Nowadays, there are so many sci-fi movies that are so overwhelmed with graphics and action suspense that the stories are dismal. I rather like those kind of movies, but its always good to have one that is set apart from the rest... with strong acting, strong story line, and no clichés or stereotyped characters.

In fact, The Arrival is about as far from stereotype as possible. There are no nationwide manhunts or overly elaborate schemes once he holds the truth; the bad guys deal with it their own way. Charlie Sheen isn't some muscle-ridden superhero that escapes death-defying stunt after death defying-stunt, although there are a few parts. The movies isn't filled with giant explosions or massive shootouts...

I have always like conspiracy movies, especially ones involving aliens. The aliens in The Arrival - and yes, they do actually show the aliens - are pretty cool looking, and fairly original (most notably the backward bent knees). Even cooler is the alien power plant they show, which is also originally crafted.

The graphics aren't the best, but they don't really affect the movie, and in parts, the characters do some pretty stupid things (why climb up the roof instead of go through the van?), but overall, The Arrival is a fun, smart, and suspenseful thriller that the whole family can enjoy.

Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.