9
ANIMATION takes a turn towards the adult in 9, an imaginative fantasy set in a future world that appears to have come straight from a Terminator film.
Rubble-strewn streets patrolled by killer machines testify to the end of humanity as we know it.
The only vestige of hope lies in the nine rag-doll figures created by a guilt-ridden scientist shortly before his death.
9 (voiced by Elijah Wood) is the one who dares to challenge the cautious 1 (Christopher Plummer) and lead the fight back against the domination of the machines.
Expanded from an Oscar-nominated short, 9 is beautifully crafted with a gloomy, oppressive look.
Unfortunately the storyline is familiar as it combines elements of HG Wells, George Orwell, Fritz Lang’s Metropolis, a hint of Edward Scissorhands and even a burst of Judy Garland singing Over The Rainbow.
Its short length ensures that it never overstays its welcome.
VERDICT 3/5
(Cert 12A; 79 mins)