Arrival

Total Score: 85/100

January 2, 2025

So, we just binged Arrival, and honestly… this one hits different. It’s not your typical alien invasion flick – no explosions, no flashy space battles. Instead, it’s this quiet, slow-burn sci-fi that dives deep into language, time, and what it really means to connect. Dr. Louise Banks, a linguist, is brought in to decode the language of these mysterious aliens hovering over Earth, and from there, the movie slowly unravels into something way more emotional and thought-provoking than I expected. At first, it feels like a tense first-contact story, but as it unfolds, it becomes almost poetic. The focus isn’t so much on the aliens but on how humanity deals with fear, loss, and the unknown. It’s heavy and thoughtful in a way that lingers with you long after the credits roll. That said, I won’t sugarcoat it – the pacing is slow. If you’re not in the mood for something introspective, it might feel like it drags. It’s not the kind of movie that gives you all the answers neatly wrapped up, and while that’s part of what makes it brilliant, it can also feel a little distant at times.

Plot Score: 9/10

The story is gripping in a quiet, intellectual way. Instead of relying on action, it focuses on the complexity of communication and how misunderstanding can lead to disaster. The twist involving time and how the aliens perceive it is handled beautifully – but it’s the kind of twist that hits more on reflection than in the moment. However, the movie’s refusal to pick up the pace might frustrate some viewers. The second act lingers for a long time on small details, and if you’re expecting a major reveal early on, you’ll be waiting. It rewards patience, but the slow drip of information can feel like it’s testing you.

Characters Score: 8/10

Louise Banks is a fantastic lead. She’s intelligent but vulnerable, and the film really leans into her emotional journey. Watching her process the alien language while grappling with personal grief adds so much weight to the story. Her quiet strength carries the entire movie. The supporting cast, however, feels a little thin. While they serve their purpose, most characters outside of Louise feel like functional pieces of the plot rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. Her relationship with Ian Donnelly, a theoretical physicist, adds warmth to the story, but their bond feels more like a subplot than a driving force.

Visuals Score: 9/10

Visually, Arrival is stunning in its simplicity. The alien ships are monolithic and eerie, like giant stones hovering over landscapes. The design of the aliens – shadowy yet graceful – feels otherworldly without being over-the-top. The muted color palette and foggy cinematography create this constant sense of unease and awe. That said, the film’s minimalism won’t be for everyone. Some might find it too restrained, almost like the visuals are intentionally holding back. There’s beauty in the subtlety, but if you’re craving spectacle, you won’t find it here.

Pacing Score: 7/10

Let’s be real – the pacing is slow. This is the kind of movie that builds tension by making you sit in silence and think. While that can be incredibly effective, there are stretches where the story feels like it’s barely moving. The second act, in particular, feels like it drags its feet, almost as if the film is afraid to get to the point too quickly. Some viewers will love the deliberate nature of the film, but if you’re expecting more traditional sci-fi beats, you might find yourself checking your watch.

Dialogue Score: 9/10

The dialogue is thoughtful and restrained, which fits the tone perfectly. Louise’s conversations about language and how it shapes thought are some of the most interesting parts of the movie. There’s a quiet poetry to the way the characters speak, reflecting the introspective nature of the story. However, the movie sometimes leans a little too hard into technical jargon. While it’s refreshing to see a sci-fi that respects the intelligence of its audience, certain lines can feel a little clinical. It doesn’t detract too much, but it adds to the overall feeling of detachment.

Music Score: 10/10

The score is haunting and atmospheric, blending ambient soundscapes with soft, swelling orchestration. It’s subtle but deeply effective, enhancing the film’s emotional weight without overpowering the scenes. The use of silence is just as impactful as the music, making the score feel even more powerful when it kicks in. By the end of the movie, the soundtrack lingers in your mind – not because it’s catchy, but because it feels woven into the emotional experience of the film.

Emotional Influence Score: 9/10

The emotional core of Arrival sneaks up on you. What starts as an intellectual exercise in alien linguistics gradually becomes a meditation on grief and acceptance. The final act, once the twist sinks in, hits hard. It’s the kind of emotional impact that doesn’t fully register until you’re left alone with your thoughts afterward. That said, the film’s cold and cerebral tone can make it hard to connect emotionally at times. The payoff is worth it, but there are stretches where the movie feels distant, almost like it’s afraid to fully embrace its heart until the last possible moment.

Direction Score: 10/10

The direction is masterful. Every shot feels intentional, and there’s a sense of quiet control over the entire film. Denis Villeneuve knows exactly how to build tension without relying on traditional sci-fi tropes. The framing, pacing, and gradual reveal of information all contribute to this lingering sense of mystery and awe. However, the same commitment to restraint can make the film feel cold. It’s not flashy or showy – and while that’s part of its brilliance, it’s also what might leave some viewers feeling detached.

Bingeability Score: 6/10

As much as I admire this film, it’s not exactly something you throw on for fun. It demands full attention and a certain mood. The slow pace and heavy themes make it less of a casual rewatch and more of a “once in a while” experience. That said, if you do revisit it, the second watch reveals so many subtle details you probably missed the first time.

Overall Enjoyment Score: 8/10

The emotional core of Arrival sneaks up on you. What starts as an intellectual exercise in alien linguistics gradually becomes a meditation on grief and acceptance. The final act, once the twist sinks in, hits hard. It’s the kind of emotional impact that doesn’t fully register until you’re left alone with your thoughts afterward. That said, the film’s cold and cerebral tone can make it hard to connect emotionally at times. The payoff is worth it, but there are stretches where the movie feels distant, almost like it’s afraid to fully embrace its heart until the last possible moment.