Writer: Audrey Ker

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Watch this if you liked: Harry Potter series, “Percy Jackson And The Lightning Thief”

For a film that's touted for the acclaimed special effects team behind it (Weta Workshop, best known for their work in the "Lord Of The Rings" trilogy, "King Kong" and the "Chronicles Of Narnia" series), this New Zealand project "Under The Mountain" leaves very much to be desired.

Adapted from the novel of the same name by Maurice Gee, "Under The Mountain" follows two fraternal twins as they embark on a journey to save the Earth from being invaded by aliens (barely) disguised as human beings - who by the way, want to turn Earth into a wasteland that's suitable for them to live in! They are guided by a mysterious Mr. Jones (played by Sam Neill, best known as Dr. Alan Grant in "Jurassic Park" & "Jurassic Park III").

The characters in the film didn't have much time to develop and they aren't very memorable. Rather, we're treated with idyllic scenery from New Zealand with its picturesque volcano sites and the laidback lifestyle of the family, making the pace a tad bit too slow. Plus, for twins who share an amazing bond, Theo and Rachel (Tom Cameron & Sophie McBride respectively) don't come across as such. Instead, their bickering makes us think they are two star-crossed lovers!

While the plot doesn't seem scary at all, the jarring and extremely loud soundtrack will however creep you out. One might think that the filmmakers don't have enough time (or money) to do proper shooting, hence resorting to loud creepy music to bring in the chills!

The creature makeup and effects in the film are commendable but they aren't put to good use to help move the story along. All that makeup seems to do little more than letting us know that aliens are, well... aliens! Obviously, people in New Zealand are so used to hobbits and creepy monsters that they are oblivious to aliens looking like third degree burn patients walking around town.

In short, "Under The Mountain" leaves one going 'huh?' at the end of it all. With a weak plot and peculiar music, a quote from one of the alien characters best sums it up: "It. Makes. Them. Dead."

Cinema Online, 23 September 2010