Children of Men

Cast: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine

Director: Alfonso Cuaron

It is 2027 and the world looks like it is coming to an end in a sea of anarchy and procreation at a standstill.  For bizarre and unknown reasons, women have become infertile hence leaving the youngest citizen in the world at 18 years of age only to be murdered, and leaving Planet Earth ever nearer to extinction.  Children of Men is set amongst a backdrop of London in sheer turmoil.  Bureaucrat Theo (Owen) looks like the most unlikely suspect to hail hero and close the gap in bringing London out of terrorist ridden terror.  London has now closed its doors to all refugees and upon finding them recklessly caging them up and sending on to refugee camp to suffer in furore.  Theo is contacted by ex wife and once fellow activist Julian (Moore) to help pregnant African refugee Kee (Claire-Hope Ashitey) get out of harms way and to sanctuary at The Human Project, where she can give birth to her child – the first child to be born in 18 years.  But will Theo keep her out of harms way, or even himself?

Children of Men fronts an all star cast, with the exception of newcomer Ashitey, and the whole concept is truly magnificent.  We see cynical Theo leap to become the film’s protagonist – the miracle of fertility changing his whole perspective on society and on his own life.  He fights on to protect practically a stranger Kee, but knowing she has her trust instilled in him, and that she will be the one to bring a solution to the ever imminent extinction of mankind, does not let any object stand in his way.  Supporting actor Caine delivers a stunning performance as Theo’s friend Jasper, devoting himself to helping Theo in any imaginable way to getting Kee and her unborn baby to The Human Project.

Although a remarkable storyline, some may be put off with the abundant and increasing levels of extreme violence – portraying the terrorist group’s seriousness about being heard.  Children of Men also lacks in places explaining situations fully to the audience, which may leave them confused and asking questions unless fully concentrated.

Overall, Children of Men is an absolute must see.  The story is compelling as it is thrilling, leaving the audience believing in everything they see.

by My-Yen Tang