Super 8

Directed By: J.J. Abrams
Written By: J.J. Abrams
Starring: Kyle Chandler, Ron Eldard, Elle Fanning, Joel Courtney and Riley Griffiths
Rated: PG-13

MY RATING: A-

It was refreshing to see an original, creative story.

Super 8 follows a group of kids who are using their summer vacation to make a zombie movie to enter into a film festival.  Each child has their role behind the super 8 movie camera and in front of it.  While shooting a scene for their film they witness a train crash and start to question what's going on in their town.  Soon after, strange things start happening and it becomes clear that they are dealing with something out of this world. 

This film has a lot, suspense, drama, comedy, action and even a little romance.  It does not disappoint.  I could not believe that for the majority of the child actors this was their first film.  These kids were great!  J.J. Abrams was able to pull such natural, authentic performances out of them.  He also did a great job creating childhood nostalgia.  You find yourself back at a youthful time and can't help but to feel what these kids feel.  J.J. Abrams is brilliant! 
I was a little disappointed by the alien but just a tiny bit.  It was pretty good but not vicious enough for me.  Then again how scary can it be in a PG-13 movie?
Super 8 is like a cross between "The Goonies," "E.T." and "Signs."  The beginning is "The Goonies," the middle is "Signs" and the end is "E.T."
So if you're looking for a great alien film that will make you laugh, hold your breath, gasp, jump out of your seat and even cry then this is the movie to see. 

(Note to Parents: This film is not for children under 13, there is a lot of profanity.) 

I definitely say see it, see it!