Review of Ex Machina (2015) by Jeff N — 24 Feb 2018

This is science fiction poetry. But science fiction is rare these days, having been largely replaced with space-opera or sci-fi styled action films.

This is not that kind of Sci-Fi. This has more in common with a stage play than Star Wars. With just a few characters and lots of scenes of just two people talking, it is something of a throwback. So if that isn't your thing, then maybe this isn't your movie.

But if you like to see film as art and to leave with something to think about, this movie is a joy. The characters are brilliantly written, perfectly cast and wonderfully acted. And in the end, the writing and direction leaves the audience with plenty to think about.

Just like a small stage play, this film depends on getting the audience to care about the characters. And when we do, it makes the ending all the more powerful. There were many ways to interpret the meaning, making this the kind of movie that you want to share with someone. At once emotional and cerebral, all while serving up an ethical end philosophical puzzle, this is the perfect dinner party conversation piece.

So if that is your kind of movie, you won't do any better than Ex Machina.