Super 8

Super 8 (2011), written and directed by J.J. Abrams, is nothing short of Spielberg for a new generation. Set in the summer of 1979, Super 8 follows the story of a group of middle school friends caught up in a government investigation/ mystery when they witness a train crash while making a movie. As people in the town of Lillian, Ohio start to disappear, the kids follow the strange occurrences while Joe’s father, Deputy Lamb, is hot on the tail of the Air Force trying to keep whatever was in the train a secret. A surprisingly heartwarming movie in the end, Super 8 manages to combine trademark J.J. Abrams science fiction and coming-of-age elements with just the right amount of nostalgia and emotional draw to really hook you in.

Overall, Abrams utilizes many of his trademark features in this late 70s adventure to make it feel real, while also creating a sense of nostalgia. The setting is perfect utilized; a small town community, Super 8 cameras, walkie-talkies, and expressions such as, “that was so mint!” creates nostalgia of childhood without creating a huge generational gap for the audience (well, some of us anyway.) Abrams’ signature lens flare adds to the overall tone of the film, just a little something extra to the otherwise potentially bland backdrop of the 70s. Coupled with some sweeping jib and rising aerial shots, the cinematography was perfect for the suspense as well as personal connection to the story. The score by Michael Giacchino, however, is what really creates the tone for the film, and sets it apart from many others. It aids in the mystery and emotional timing so seamlessly, yet also stands out so beautifully all on its own.

At times the plot seems basic and recognizable, but Abrams created it as a homage to Spielberg; elements reminiscent of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and E.T. One of wonder, excitement, and emotion. Especially with Spielberg as a producer, these similarities are impossible to ignore, but taken separately, don’t detract from the film as a whole. It captures the imaginative spirit of youth that made E.T. so intriguing, while also including some of the most subtle and realistically hilarious portrayals of middle schoolers I've ever seen. Ultimately about the inescapable truths of life, loss and acceptance, Super 8 takes the best of its Spielberg-ian predecessors to create a beautifully fun and well developed take on sci-fi in small town America.