The Darkest Hour (2011)

Back in the USSR
A group of young people are trapped in Moscow during a worldwide alien invasion.  While trying to survive, they also figure out how to stop the aliens.  This film got panned by the critics, but I really liked it for several reasons.  Firstly, the concept is interesting and original.  The alien invasion story has been done (and overdone), this film explores it in a fresh way.  Also, no character is safe; anyone can die.  Lastly, it is just a fun film, something that is missing in Hollywood.  Everyone wants to be edgy and cool, but where's the fun?  Sure some of the action is implausible and there are a couple of plot holes, but the film remains enjoyable (unlike some big budget films, Fast Five being one) and is much better than most things Hollywood puts out.  The Darkest Hour is produced by one of my favorite directors Timur Bekmambetov (Night Watch, Day Watch, Wanted)

The Darkest Hour gets a respectable 3 out of 5 Poblanos!

Director: Chris Gorak
Writer: Jon Spaiht
Starring: Emile Hirsch, Olivia Thirlby and Max Minghella
Rotten Tomatoes: 11%
Metacritic: 16 out of 100