The Best Films of the 2000s and more.
Children of Men (2006)
Starring: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Country: UK, USA
Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama
When I first saw Children in the theater a few years ago, it had such a powerful impact on me. I’ve held off on watching it again partly because I didn’t want to relive the feeling of getting kicked in the stomach, and partly because I didn’t want to ruin its effect by watching it too often. I finally made my way to a second go at it.
It definitely didn’t grab ahold of me quite as it did before. I found myself more intrigued by the technicality of the shots, the misc-en-scene than the actual content. When I did pay attention to the dialogue, I found it very contrite, almost forceful: “They’re taking them to refugee camps,” Michael Caine says to his old friend Clive Owen as if he’s been completely oblivious to what’s been happening in the world he’s been living in for eighteen years.
It’s not without its faults, but Cuarón directs the hell out of it. If that final scene doesn’t make you panic or make you cry, you, sir or madam, are probably an android.
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about 2 months ago
I thought this film was excellent. Really didn’t know what to expect but Cuaron showed he has ability.
about 2 months ago
Dan – he’s quite the versatile director. He’s got quite a few things in development. I’m curious to see what comes next.
about 2 months ago
I got that same kick in the stomach you did, but unlike you I wanted to see it again so soon to catch everything I’d missed, I went back the next night with someone else. I’ve seen it multiple time since the theater and still love it. It’s in my Top 5.
about 2 months ago
Rachel – I’ve seen the film I think three times now… and I always walk away with tears in my eyes and lack of air in my lungs. Cuaron delivers.
about 2 months ago
The staircase scene is one of the best displays of humanity captured in fictional cinema.
about 2 months ago
Ruben – it’s one of the few times in my memory that I literally couldn’t breathe while watching it.