"Cargo" (Engler, 2009)

German - Subtitled

As breathtaking as it is substantial, German film Cargo is what good science fiction should be: compelling, artistic and effective. One of the film's many strengths is its hypnotic quality. From the opening scenes of an alluring foliage-laden planet that characters hope to settle in lieu of an uninhabitable Earth, viewers are pulled into a world of meticulously-crafted sights and sounds.

The story of Dr. Laura Portmann (Anna-Katharina Schwabroh) soon unfolds, and her journey as a medic on cargo ship "Kassandra" quickly turns mysterious when it becomes clear she's not the only one awake during her lonely shift. The plot increases in complexity as details are revealed, but its not what happens that gives the film its power. It's the way the discoveries are revealed.

The film makes use of great visual effects, especially when compared to the low budget the movie was made on. Although at points, the effects appear a little unfinished, this only marginal, and only spotted if you're actually looking for them. The film clearly takes influence from the "Alien" series through the visuals, and it works very well, and contrasts well with theme of "Natural and Machine" which is seen through the movie when comparing the planet Rhea to the Kassandra.

There is great character creation in this film. As a viewer, you are never sure who can be trusted, and if you think you've made your mind up, 10 minutes later your entire perspective will have changed. Actor of the movie for me has to go to Martin Rapold, who plays the TSA agent Samuel Decker.

Overall, a very compelling and involving movie, that keeps you on the edge of your seat for its entire length. Definitely recommended.

Final Rating: 3.5/5

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4u_ekLrWsA