EX MACHINA (2015) - ♦♦♦♦

Directed by - Alex Garland

Written by - Alex Garland

Starring - Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac

"EX MACHINA's Kubrickian thriller set in the not so distant future marked the directorial debut of ALEX GARLAND after screenwriting credits on such films as 28 DAYS LATER and SUNSHINE. 

The story is that of a young programmer invited to his employer's mansion, with the objective to test his android with artificial intelligence and see whether he can be convinced by the android that it is capable of feeling human emotions. Complications arise after the android shows fear towards his master and maker, while the programmer becomes clearly infatuated with its feminine features and sensibilities. 

EX MACHINA is a science fiction vision which bases itself on quite a simple and yet powerful main storyline, that itself is engaging not only on a purely entertaining and psychologically thrilling level, but also as a representation that draws inspiration on the influence of technology in the modern world but also the very nature of humanity. The impressive modernist art direction, together with expressive lighting and meticulous camera movements, often defined by slight and well calculated fluid movements makes it easier to be draws into the atmosphere and story, often even in a hypnotic way. 

The dialogue is well dosed and the characters are three characters with opposing personalities are purposefully like puppets playing well defined roles in the film, which itself offers a fascinating portrayal of themes such as masculinity, with OSCAR ISAAC genius being the alpha male and DOMHNALL GLEESON quite the opposite and introverted kid. 

On top of this, one can admire feminist undertones and a driving sense of paranoia."

Science Fiction, UK