Tackling Trouble: A Dive into “Attack the Block”

Alright, folks, let’s have a chat about “Attack the Block.” You ever find yourself rooting for the bad guys, or at least the, let’s say, “misguided youth”? This flick’s got that vibe. Directed by Joe Cornish, who you might remember co-wrote “Ant-Man” and “The Adventures of Tintin,” jumps into his director boots with quite the bravado. Applåder! It’s like he tossed “E.T.” and “Menace II Society” into a blender and pressed start.

Now, John Boyega’s in it. Before he was flying through the galaxy in “Star Wars,” he was blocking attacks right on London’s gritty streets. That kid brought some serious gravitas to Moses—a charismatic yet chaotic gang leader. There’s something here that echoes those gritty, dark November evenings in Sweden when the wind’s chilling your bones and you just want an adventure—any adventure.

The aliens in this film aren’t your typical Hollywood beasts. They’re shaggy, glowing-eyed, street creatures. And lemme tell ya, the first time they pop out, it’s like you’ve just sipped that morning coffee and seriously wake up. Boom. It’s the senses on overdrive! But the thing is, there’s more than what meets the eye. The story peeks under the hood of misunderstood youth and community. There’s something universal about kids trying to protect their ‘turf’, right?

Remember when I almost joined the neighborhood watch here in Stockholm after my moped got nicked? Same difference, kinda. You never know how far you’ll go to guard your home ’til the aliens—eh, thieves—show up.

But, here’s where I’m torn. The pacing’s a bit wobbly and at times I couldn’t help feel like it didn’t dig deep enough into any single theme. Like, are we tackling social issues or just having fun with explosions? I’m not sure.

Overall, “Attack the Block” packs a punch, especially if you’re into films that blend genres like an IKEA furniture cocktail. Just don’t expect profound reflections but more of a wild ride through moody alleys with a brave yet reckless crew. Would I watch it again? Could be, especially on a cold December night, where just a hint of danger lurking outside adds to the thrill.

Check the trailer below