Arrival is not just a science fiction film about aliens its a mind bending experience that makes you think about things you have never thought of before The film is not about an alien invasion or epic battles but it presents a profound idea Does language control the way we think And can it change our perception of time.
The story
The events begin when 12 massive spacecraft suddenly appear in different parts of Earth and everyone is in a state of panic not knowing the purpose of this mysterious visit This is where Louise Banks Amy Adams comes in a linguist called upon by the US military to try to decode the aliens language and understand why they are here The problem is that their language is completely different from anything on Earth relying on mysterious circular symbols that relate to their perception of time.
The film is not about aliens its about us
On the surface the film appears to be about trying to communicate with aliens but in reality its about communication between humans themselves We see how language can be both an obstacle and a key to understanding others and how humans are always quick to judge rather than trying to understand At the same time the film plays on the idea that time is not linear as were used to seeing it and this is brilliantly embodied in Louises experience with the new language which completely changes the way she perceives reality.
The films ending is completely unexpected
One of the things that distinguishes Arrival is its ending which upends all your expectations As you begin to understand the meaning of the new language the aliens are teaching humans you discover that the entire film has been playing on the idea of perceiving time in a completely different way If you knew your future would you live your life the same way Would you avoid pain or accept your fate as it is These questions are the core of the film and they are what makes its ending the kind of ending that stays with you long after the film is over.
Arrival is not an action movie or a traditional alien thriller but rather a philosophical and emotional experience that makes you reconsider basic concepts like language time and destiny The cinematography music and Amy Adams performance add depth to the story and make you feel like you are part of the journey If you like movies that make you think after you finish this film will be an experience you wont easily forget.
