Wirral News film review: Battle Los Angeles

Mar 24 2011 By Chris Severs

The past year has seen some outstanding films top the Box Office. The Social Network, Inception and The King's Speech were all worthy, but Battle Los Angeles now sits at the top of the UK and US charts and you may be forgiven for thinking 'why?'.

This two-hour long alien invasion action-fest leaves no cliché unturned. But after taking in over £1.8m in its first week, therein lies the route of its success.

From the opening scenes you're thrust into the lives of some enthusiastic 'ooh-rah!' marines, with Hollywood star Aaron Eckhart and pop-star Ne-Yo dominating screen time.

It's not long before any storyline is swept aside and bullets are flying, leaving the world hoping America can save the day. Think Independence Day but without the top gun President.

Eckhart, as Ssgt. Michael Nantz, performs how you would expect from a seasoned pro and Ne-Yo's Cpl Kevin Harris excels at avoiding singer-turned-moviestar stereotypes. But Jonathan Liebesman's film never surprises and the plot can be drawn on an Etch A Sketch.

Eckhart, who has had a growing reputation in Hollywood following hits like The Dark Knight, is somewhat restricted in his role as Nantz. A talented actor he is, but the conventions of this film prevent any real exploration of his character.

In the latest Batman, Eckhart plays the role of 'White Knight', but here he is supposed to be a tortured soul with a dark past. This fails to really manifest itself on screen, and Eckhart instead plays the Captain America role.

Romance is at a loss in this film, but what would you expect? The arrival of Blue Bloods' Bridget Moynahan, you might think, would represent the films first connection, but it doesn't go any further than 'might' and nor should it given the tone of the picture.

Don't let the lack of originality stop you enjoying the film though. For fans of videogames or brainless sci-fi action, Battle Los Angeles will fulfill all your expectations.

The macho shouting match that makes for dialogue can be excused for good special effects and the floundering attempts at relationships can be excused for entertaining battle scenes.

This movie is no District 9, there is no hidden meaning or obvious metaphor for war, it's a little boys fantasy come true and if you prefer your aliens being blown up, then this is the movie for you.