In a nutshell Annihilation was deemed somewhat “too clever” for mainstream audiences after some flops during test screenings - which is why Paramount made the executive decision to sell the film to Netflix for international release. To an extent, I can see why the film would baffle some people - depressingly because it requires audiences to use their brain - but I stand firmly on the grounds that on the whole Annihilation is a worthy watch. For fans of The Descent (2005), I think Annihilation is up your alley - it draws on similarities with the female-led cast all of which are not typical of the female gender, but with this the characters are incredibly progressive and intellectual which was very refreshing. After her husband returns from “the shimmer” somewhat disorientated and altered, Lena (Natalie Portman) and four other women - a mix of experts in their relevent fields equipped with combat skills - take it upon themselves to get to the root of this dangerous and toxic area. So far, aside from Lena’s husband, no one has come out alive. Adherent to its genre Annihilation embodies classic sci-fi conventions touching base with those also affiliated with horror - it’s got edge, fantastical plot turns, gore, and sophistication - and I was happy to watch something that didn’t rely purely on scare tactics. This film, like the characters, have got the smarts and they’re also very easy to identify with in terms of their problem-solving abilities in challenging postions. Annihilation is also stunning, which is another reason I would have loved to have seen it on the big screen. In a way it’s the adult version of Avatar with more minimalism and originality - not understanding the how, why and what of the environment the visuals alone are presented as enigmas which drives the suspense throughout the narrative. I wouldn’t necessarily say you’re missing out by not watching Annihilation, but if you do get curious I think it’s a good recommendation.
