ARRIVAL (2016) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 95 – REEL CHAT 69.0

Reel Chat

Welcome to Episode 69 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return in October 2017. This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

2016’s “Arrival” is a rarity in modern cinema; an original idea contained within the oft-examined premise of what happens when beings from another world visit Earth. “Arrival” quickly shifts expectations, grounding the approach with well researched and rational approaches to the potential phenomena, and weaves an intelligent mystery through its story that genuinely surprises and strikes an affecting tone. With a protagonist using science and the bounty of the mind rather than muscular bravery and brute force when facing the remarkable events, we are treated to notable realism. “Arrival” is science fiction sustenance for the brain, but it does not starve the heart, achieving a level of emotional resonance often missing from impressive exercises in sci-fi marvel. But is it too cold? And is it just too damn serious in a world starving for some joyful escapism?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is long running Reel Chat stalwart Andrew McCaskill, funny man Matt O’Neill and the one and only Penny Jelly. Join the team as they discuss Amy Adams and the film’s cast, the work and career trajectory of director Denis Villeneuve, Ted Chiang’s original short story – “Story Of Your Life”, Jóhann Jóhannsson’s original score, the outstanding cinematography and production design, as well as discussion on the film’s two most popular characters – Abbott and Costello!

So does “Arrival” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 95 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND