Children of Men

Children of Men is a stunning achievement; a science fiction film that provides an emotionally rich story, thought provoking material, and some of the most awe-inspiring visuals I’ve seen in years.

In 2027 women are infertile all over the world. The youngest person, aged 18, has just been killed, and in 50 years it looks as though the human race will become just a memory. Theo (Clive Owen) has just about given up on life, until his ex-wife (Julianne Moore), the leader of a terrorist organization, asks for his help. He reluctantly agrees, only to find himself in the midst of a journey that could ultimately save humanity.

Director Alfonso Cuaron and his creative team dive into perfecting a completely textured and complex world. This isn’t a high tech science fiction landscape, but it is the most captivating futuristic world I’ve seen on film since Blade Runner. Every corner of every frame tells a piece of this story, and Cuaron isn’t afraid to reveal what lies at the murky bottom of each corner. From opulent palaces to inhuman ghettos, no area is left unexplored.

In this world, Cuaron takes his characters on an enormous emotional voyage, dropping them into the midst of horrific rebellions, but never dwelling on the brutality. The film’s most wondrous qualities are its optimism, tenderness, and sense of humour even in the face of shocking violence. It never trivializes the tragedies that occur, but Cuaron continually emphasizes that it is compassion and humour that keep the human race alive.

It’s been two days since I’ve seen Children of Men, and there are so many scenes that I just can’t get out of my head. From quiet personal moments to intense action scenes, Cuaron tells his story with a masterful hand, utilizing extraordinary filmic techniques. The highlight of the film is a ten minute chase scene, shot in one continuous take, through an urban warzone. It’s intense, riveting, and one of the few times in a movie where I have physically had to lift my jaw off the floor. And it’s only one of ten equally impressive moments.

Children of Men will be a film that I constantly return to in the years to come.

Star Rating **** (out of 4)