“Taking Earth” is a 2016 South African science fiction film directed by Grant Humphreys. The narrative centers on an alien invasion of Earth, with the extraterrestrials seeking a specific individual among the planet’s population.
Plot Overview: The story follows Cameron, an alien who has been hiding on Earth for seven years, and his human friend David. As the invasion unfolds, the aliens aim to locate Cameron, believing he holds the key to Earth’s fate. The film explores themes of identity, friendship, and survival amid a global crisis.
Critical Reception: “Taking Earth” has received mixed reviews. On Letterboxd, it holds a rating of 2.8 out of 5, indicating a range of audience opinions. Moria, a science fiction and horror review site, awarded the film 2.5 out of 5 stars, suggesting an average reception. Nerdly commented that “Taking Earth is a soft recommend,” implying that while the film has its merits, it may not appeal to all viewers.
Production and Release: Produced by Digital Forces, the film had a modest budget of $250,000. It was released in Japan on March 3, 2017, and in the United States on March 17, 2017. Subsequently, it became available on iTunes on May 2, 2017, and on Netflix on July 31, 2017. The film has garnered over 5 million views on YouTube via Popcornflix, indicating a significant online audience.
Conclusion: “Taking Earth” offers a unique perspective within the science fiction genre, particularly considering its South African origins and low-budget production. While it may not resonate with all audiences, it presents an intriguing narrative for viewers interested in alien invasion themes and independent filmmaking.
