Sci-fi adventure with a sense of awe

The story revolves around a reporter and the woman he leads through a quarantined area in northern Mexico where mysterious octopus-like aliens dwell.

This is a good example of how a quality movie can be made with a micro-budget; in this case about $800,000. Although it's a small film (as opposed to a blockbuster) it's Grade A at heart. In other words, don't expect a SyFy production like "Mega-Cleavage Vs. Gatorade."

It's an intelligent sci-fi adventure with some elements of horror. Despite the title, the monsters are mostly unseen until the last act, where they evoke more of a sense of awe than horror. Speaking of which, the creatures are imaginative and the F/X are convincing. What impressed me most was how the film convinces the viewer of the strange situation with little things, like signs, checkpoints and quarantine walls.

It's somewhat reminiscent of 2008's "Vinyan," although the plot is completely different. They both have a vibe of realism, mystery and jungle adventure.

You'll notice that the "infected area" is in northern Mexico along the border of the USA. This reveals the obvious symbolism of America protecting its southern border from illegal aliens or "undocumented migrants," take your pick. (Of course, under the installed OBiden regime, the border is no longer protected and the invading illegals are welcomed in en masse and absurdly supported with taxpayer funds).

The film was shot in Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Texas.