This might be a generalization but British folk are funny. Even when said British folk are fending off an alien invasion while living in one of the poorer parts of London. No matter the circumstances, they’ll always give you a chuckle.
That's what happened in Attack the Block, a British import that's equal parts horror, suspense, and comedy. It was made by the same guys who brought us Shaun of the Dead. In it some local toughs run afoul of an alien critter that looks like a cross between Aliens and the Westminster dog show.
They handle the situation poorly to say the least and that leads to a small invasion on their block. The name for the housing scheme they live in.
The movie is surprisingly funny, the young actors all play their roles well. Pest, played by Alex Esmail, is particularly memorable, as is John Boyega as Moses who is an excellent straight man for the crew. There are other performances that deserve praise like that of Hi Hit played by Jumayn Hunter. He's the gangster drug dealer who wishes to be a gangsta rapper.
It is not a commentary on the plight of the young poor kids in London. Kudos to Joe Cornish, the writer and director for that. Though at times it appears the director is trying to explain to a local tough near you why that lifestyle isn't quite so peachy. If it tried to do any stinging social commentary, it would have been lost amongst all the blood and gore spread by the alien invaders.
No, instead the movie keeps itself simple. Makes you laugh, makes you jump a little, and makes you feel like you didn't waste your money.
Give it a look.
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