Nacho Vigalondo’s EXTRATERRESTRIAL Review

Extraterrestrial is equally as unique, and employs some of the same confined story with character driven performances. The film has a small scope on many levels, but the messaging behind it is very powerful. one aspect that is small, is the cast. What I love about Vigalondo, is that he is really able to do so much with such a minimalist touch. I am a big believer that less is more, and it is not imperative for a director to show everything. Vigalondo is the master of teasing the audience, and I love him for it. The film. stars Michelle Jenner, Carlos Areces, Julián Villagrán, Raúl Cimas, and Miguel Noguera.

Waking up in bed after a one-night stand with a beautiful girl is awkward enough, but waking up to a beautiful girl and realizing there is a giant space craft hovering above the city must be terrifying. That is exactly what happens in Extraterrestrial. The story follows Julio (Villagran) and Julia (Jenner) as they awake from a night of fun only to realize that a UFO has taken up residence in the sky above the city. The phones, TV and Internet are down, and the streets are empty. According to Julia’s next door neighbor Angel (Areces), everyone has been evacuated from the city. 

It soon becomes very evident that Angel has a major crush on Julia, and stayed to win her affection. He is obviously upset when he finds Julio. Things get even stranger when Julia’s boyfriend Carlos (Cimas) shows up unexpectedly to Julio and Angel. Julio and Julia are both forced to lie to Angel and Carlos. Lies compound lies and Extraterrestrial shifts away from sci-fi and becomes more of a romantic comedy with plenty of errors. Watch the film to see how things pan out for yourself.

The performances are superb throughout Extraterrestrial. Audiences will be able to relate to each of the characters and will definitely fall in love with Jenner’s Julia. The chemistry between Villagran and Jenner is pretty intense, so great casting. I was surprised with the overall tone of the film. I was expecting and hoping for a film similar to TimeCrimes, but this was definitely a lot lighter fare. This is not a shot at the film, but is something that some fans may have issues with. My main gripe is that the film leaves a lot of questions unanswered. I think that too many films tie the ending up in a pretty package that everyone can digest, Vigalondo is good at telling a lot while giving away nothing.

Extraterrestrial is the most unique sci-fi film that I have ever seen, and is worth watching. This is the perfect movie to take your significant other to see in theaters. If you have issues with subtitles, the pacing and story will keep your interest. Check it out in theaters if it is playing in a theater near you!