GRADE: A

In a year overflowing with alien invasion movies, Attack The Block stands out in a galaxy of its own. Writer/Director Joe Cornish has whipped up a movie that shares the qualities that make Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz so entertaining while feeling totally original in a genre that is far from it.

The London-based invasion film stars a cast of unknowns who all command your attention at every moment. John Boyega leads the cast of inner city misfits that start off as unlikeable thugs and end up as heroes. Attack The Block has plenty to be happy about, but most of all it is this character progression that drives it above the rest. And much like Super 8, the band of friends all play a part in the group – there is even a pyrotechnics lover who uses fireworks to save the day at one point. As good as Super 8 is, Attack The Block at least makes us feel like these characters were designed for more than just a part to play.

The characters make the movie great, but there is so much more to Cornish’s masterpiece. First of all, the aliens are wholly original. At least, I’ve never seen any like them. Lurking in their own darkness, they are intense and scary. Their razor sharp teeth glow and they have a very specific reason for landing on Earth – a reason that feels more reasonable than any other alien movie prior.

The absolute best part of the movie is its soundtrack. Cornish worked with Basement Jaxx to compile a soundtrack that is bombastic and full of momentum. Even during moments where the main cast is simply walking down a street, the music drives the film forward and keeps you excited. In fact, I’ve had it playing consistently every day since the movie released.

It is difficult to find weaknesses in Attack The Block. The dialogue is sharp and even full of memorable one-liners. You may be talking like a “Blockhead” for weeks. The humor is witty and the story is focused. There is a strange absence of neighbors in this South London town, but to an extent you forget that other people should live there thanks to characters that require your attention. Attack The Block is the summer movie of the summer – if that makes any sense.

What Should You Do? If you’re lucky enough to have it showing in a theater near you. SEE IT.