Attack of the Unknown

Attack of the Unknown is an adrenaline-fueled sci-fi thriller released in 2020. Produced by Mahal Empire Productions and directed by Brandon Slagle, the film boasts a gripping narrative, delivering pulse-pounding suspense and action with an emotion-evoking drama that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. The film features an ensemble cast, including Richard Grieco, Jolene Andersen, and Douglas Tait, who portray their roles exceptionally and perfectly fit their characters' distinct personas.

The story begins in the crime-infested alleys of Los Angeles, where we are introduced to Illustrious SWAT team leader Vernon (played by Richard Grieco). Vernon is a battle-hardened veteran with a notorious reputation. He's respected and feared in the underworld, known for his ruthless and decisive approach to crime. Grieco depicts Vernon's persona flawlessly, convincingly infusing his calculated demeanor and gritty tenacity into the character.

Despite his hardened exterior, Vernon is also depicted as a man tormented by his past, revealing a level of vulnerability that adds depth to his otherwise stern persona. This is visible in the interactions with his daughter and fellow team members, adding layers of complexity and deepening the character’s narrative arc.

Alongside Vernon, we meet Jolene Andersen's character, Hannah, another vital member of the SWAT team. Toughened by the rigors of the job and displaying a stalwart sense of loyalty to the team, she provides a strong female presence in this male-dominated world. Andersen engages viewers with her resilient performance, deftly balancing Hannah's strength and humanity.

In the first act, the highly specialized police unit embarks on the biggest operation of their careers - a high-stakes mission targeting an infamous cartel kingpin. Little do they know, this intense mission is just the beginning of a more menacing threat they would soon be facing. Their thrilling investigation rattles through an exhilarating crescendo of suspense, creating an atmosphere of unpredictability and escalating danger.

As the movie progresses, the intensity amplifies as the routine and familiar cityscape around them rapidly devolves into an eerie warzone. A fleet of spaceships descends from the skies, launching an onslaught against humanity that brings about widespread panic and chaos. The team soon realizes that they are up against a force far beyond their expertise and comprehension. The ruthless mob boss they were pursuing suddenly seems trivial in comparison to an alien invasion threatening to wipe out human existence.

Alien creature specialist Douglas Tait reveals his expertise by terrifyingly bringing the extraterrestrial aggressors to life. His performance coupled with the film’s well-executed CGI, design special effects, and make-up effects injects a palpable sense of terror into the otherworldly invaders.

The film transitions smoothly from a gritty crime drama to an intense alien invasion thriller, and despite the stark contrast in themes, it works. This unexpected and meticulously designed twist amplifies the movie's tension and unpredictability, adding a fresh spin to the typical extraterrestrial invasion theme.

Aesthetically, the film exhibits an impressive blend of palpable tension and awe-inspiring cinematic sequences. Complimented by a haunting score that accentuates the intense emotion and anxiety throughout the movie, you are transported right into the heart of the unknown invasion. The cinematography is skillful, immersing viewers into an atmosphere of impending doom and apocalyptic chaos, whilst also capturing the raw emotion and bravery of our heroes.

Attack of the Unknown explores complex themes, unravels intense action, and presents stunning, rewarding visuals. Each primary character within the film is meticulously developed, with vulnerabilities and relatable conflicts that add depth to their roles. The clash of genres, from crime thriller to sci-fi horror, maintains viewers on the edge, continually guessing and excited for every scene that comes next. Its dramatic narrative drives an emotional punch, exploring the essence of humanity when faced with the unknown.

While Attack of the Unknown might seem like a standard alien invasion movie on the surface, it is much more than that. It pushes the boundaries and expectations of viewers, taking them on a wild ride they absolutely won’t forget. It's an exploration of resilience, survival, and how far one would go to protect those they care for, even when faced with threats beyond this world.