Ace Adams greets aliens

Arrival makes for a mature, surprising and touching slice of sci-fi drama.

Amy Adams imbues her lead with just about every emotion imaginable in a powerhouse turn.

Don’t expect city-wide destruction; these aliens may go about their business quietly, but their message is loud and clear. With it’s 60s/70s trappings and jarring tonal shifts, this is an oddball creation.

It’s never dull, though, and writerdirector Anna Biller deserves brownie points for creative flair and originality.

Samantha Robinson is a revelation, there are surprising storyline shifts and laughs as well as shrieks are on offer.