9

Creators with unconventional imaginations seem to thrive in the animation realm. Director Shane Acker used his inventiveness to command a post-apocalyptic world into life. Based on the short film engineered for his thesis at UCLA, “9” has turned into the full-length featured story released on September 9, ‘09.

The film’s protagonist 9 (potentially confusing since this is also the title the film, stick with me) is an entirely inanimate rag doll until he somehow arises to life in a world that’s now devoid of humans. Upon discovering others like himself and the hellish threats they all face, his courageous and loyal characteristics jump-start a change on their annihilated planet. For better or worse.

An appropriate starting point for this review would be to discuss the setting and tone. Knowing it was produced by Tim Burton (upcoming “Alice in Wonderland,” “Corpse Bride”) and written by screenwriter Pamela Pettler (“Corpse Bride”), one might assume a shadowy, curious tale to take place. That someone would be right.

“9” is probably not suitable for younger children as bright and warm appearances similar to many Disney-Pixar movies aren’t present here; lightheartedness is sparse after the gloom of an apocalypse. The dark setting provides a perfect home for this atypical animation and more often than not, the computer-animated world looks glorious in its dreary state.

While stunning visuals make up everything the characters inhabit and interact with, the story fails to reach the same depths. Crucial information behind the plot isn’t revealed until near the second act’s end. Prior to that, the only option is to follow along and infer while more and more questions accumulate.

Eventually the audience is brought up to speed, but the amount of time it takes to get there is a disservice to the characters’ development. Luckily, the frequent action picks up where story drops the ball/baton/soap (depending on the metaphor). Camera positioning, direction, and musical cues all build gripping sequences that are exciting to watch.

Mr. Acker’s original short film didn’t make use of dialogue at all. Moving to a full-length film likely shifted his stories vision now that Elijah Wood (“The Lord of the Rings” trilogy) voices the main character 9.

Recognizable actors voice other characters as well, with no one really outshining anyone else. Still, dialogue is sparse when used. Mannerisms and thoughtful expressions give much more life to each creation, cementing this as a highly visual adventure.

Even in its flaws, there is no denying “9” handles suspense and adventure well. Perhaps if the exposition had been less concentrated and more frequent, a deeper connection with the story could have been made.

Moviegoers should hope for an increase in differing styles of animation, like what Mr. Acker has branched out to. He has shown that more mature themes and narratives are possible with this creative medium. Do take the time out to see this in theaters as it is enjoyable, just know that it’s also a measurable distance from magnificent.

_Gregg