REVIEW: Movie based on teen book falls flat with an adult audience
The problem with this film started with the title. “I Am Number Four” is the worst title for a movie since “Snakes on a Plane,” which was intentional. Nothing about this film screams memorable.
“I am Number Four” is a sci-fi, action-packed, flick about John (Alex Pettyfer), a teen, who is also an alien, trying to hide his true identity in order to survive. His guardian and friend, Henri (Timothy Olyphant), was sent from his planet to help keep John alive and protect him from their ruthless enemies, the Mogadorians. They are on a mission to kill all that remain of John’s species. Three are dead, six remain, he is number four and on the run.
Moving from town to town to mask his past and identity, John and Henri move to Paradise, Ohio. John finds himself unleashing his greatest potential. Along with newly discovered powers, John falls in love for the first time with Ohio native, Sarah (Dianna Agron). With more reason to live, he joins with number six (Teresa Palmer) to battle for survival.
“I am Number Four” was originally introduced in 2010 as a novel by Pittacus Lore and was on the children’s chapter of “The New York Times” Best Seller list for six weeks. Unfortunately it won’t make any “best” lists for films of 2011. It wasn’t good.
I found myself laughing at parts that were intended to be taken seriously. The dialogue, script and plot in general needed to improve to be a popular money-making feature, that or dumb-down to live in infamy. The question is, would you rather make a movie that isn’t remembered, merely invisible to the memory, or amplify popularity through notoriety?
If the dialogue and names were changed, then the potentially good graphics, action and fantasy vibes would be not so shabby. That is asking director, D.J. Caruso, to change, well, everything. I was disappointed especially because Caruso has directed hit blockbusters such as “Eagle Eye” and “Disturbia.” Nevertheless, he is human and I will let this one slide.
There was one pleasant surprise, however: a “Glee” star, Dianna Agron, portraying the lead female role. It was nice to see that Agron can act out side her “cheerio” costume. She did a surprisingly good job portraying her character, Sarah; as good as a damsel-in-distress could be portrayed that is.
Supporting actor Callan McAuliffe who plays Sam, the bullied kid of Paradise’s high school, was an added charm. His quirky and confused personality was depicted like a natural. I hope to see McAuliffe in more productions soon. I would like to see what else this 16-year-old can whip up.
As for the character John, Alex Pettyfer is hot. I feel guilty for being attracted to him because he plays a 15-year-old but in reality he is four months older than me i.e. going on 21. His acting skills were up to par for his first big project. I look forward to his next project, a modern spin on Beauty and the Beast, “Beastly.”
This may be a little harsh but Timothy Olyphant, who plays the guardian, Henri, clenches his teeth together when he talks. It looks unhealthy, really. I wouldn’t have casted him as the guardian. He was little, muscular wise, and awkward. Take him out and “I am Number Four” is a step closer to success.
The villains were evil and scary looking but trying to make them have a sense of humor was a mistake. It wasn’t funny. Well, it was funny but because it was so awful. Kudos to the make-up artist for making the Mogadorians look down right freaky.
I think the main problem is the movie’s target audience. The novel was intended for young adults but I think the film was created to be enjoyed by adults as well. This attempt only made it cheesy. Pre-teens, without a real knowledge of movies of greatness, will enjoy this film. Parents, stay home for this one, it’s not worth the buck.
– Anike.pullens@aggiemail.usu.edu