Here’s how to tell a sci-fi movie or tv episode has a low budget: the enemy is invisible. To “prove” to the viewer the enemy is there, you’ll have multiple shots from its point of view, usually with heavy post-processing and distorted sound effects. In the right hands (think “Predator”) it’s an effective tactic, especially if at some point you’re going to drop the invisibility and show the monster. In the wrong hands, well…ever seen the series finale of “M.A.N.T.I.S.”, where the proud black superhero is killed by a freaking invisible dinosaur?
“The Darkest Hour” probably did not have that high a budget, but it certainly looks highly entertaining. The plot is that energy aliens that look like something out of “The Next Generation” go around, suck up electricity, destroy buildings, and eat people kind of the same way the guns in “Mars Attacks” dissolve human flesh. This conveniently removes the need for any extras, since they all get eaten in, like, ten minutes, another budget saver, although it’s a little disconcerting that it’s a fad in SF movies lately to kill all of humanity in the plot to save a few bucks.
On the other hand, the money all went to the CGI, which looks good. I just find myself wondering who pitched “It’s ‘Skyline’ meets ‘Predator’!” to Summit. Trailer after the jump…
Please, please, please let there be an invisible alien fight where stuff just gets knocked over.
[ via the cheese experts at First Showing ]