9. The Mockumentary Style Works

Starting out looking more like something you might see on Panorama - or Ricky Gervais' world in The Office, the movie's initial documentary style is the perfect way for audiences to be introduced to the world of District 9.

It helps that Copley's Wikus is the perfect, stammering host, forging a connection with the audience - no matter whether you sympathise with his situation or hate his breathing guts - that helps later scenes.

The “news” footage and interviews give parts of the movie a sense of grounding in the actual world that is sometimes hard to shake. And it also allows for Blomkamp to craftily layer in reams of exposition so you know all you need to know about the situation before the main narrative kicks in.

That said, once the second half kicks into gear, District 9 shifts away from the format, but doesn't sacrifice anything for that.

It's a testament to Blomkamp's ability that he can segue almost seamlessly from one style of filmmaking to another and still bring the audience along for the ride.

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