Annihilation

If you want science fiction that respects its own premise, Annihilation is available in Australia on ABC iview, and in the US on fuboTV and MGM+ Amazon Channel right now. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. 9,437 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Natalie Portman sets the tone, and the world-building does the rest. Put it on tonight on ABC iview and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Annihilation is worth clearing space for. The world-building is meticulous, but it is the characters who carry Annihilation through its more ambitious moments. A biologist signs up for a dangerous, secret expedition into a mysterious zone where the laws of nature don't apply. The human element stays intact thanks to Natalie Portman and Jennifer Jason Leigh, who anchor every scene. Annihilation came out in 2018. What separates Annihilation from lesser genre entertainment is a willingness to let the concept cost the characters something. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

Annihilation is satisfying on multiple levels — something to watch and something to think about after. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Watch for Natalie Portman in particular — the performance elevates the material. Satisfying on multiple levels.