The movie "9" is a 2009 animated post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Shane Acker in his feature directorial debut. It is based on Acker's own short film created at UCLA Animation Workshop. The story is set in an alternate version of the 1940s, after humanity has been wiped out following a war with machines. The plot follows a rag doll labeled "9" who awakens in this devastated world and leads a group of similar rag doll-like beings called Stitchpunks, each numbered, as they struggle to survive and uncover the mystery behind the war and their own existence
. The film features the voices of Elijah Wood as 9, along with John C. Reilly, Jennifer Connelly, Christopher Plummer, Crispin Glover, Martin Landau, and Fred Tatasciore. It was produced by Tim Burton, Timur Bekmambetov, Jim Lemley, and Dana Ginsburg. The movie was released theatrically on September 9, 2009, by Focus Features and received mixed reviews. It earned $48.4 million on a $30 million budget and was nominated for an Outstanding Producer of Animated Theatrical Motion Pictures award
. The story involves the creation of the Stitchpunks by a scientist who infused them with parts of his soul to combat the machines that destroyed humanity. 9 and the others face various dangers including hostile machines, and through their journey, they discover how to use a talisman to free trapped souls and ultimately restore life to the world
. The film is noted for its dark, graphic, and suspenseful tone, making it unsuitable for young children despite being animated. It has a visually rich post-apocalyptic style influenced by other films like Terminator and Wall-E
. In summary, "9" is a visually striking, mature animated film about survival, sacrifice, and hope in a post-human world, with a strong voice cast and notable producers like Tim Burton and Timur Bekmambetov