from Sharlto Copley, whose story arc starkly outshines attempts at other developments.
Rated 23 Nov 2016
ricRic
Rated 08 Nov 2014
90
93rd
Finally some aliens that feels really out-worldly and still intelligent!
Rated 08 Nov 2014
untrustableuntrustable
Rated 30 Sep 2014
95
94th
A movie about how much racism sucks, even if the race is giant grasshopper things.
Rated 30 Sep 2014
orangeamelOrangeAmel
Rated 05 Dec 2013
82
78th
A unique approach regarding alien movies. We are used to think they are a threat, but they can be lost in space as much as we are. I think this movie should be remembered.A plus for an uncommon filming technique (as a paradocumentary). The main guy is kind of stupid at the beginning, but at the end a viewer is attached to him as well as to the main alien hero. I like the ending. It's so sad ;_; but better than a happy one. And besides - we don't know the actual ending of the story, so who knows?
Rated 05 Dec 2013
chroniclerChronicler
Rated 19 Oct 2013
98
71st
An alien race lands in Johannesburg S.A. but cannot leave because their ship is damaged. People took this event not very well and the aliens are cordoned off in a ghetto in the immediate vicinity of their stricken ship. It is in this context that a government agent(who is somewhat racist towards these aliens(as are many people) is exposed to an alien substance which changes him and makes him reconsider his previous attitudes towards the aliens. worth checking out.
Rated 19 Oct 2013
paxtonPaxton
Rated 29 Sep 2013
79
75th
This was the first film that really matched the feeling I had while reading Kafka's The Metamorphosis. That feeling is ickiness. The only one I've seen since that has matched it was Abduction where they tried to morph that werewolf kid into an action star.
Rated 29 Sep 2013
hobbitninjaHobbitNinja
Rated 30 Aug 2013
95
86th
Neil Blomkamp really outdoes himself here, and Sharlto Copely's performance is second to none. Excellent sci-fi-action-drama set to recognizable and thought provoking themes. Superbly executed. One of my favorites.
Rated 30 Aug 2013
minorsageMinorsage
Rated 26 Jan 2012
80
89th
Loved this. Great scifi movie. Plot, effects, distinctiveness - it has it all.
Rated 26 Jan 2012
leonardisLeonardis
Rated 19 Sep 2011
97
94th
District 9 deserves all of the high praise it gets! After going back to watch it yet again, I observed Neill Blomkamp's solid direction along with a very well written and executed screenplay! Even manages to get quite emotional. Everything looks good and it's got plenty of eye candy as well. Copley is really good in this. Worth a watch if you have not seen it yet.
Rated 19 Sep 2011
kramyessevKramYessev
Rated 17 Sep 2011
83
94th
Still as fantastic as the first hundred times I saw it. Expertly done on every level, even though I agree that the film goes off the rails slighlty during the last quarter. It's good to see a strong theme such as xenophobia done right in this modern age.
Rated 17 Sep 2011
anomalyAnomaly
Rated 18 Apr 2011
79
72nd
Does some pretty great things with its low budget. Relies a bit too much on coincidences and isn't as horrific as it should be, but otherwise it strikes a nice balance and moves along pleasantly. Copley is great in his role, amazing he didn't even think of acting before.
Rated 18 Apr 2011
lady_moeLady Moe
Rated 19 Jan 2011
76
38th
A very unique take on the subject of Human/Alien contact.
Rated 19 Jan 2011
sieghardtSieghardt
Rated 04 Dec 2010
90
95th
Takes inspiration from a selection of sources as varied as japanese mecha anime to real world race issues and blends them together into a cohesive and compelling story.
Rated 04 Dec 2010
gorejunkygorejunky
Rated 19 Aug 2010
100
92nd
Wonderfully creative story that has just about everything a sci-fi fan could want. The alien effects are fabulous as is the cinematography. Great performances too! Very highly recommended.
Rated 19 Aug 2010
amerigoamerigo
Rated 15 Jul 2010
85
88th
A satisfying if slightly formulaic big budget epic that re-invisions the problem of racial and xenophobic hatred culminating with a rather endearing conclusion. The execution is masterful and creates a compelling story--but one we've heard a million times before.
Rated 15 Jul 2010
sailorripleySailorRipley
Rated 29 Mar 2010
98
97th
Neill Blomkamp's serious, wonderfully realized sci-fi saga is an almost perfect film and top entertainment. The world and the drama unfolding seems utterly real, it has great action sequences and the visuals are top. Starting out as a mockumentary, the film slowly evolves to a smart narrative level and never lets go, ending on a bittersweet note that punctuates everything that came before. Blomkamp is a true talent to watch, can't wait to see what he does next. Don't be a fool, run and get this.
Rated 29 Mar 2010
cowmanCowman
Rated 08 Jan 2010
85
96th
It's like 3 movies in one, but all of them are good.
Rated 08 Jan 2010
sophiesophie
Rated 29 Dec 2009
90
95th
Great movie, I did not expect to like it just this much but I was wrong. Good story, awesome effects and those cute aliens!
Rated 29 Dec 2009
spookeyspookey
Rated 03 Dec 2009
92
95th
Managed to entertain me because of the silly Wikus vd Merwe, his imaginable bunch of employees and the newish way they were introduced together with the story/background. You stay to see the ignorant but honest Wikus transform repent, reform and rescue. The Aliens being like a minority is fresh too, but narratively they are but a thin layer. The way you want a sequal to this movie while it's so unappropriate and impossible to work is a testament to how good it is... I hope.
Rated 03 Dec 2009
duderDuder
Rated 11 Nov 2009
80
95th
Really great watch. The acting of Copley is so good you can't believe it's his first time.. Absolutely outstanding.. The plot has a few glitches but the movie is so good that you just simply ignore them. Blomkamp was in my radar for a long time and I'm so happy he didn't leave me disappointed. I can't wait for his next movie..
Rated 11 Nov 2009
launchLaunch
Rated 02 Oct 2009
88
89th
Very original and action-filled are the best ways to describe this sci-fi gem, yes there are plotholes but what movies don't have some? One of the best of '09 in my opinion although it does start to tail off towards the second half of the film and become a generic action movie with some amazing visuals. Hell of a debut for Neill Blomkamp.
Rated 02 Oct 2009
fredericg54frederic_g54
Rated 22 Sep 2009
8
78th
I have to disagree with one of my kumpels who thinks it's best to turn off your brain and enjoy, that would've ruined the experience. I liked the film and the social commentary it brings to bear. I understand the budget was very low but I still applaud Blomkamp for pulling all the stops. Definitely see it, you might find yourself cheering for the aliens like I did.
Rated 22 Sep 2009
td888td888
Rated 09 Sep 2009
90
95th
Can't wait for District 10. Haven't enjoyed a movie like this for years.
Rated 09 Sep 2009
citizenxCitizenX
Rated 09 Sep 2009
95
99th
the best scifi movie i've ever seen, one of the best movies ever actually, leaves you speechless most of the time, the CGI isnt just good, its stunning
Rated 09 Sep 2009
crayonCRAYON
Rated 05 Sep 2009
91
90th
What an interesting movie. The acting was superb, bad acting would have killed the mockumentary sections, but they were quite good. The movie transitions in and out of the documentary style smoothly, which is quite amazing. One negative I will mention about District 9 is its sense of scale. They mention ~1 million aliens being in the district, but you see about 50.
Rated 05 Sep 2009
kavuKavu
Rated 28 Aug 2009
92
97th
Original story, cool action, amazing special effects, a good message. This movie has it all. It's very nice to see an action movie not tampered with by the big studios.
Rated 28 Aug 2009
lrampartllrampartl
Rated 16 Aug 2009
47
25th
The fact that the film centered around a slapstick character killed any chance of me taking it seriously. There were some really neat parts, but then, Captain Oops would pop up again. The plot holes didn't help: Why didn't the aliens use their superior weaponry to fuck shit up? Why didn't any of their people come looking for them? Why did the aliens have human names? I think the idea was great, but too much of it was the same old stuff. Great CGI, though.
Rated 16 Aug 2009
rocketluccoRocketlucco
Rated 14 Aug 2009
80
80th
Overall Enjoyment: 30/40, Plot/Themes: 20/20, Cinematography/Direction: 15/20, Acting/Writing: 15/20 This movie was fantastic. Starts off like a psuedo-documentary and builds into a great narrative and awesome action movie. Some of the best special effects and realistic feeling battles I've seen in a long time. Very fun and engaging experience
Rated 14 Aug 2009
pilgermannpilgermann
Rated 13 Aug 2009
85
87th
What starts as a faux documentary gradually (and thankfully) becomes a mostly straight forward narrative loaded with inhumanity and mayhem. It may be lacking in subtlety, but it's not mindless (shades of Apartheid and other dehumanizing acts). It's a superb action film that drew me in on an emotional level in a way that few action films do. Deserves to overshadow the big budget crap released this summer.
Rated 13 Aug 2009
anilscnanilscn
Rated 12 Aug 2022
35
23rd
worst michael bay movie, except immigrant-anti racist alegory
Rated 12 Aug 2022
adornmentadornment
Rated 20 Mar 2019
82
84th
Neill Blomkamp has never had an ear for dialogue, so some important scenes break up because of that. District 9, however, is an original take on the alien invasion with heartfelt characters and excellent control over tension.
Rated 20 Mar 2019
yoshinarutoYoshinaruto
Rated 01 Jan 2019
75
83rd
Unique, interesting, and has a decent pace once things get started. I’m glad I revisited this after initially turning it off due to me not being in the mood for found footage.
Rated 01 Jan 2019
vv238vv238
Rated 21 Sep 2018
86
92nd
I'm not a fan of the style but the substance is very good. It's plot is both believable and relevant to many periods in history without being too heavy handed. It has the plot, character, and violent action that I love all tied into one.
Rated 21 Sep 2018
luordluord
Rated 03 Aug 2017
81
89th
The direction is good enough, the action set pieces are great and Copley's performance is awesome. The social commentary is a bit on the nose, but palatable.
Rated 03 Aug 2017
gorillanoshGorillaNosh
Rated 11 Jan 2017
90
59th
I'm sympathetic to spacecrabs... If this is a smart allegory on the situation in south Africa then I might have totally missed that... The action, effects and characters pull you along for the ride, ain't nobody got time for what the director be slyly insinuatin'! Laser rifles! Spacecrabs! Catfood!
Rated 11 Jan 2017
darkcloudDarkCloud
Rated 07 Oct 2016
87
75th
Solid acting. Just for the acting and the make-believe world it creates.
Rated 07 Oct 2016
wjswitzerwjswitzer
Rated 05 Jun 2016
99
92nd
Super film exploration of race and xenophobia. As a simple man is embroiled, he is forced to confront how it would feel if he were one of the feared and hated outsiders.
Rated 05 Jun 2016
wulfstanleeWulfstanLee
Rated 26 Oct 2015
90
83rd
Excellent. I saw Elysium first, and the cinematography here (the found-footage/documentary style) is a much better fit with the (admittedly) heavy-handed but poignant allegory than the big-budget effects in Elysium. Great plotting, too, starting off with a lighter and more comedic first act before changing course and moving on to the traditional sci-fi action and some impactful body horror. Copley's acting is stellar, and his character acts believably throughout the film.
Rated 26 Oct 2015
lisa_iilisa-
Rated 14 Jun 2015
2
11th
obvious apartheid allegory aside, it could also be a response to sci-fi and fantasy's tendency to have aliens so repulsive, they must be killed merely for existing. that peter jackson produced only adds to the irony. anyway, any good ideas were completely ruined by the execution. every theme was spelled out in capital letters, the alien design was incredibly unimaginative, and by the end it was just a series of action scenes. actually having peter produce was probably neill's worst decision.
Rated 14 Jun 2015
vorpalkittenVorpalKitten
Rated 04 Jun 2015
100
98th
Really entertaining movie, though the protagonist is a bit too much of a dipshit. Awesome first outing from Blomkamp.
Rated 04 Jun 2015
ryan_luedersRyan Lueders
Rated 26 Feb 2015
91
89th
I'd give this district a 9 and not a 10. It's nearly perfect but just misses the mark. This movie starts off really interesting with a documentary-style opening. It also is an alien movie not set in New York or Washington D.C. It's actually in South Africa. This film has some of the best computer animation I've ever seen. It all looks really real. The humor is really spot on and Neill Blomkamps direction is just gorgeous...
Rated 26 Feb 2015
bjnbjn
Rated 11 Oct 2014
90
95th
Absolutely love the transition from mockumentary to action
Rated 11 Oct 2014
caramlefloatcaramlefloat
Rated 03 Jul 2014
95
91st
It was intense from the very beginning. You wonder, what is going on? What happened to the agent? Tell me already!! The movie is also filmed in a documentary style, with interviews and "real" footage from the field, offered a unique take on the film. Of course, humanizing the aliens made the film all the more interesting to watch.
Rated 03 Jul 2014
age_jellemaAge Jellema
Rated 04 May 2014
80
83rd
The first sci-fi i've seen that I could believe it wasn't sci-fi. Very original, liked the Johannesburg setting to.
Rated 04 May 2014
meltemcilikmeltemcilik
Rated 03 Jan 2014
68
58th
very good start to a sci-fi film that then badly shifts cadence into an action film. :((
Rated 03 Jan 2014
mcgirthyMcGirthy
Rated 12 Nov 2013
100
66th
I shoot a pig
Rated 12 Nov 2013
nick-hamdenNick Hamden
Rated 06 Aug 2013
80
77th
A great first movie from Blomkamp. Pretty down right amazing at that. Shit. I hope Elysium is this good a well.
Rated 06 Aug 2013
bdjnkbdjnk
Rated 02 Aug 2013
98
98th
It's about humanity, with Wikus the witless bureaucrat drone as your guide. It's about politics, and crime, and the choices we all make. Brilliant doesn't do it justice. This is masterful artistry at its most magnificent.
Rated 02 Aug 2013
debaser_iiDebaser
Rated 25 Apr 2013
90
55th
Great acting. Great immersion of fake cgi aliens and humans on screen. Good Action. No unnecessary twist. Great film.
Rated 25 Apr 2013
jcritickerkjcritickerk
Rated 15 Apr 2013
96
95th
Truly awesome film. Excellent acting, striking mirrors to reality.
Rated 15 Apr 2013
nbd_rabNBD Rab
Rated 10 Mar 2013
75
46th
An interesting deviation from the typical alien film, with an engaging enough story and some inspired design. The documentary format of the first portion of the film stands out. The action scenes aren't as much of a draw, but they are competently constructed.
Rated 10 Mar 2013
nepetaNepeta
Rated 20 Jan 2013
45
13th
Starts out as a decent mockumentary however as the film proceeds it falls further away from the moniker of intelligentish, little sci-fi and further in to the moniker of big, dumb action film. This makes the Apartheid comparisons seem insincere, the main character is so un-likeable I couldn't care less about the run of the mill gun fights and the film is full of plot holes and problems.
Rated 20 Jan 2013
alex_wsAlex WS
Rated 19 Jan 2013
99
98th
Subjective narrative, yet extremely gripping. FANTASTICO!
Rated 19 Jan 2013
theescapistTheEscapist
Rated 12 Jan 2013
90
98th
Very interesting and refreshing film. Visually amazing and I really liked the soundtrack as well. Plot kept me interested until (and after) the very end, definitely worth seeing!
Rated 12 Jan 2013
msdstcmsdstc
Rated 25 Dec 2012
82
83rd
Forgotten, but still good.
Rated 25 Dec 2012
magdabagmagdabag
Rated 25 Nov 2012
96
97th
This movie was awesome! This is probably one of my favorite movies EVER! I think this movie deserves all of the credit it got. Neill Blomkamp did a phenomenal job with this movie. As well as the actors. The visual affects were great. I don't really have any complaints with this movie. Very well done. :)
Rated 25 Nov 2012
b2B.2
Rated 31 Oct 2012
68
81st
Acting, I thought was rather poor (Copley aside who was quite good). Also the supporting characters are ridiculously one dimensional and there are a few too many coincidences. Despite all that it did manage to suck me into its world. The apartheid allegory worked well, despite being very blunt at times. With only a meager budget it still manages to be a pretty good sci-fi movie, for which credit must be given to Blomkamp (though he does make some rather odd directorial choices).
Rated 31 Oct 2012
gillsoloGillSolo
Rated 25 Aug 2012
90
90th
The visual effects make me drool...they are about the best out there, let alone for sci-fi. The ship always looks like a real thing that has or does exist. The Prawn weapons are just, oh my god words cannot describe their sheer awesomness...and the Prawn aliens themselves look pretty impressive. Needless to say, this is one of the best sci-fi movies ever made and for the love of sci-fi cinema they need to do something along the same lines or at least a sequel.
Rated 25 Aug 2012

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