Based on a novel, “I Am Number Four” is a teen action science fiction film that might be identical with “Twilight”, except that we’re not talking about vampires we’re talking about aliens.
In my childhood days, aliens are supposed to have deformed bodies, numerous eyes, extended parts and, in most cases, inaudible languages. But in this film, “I Am Number Four” shows aliens as well-fed, well-trained human figure with mystic powers. I reckon they are attempting to revolutionize the people’s perspective on aliens like “Twilight” did with vampires – except of running away from the fangs they come straight towards it.
Like “Twilight”, the main character is in High School named John Smith (a.k.a. Number Four), an alien that came from Planet Lorien. Their planet is destroyed and their being hunted down by another race for no particular reason. (The story says it’s not for colonial reason, what then . . . for fun?). There are nine of them in total. Number one, two and three are dead. Who’s next? Go figure.
In order to protect them, “aliens” have babysitters (a.k.a. Guardians), which is ironic since these babysitters don’t have any powers except knowing hand-to-hand combats and having a piece of glowing dagger. They can’t fly, run fast or lift a refrigerator. How can these “babysitters” compete with villains who have laser guns, ginarmous winged beasts and an uncommonly sense of smelling?
John and his babysitter, Henri, don’t stay for long. They move from place to place to avoid being tracked down. (Sounds like the Cullen family.) At the recent time, they reach Paradise, Ohio and John starts to go to school. Incidentally, John meets Sarah, his schoolmate, and soon they are hooked to each other. (For reference, see Bella and Edward relationship.) Again, John and Henri should move to another place but John is already attached to Sarah that he stays and so does Henri. Later, the hunting-for-fun predators find John and what follows are a series of chase.
(Why do girls always get the heroes in trouble? Another topic for a blog post.)
Dianna Agron plays the character of Sarah. You might recognize her from “Glee” TV series as Quinn Fabray. She is good but it’s disappointing to see that she plays the same character as glee: gentle with a soothing voice. I was hoping to see her beyond “Glee”, maybe a rebellious teenager who doesn’t hesitate to kick ass.
Another reason that separates this film from the “Twilight” is the presence of a sidekick. Sam, who fancies astronomy, helps John to find an extraordinary rock and also for the legacy of his Father, who went missing years ago. Sam suspects he is abducted by the persons involved with John. You can very well say that it’s “Payback time”.
The film stays low for the rest of the time until the last twenty minutes. The clash is entertaining. During the fight, they are also joined by a sexy female Number Six. Together they turn their enemies to dust, literally.
The novel is planned for a six-book series, with the third book expected to be released on August 2012. There is no news for a sequel but the first film grossed high. Readers say “The Rise of Nine”, the second book, is more action-packed – that’s more like it.
However, I don’t see the need you should watch this film. It’s averagely written. It’s a typical sci-fi action where all you look forward is the visual effects rather than the story.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
hmm i should have watched it but then again after reading this maybe not. welcome back
That girl is so beautiful! 😳
Actually she is. You’d probably fall in love to her if you watch Glee.
I thought the movie was pretty slow, but very romantic.
thanks for the review,..saves the time.
Great review, good sir!