A chilling vision of the future is set to air on Film 4 tonight.
The science fiction film Ex Machina, penned and directed by Alex Garland in his directorial debut, stars award-winning actress Alicia Vikander as a humanoid robot.
Garland first conceived the idea for the film as an 11-year-old boy, experimenting with coding on a computer gifted by his parents. He delved into the subject of consciousness, engaging in discussions with a neuroscientist friend who was sceptical about robots ever achieving sentience.
The question of whether robots can truly think is explored in the “fantastic” Ex Machina, which fans believe could offer a frightening glimpse into the future as artificial intelligence (AI) evolves at a pace faster than we ever imagined.
Domhnall Gleeson plays Smith, a programmer at search engine company Blue Book. Winning a competition lands him a week-long stay at the luxurious yet secluded home of his CEO, Nathan, portrayed by Oscar Isaac, reports the Mirror.
However, things take an unexpected turn when he’s asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement and tasked with determining if a humanoid named Ava, played by Alicia Vikander, is capable of conscious thought and if he can connect with her on any level. Caleb is left to decide whether Ava is telling the truth about her creator or if he’s being deceived by the robot.
Upon its UK and US release in 2015, the film earned more than $36.8 million globally against a $15 million budget. Critics praised its screenplay, visual effects and performances, with many declaring it among the finest films of the decade.
The movie secured Best Visual Effects at the 88th Academy Awards, whilst director Garland received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. It garnered five BAFTA nominations, including Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Vikander, who was also recognised in the Best Supporting Actress category at the Golden Globe Awards.
Audiences have echoed the critical acclaim. On Rotten Tomatoes, where it boasts a 92% approval rating, one viewer said: “Whether you are into sci-fi or not, this is a must see! ! Fantastic film!” Another added: “One of the greatest concepts of exactly what the future in artificial intelligence is going to be like as soon as we figure out quantum computing. Amazing!”.
A third reviewer highlighted its contemporary significance: “Wonderful. The AI revolution is a hot topic,” they wrote. “This movie does a great job of depicting the realities in which we live today. The notion of consciousness is tested. A young man is used as a lab rat in an isolated location to test Ava, a human-like robot, and vice-versa.”
One admirer lauded Garland’s directorial prowess: “A superb debut as a director by Garland in this smart AI thriller that builds tension with its remote setting and sly genius of its antagonist. A movie of style and smarts. One of 2014’s best movies.”
Another viewer championed the power of minimalism: “This proves you don’t need a bloated budget to make a great Sci-Fi movie. Great small cast, well written, and slowly pulls you in and grabs you until the end.”
