In January, Bad Robot films revealed that they had already filmed their newest science fiction film, “10 Cloverfield Lane.” This came as a surprising shock to movie fans, who had been clamoring for a sequel to the 2008 monster film “Cloverfield” for years.
The trailer featured Mary Elizabeth Winstead trapped in a bunker with John Goodman, while a mysterious force had destroyed the outside world, or so it seemed. This led to many fans speculating that the monster from the first film had defeated the military and was destroying the world.
The film is a science fiction masterpiece, and the most original sci-fi film since “District 9.” Goodman delivered a terrifying performance. He was the most chilling character since Javier Bardem’s Anton Chigurh in “No Country For Old Men.” Winstead is equally as good playing main character Michelle, and portrays her as an intelligent, resourceful woman as opposed to the typical damsel in distress. Finally, John Gallagher Jr. is terrific as Emmett. He provides much-needed comic relief during the most intense scenes.
The film is a terrific example of what a great script can do.
The film is set in one location, but it never drags. The performances are so strong, and the script is terrific that your eyes are glued to the screen from start to finish. The veil of secrecy that has surrounded this movie only adds to the experience, as you are constantly wondering what is happening in the world outside that bunker.
10 Cloverfield Lane is not only the best movie of 2016—so far—but one of the best films of the decade.
–Andy Foreman
