Disclosure Day
By Ilana O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 18
Disclosure Day presents a refreshing return to acclaimed director Steven Spielberg’s take on the alien genre and allows audiences to question the implications of extraterrestrial life! The film’s pacing, tense action sequences, stellar ensemble cast, and ambient score create a unique cinematic experience. While the first and second acts are thrilling, the finale is rendered predictable. Nevertheless, the movie maintains balance by keeping the heart of the narrative in mind.
The storyline follows Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt), a local TV meteorologist, and Dr. Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Connor), a cybersecurity expert, who must work together to expose the secrets of a government conspiracy surrounding UFO activity. While wrestling with their conscience, they are pursued by authorities from Wardex, a secret corporate agency that plans to suppress the truth from the public.
The main cast members are Margaret Fairchild, Dr. Daniel Kellner, Noah Scanlon (Colin Firth), Jane Blankenship (Eve Hewson), Hugo Wakefield (Colman Domingo), and Jackson (Wyatt Russell). Emily Blunt brings emotional depth to her character by evoking vulnerability and compassion as she confronts the reality of non-human entities. Impressively, she takes on multiple linguistic challenges, as the film features her character speaking in three languages, deepening the alien conspiracy. Some of the languages she speaks are Russian, Korean, and even an alien tongue. In the most pivotal scene, Blunt delivers an authentic performance by creating unsettling alien clicking sounds in a single take, adding an edge to her character.
Colman Domingo lends Hugo a calming presence through his subtle mannerisms and welcoming gestures. He convincingly portrays a rebellious yet soft-spoken leader who brings the two main characters’ worlds together. When it comes to the soundtrack, John Williams delivers something subtler than his usual bold themes. The score not only complements the film but also stays true to traditional orchestration while adding nostalgia. In terms of pacing, the first act establishes the stakes by jumping into the action. The chase scenes involving Wardex authorities and the train collision add intensity and spectacle. As the film progresses, it balances high-octane action with contemplative moments that spark hope amid the bleak setting.
Although every aspect feels balanced, the finale falls flat due to a convenient plot device that lacks consistent rules.
The film’s message explores the importance of preserving humanity and the ethics behind having the right to know the truth vs carrying the burden of the truth. Be aware that there are instances of death, violence, and mild profanity.
Disclosure Day gets 4 out of 5 stars from me, and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, as well as adults.
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