District 9 is a documentary-style science fiction movie that is set in present day Johannesburg, South Africa. Produced by Peter Jackson and directed by Niell Blomkamp, District 9 makes reference to the social injustices of the apartheid system that was enforced by the South African government between the 40’s and 90’s.

The movie opens with human interviews, explaining the situation that happened 28 years ago. An alien spaceship lands over Johannesburg, South Africa carrying millions of malnourished and seemingly enslaved non-humans. With no way of leaving, the vessel is stranded. The government and Multinational United (MNU) has no option but to round up the masses of aliens into  camps in the militarized zone known as Distric 9.

Wikus Van De Merwe (Sharlto Copley) is assigned as head agent of MNU and given the task of issuing eviction notices to 1.8 million aliens, and transferring them to the new holding camps “District 10”. The focus of MNU is to extract weaponry from the aliens which is biologically engineered to only work with the alien DNA. While issuing eviction notices, Wikus happens across a canister with alien writing inscribed on it.  Assuming the canister contains alien weaponry, it is confiscated. While describing the markings Wikus accidentally activates the canister and sprays fluid over is face. Following the contact with the fluid, Wikus begins bleeding black ooze from his nose.

Quick Review:

District 9 is gritty and clever sci-fi movie that draws parallels to the apartheid system introduced to the South African people in 1948, segregating individuals into racial groups. Although relatively low-budget, this movie delivers great visuals and entertainment and defies the normal sci-fi convention; corny storyline and even worse “B-List” quality actors. This movie is thought provoking and entertaining at the same time. This is a great glimpse into the prejudices that people face daily. District 9 is a great departure from the normal brainless, eye candy summer blockbuster.