I Am Number Four

I Am Number Four is a bit of a tricky title when it comes to pulling in an audience, though for the sake of Austin Powers style guffaws, at least it isn’t called I Am Number Two. So, just what is it about? Well, that’s also a bit tricky to explain as not only would I give away quite a few spoilers, it would also take too damn long to get to the bottom of the whole shebang….and even then there’s still numerous questions left unanswered. Anyway, to sum up as best possible, teenager John Smith (Alex Pettyfer) is an alien (albeit in human form) who, along with his guardian Henri (Timothy Olyphant), is currently hiding out on Earth from the invaders who destroyed his planet. Before long though, Smith’s extra-terrestrial powers begin to raise suspicions amongst the locals and there’s also the problem of his enemies still on his tail. Frankly, not a lot of this makes much sense, but director D J Caruso has form in this area where he can make entertaining films despite screenplays full of holes and more than one contrived co-incidence. This film is no different and Caruso also gets a decent performance out of Pettyfer, though he’s no doubt helped by Pettyfer’s usual acting style of minimal emotion and expression being a perfect match for an alien trying not to draw attention to itself. Olyphant is fine as well, but still frustrates in the fact he never quite appears to be a natural on film as opposed to his solid TV work. Despite the crazy storyline, this has the nice underlying feel of an old style teenage high school film what with young love blossoming, scrapes being gotten into (and out of) and bullies getting their comeuppance. On the downside some of the specials effects are dodgy to say the least and the final climatic battle scene underwhelms. Overall, despite being hamstrung by a lame opening and a lame ending, there is squashed in the middle an enjoyable little fantasy film which is entertaining as it is confusing.

The OC Film Sting Final Verdict

By no means perfect, but the perfect antidote to the Twilight films. Rating: 7/10.