Review of Automata (2011) by Matthew F. J — 17 Oct 2014

Automata is an interesting film filled with good ideas and an interesting message behind. Forget the glossy trailer and previews making you think you are in for a new Blade Runner movie. This is an independent European sci-fi movie and right from the start you will understand you are watching something different, something done with a lot of passion and a strong will to make something a little different, a little more intimate.

Banderas is good as always and carry the film on his shoulders with a certain appeal. The storyline goes into directions I did not expect and end up being much more layered and catchy than I thought it would be.

The film has flaws, it's only the second film from Gabe Ibáñez and it is perceptible he hasn't yet the experience and the virtuosity to really get the film reach a higher level, a more important dimension and become a gripping story.

As it is, it's a solid film, a beautifully edited and produced film with an interesting though at times invasive soundtrack. The work on the lighting is particularly interesting as well, the blue neon lights or deep reds have a strong effect on the mood and vibe of some scenes.

I can only encourage this young director to continue in his path and hope his future films will be as interesting as this one.