About 'Monsters'

'Monsters' is a 2010 British science fiction drama film, written and directed by Gareth Edwards. The film takes place in a world where Earth has been infested by alien life-forms, and follows the journey of a man and a woman as they make their way through an infected zone in Mexico to reach the US border.

Making / Production

This acclaimed film was filmed with a minimal crew and budget. Edwards served as the director, writer, cinematographer, and visual effects artist, showcasing his multi-faceted filmmaking skills. The majority of the film was shot in real locations, with locals even being used as extras, which added an authentic touch to the movie.

Actors

• Scoot McNairy as Andrew Kaulder - McNairy's performance as the cynical photojournalist Andrew Kaulder was lauded for its authenticity and depth.
• Whitney Able as Samantha Wynden - Able played Samantha, a wealthy young woman engaged to the son of the owner of the company Kaulder works for. Her nuanced performance brought out the vulnerability and strength of her character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The director, Gareth Edwards, created all the visual effects himself, using off-the-shelf Adobe software.
• Despite its high concept, the film was shot on a very tight budget and schedule.
• The 'aliens' in the film were inspired by deep-sea creatures, in an attempt to make their biology seem more plausible.

Awards

'Monsters' won the Best Independent Movie Award at the Scream Awards and was nominated for a BAFTA award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer.

Quotes

• "It's different looking at America from the outside, in."
• "I don't want to survive. I want to live."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Monsters Theme" by Jon Hopkins
• "Aftermath" by Jon Hopkins
• "Heading to the Border" by Jon Hopkins