Attack of the Unknown Review: A Modern B Movie

Release date: August 28, 2020
Running time: 103 minutes 

Starring: Tara Reid, Richard Grieco, Robert LaSardo 

A SWAT team transporting a vicious crime syndicate boss must fight their way out of a county detention center during a catastrophic alien invasion. The SWAT team led by Vernon (Grieco) finally tracks down dangerous crime lord Hades (LaSardo).  However, when they are transporting him to his final stay, they unluckily get caught in the middle of an independence day-style invasion.  

Attack of the Unknown is a B movie through and through, from forced delivery, to hit or miss special effects, to the main alien being a person in a suit going slowly.  It feels like an homage to an older type of movie using modern sensibilities.  There are many updates to the normal B movie formula, such as really good camera work.  Seriously, I was taken by surprise at how beautiful Los Angeles looked despite all the other random issues with the film.  The cast itself are fairly diverse, with a mix of people making up both the SWAT team and the criminals.  It was actually kind of nice seeing diverse groups on both sides, despite the criminals leaning slightly on stereotypes (but still offering a diverse cast of characters).  And the characters are generally entertaining, even if they deliver their lines in a forced, B Movie mentality.  One thing to note is that although Tara Reid gets top billing in the film, she is in it for a very brief cameo.  If you are going into this to see a movie featuring one of the most resurgent B Movie actors, then you are going to be disappointed.

And despite being a modern B Movie, Attack of the Unknown will only appeal to a specific type of movie goer.  For someone that misses these types of movies or is hoping for that experience, you will be fulfilled.  But most other people will likely be underwhelmed by Attack of the Unknown.  The effects are hit or miss, with some good effects and some downright head scratchers.  The story provides just enough cover to allow the SWAT team and criminals to meet (along with a few other random people thrown in) and then to fight an alien.  But that being said the story itself feels overly long despite it being the barest of bones.  Additionally, the characters are barely explored.  And the writing is hit or miss, with a certain amount of over delivery on the lines that is characteristic of B Movies but might rub people the wrong way.  And if you wanted any measure of realism, this is not the place for you with questionable fighting tactics and gun play.  But if you are looking for a new type of B Movie with all the positives and negatives that come along with it, then Attack of the Unknown will scratch that itch.

Attack of the Unknown is a B Movie through and through, with all the good and bad that comes from that.  If that sounds enjoyable, then check it out.  

Rent it.

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