""Annihilation" is an exercise in maintaining tone and keeping the action of the piece relatable enough so that it doesn't spin off into something easily dismissible. Cinematographer Rob Hardy, who also shot "Ex Machina," works with Garland to use the natural world as effectively as the pair used those sleek lines and reflections of the lab in their previous film. And the sound design, especially in the climax, is spectacular, keeping us disoriented and frightened with atonal noises that almost sound like they're turning in on themselves. Most of all, the artistic success of "Annihilation" comes down to the way Garland metes out information visually. He'll often show us one thing and then subvert it with the next image, which is an ambitious but perfect way to tell a story about duality and corruption." - Brian Tallerico, RogerEbert.com