Sometimes it pays off to take a chance on a film - even if you're convinced you will hate it.
Today I took a gamble on I am Number Four. And it paid off.
I am not usually a fan of films which are about a) aliens or b) people with super powers.
I am Number Four blends both of these things. John (Alex Pettyfer) is one of only nine who survived from his planet, and have come to Earth for refuge. But three others like him have already been killed by an enemy from another planet which seeks to destroy their kind and take over the planet.
This is not a plot which entices me - nor is it one which I would usually enjoy.
But I really liked this film.
Pettyfer was the ideal lead characters - handsome, mysterious but likeable. And the relatively unknown actor gave a strong performance fringed with subtle references to his planet and powers. The film did not overkill the 'alien' aspect of the film, making it much more enjoyable and must less silly.
Timothy Olyphant gave a slightly 2D performance as Henri, John's guardian - but he fulfilled his role as a strong and protective hero, the closest thing to family for the lead youngster.
And the supporting cast was good. The beautiful Dianna Agron played Sarah, the love interest, and Callan McAuliffe created an amusing and kind character in Sam. Teresa Palmer was stiff in her scenes but she was a strong female character - refreshing in modern cinema to see a woman coming into the plot and saving the lead character and acting as a mentor.
Unlike alien invasion movies, I am Number Four was convincing and actually believable. I don't mean to say that I left the screen thinking there are aliens with super powers living among us - but I didn't spend the whole film laughing at the story and the characters.
The film ended with the perfect set up for a sequel. And I can safely say I would take a chance on that too.
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