The Electric State' Movie Review: A Visually Stunning but Emotionally Divisive Journey
The Electric State' Movie Review: A Visually Stunning but Emotionally Divisive Journey
Director: The Russo Brothers
Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Stanley Tucci, Ke Huy Quan, and Anthony Mackie
Genre: Sci-Fi / Adventure / Drama
Introduction
The Electric State is an ambitious sci-fi film directed by the Russo Brothers, adapted from Simon StÃ¥lenhag’s acclaimed graphic novel of the same name. Known for their work on Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, the Russo Brothers attempt to bring StÃ¥lenhag’s hauntingly dystopian world to life — a world where abandoned robots and decaying technology litter the landscape. While the film impresses with its visuals and atmosphere, its narrative pacing and emotional depth leave room for debate.
Plot Summary
Set in a desolate, alternate-future America, The Electric State follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), a young teenager traveling across the ruins of society to find her missing brother. Accompanied by a mysterious robot and an enigmatic drifter (Chris Pratt), Michelle’s journey unfolds against the backdrop of a decaying technological world where powerful corporations and rogue machines dominate the landscape.
The story blends elements of post-apocalyptic survival with themes of human connection, loss, and resilience.
Visuals and World-Building
One of the film's strongest elements is its stunning visual design. The Russo Brothers, known for their blockbuster experience, craft a hauntingly beautiful world that stays true to StÃ¥lenhag’s distinctive artwork.
The film’s color palette blends muted tones with bursts of neon, reflecting a world where decaying technology contrasts with flickers of life.
The abandoned robot designs — massive, rusting figures half-buried in fields or towering over desolate highways — create a striking sense of scale and desolation.
The visual effects team deserves praise for seamlessly integrating these mechanical elements into the environment, making the world feel immersive and believable.
Performances
Millie Bobby Brown delivers a compelling performance as Michelle, balancing vulnerability and strength in her quest to reunite with her brother. Her emotional range carries much of the film’s weight.
Chris Pratt, in a more subdued role compared to his usual action-hero persona, brings quiet intensity to his mysterious character. However, some may find his character underdeveloped, leaving questions unanswered about his backstory and motivations.
The supporting cast — including Stanley Tucci, Ke Huy Quan, and Anthony Mackie — adds depth, though some roles feel underutilized in the broader narrative.
Story and Pacing
While The Electric State excels visually, its storytelling may divide audiences.
The film’s slow-burn pacing may frustrate viewers seeking high-energy action. Instead, the narrative focuses heavily on introspective moments, exploring themes of grief, memory, and identity.
Some plot points feel underexplored, particularly regarding the world’s corporate dystopia and the deeper implications of the robot uprising.
Fans of Simon StÃ¥lenhag’s graphic novel may appreciate the film’s dedication to atmosphere, but those unfamiliar with the source material may find the story’s ambiguity unsatisfying.
Themes and Symbolism
The Electric State delves into several thought-provoking themes:
The Cost of Technological Dependence: The film portrays a world where technology’s overreach has led to societal collapse, serving as a cautionary tale about corporate greed and unchecked innovation.
Grief and Loss: Michelle’s journey is as much about processing personal trauma as it is about survival.
Human-Technology Bond: The relationship between Michelle and her robot companion highlights themes of trust, loyalty, and artificial intelligence's evolving role in human emotions.
Strengths
✅ Visually breathtaking, staying true to Simon StÃ¥lenhag’s original aesthetic.
✅ Millie Bobby Brown’s heartfelt performance carries emotional weight.
✅ A hauntingly immersive world that rewards attentive viewers with rich visual storytelling.
Weaknesses
❗️ Slow pacing may test viewers expecting fast-paced action.
❗️ Some characters feel underdeveloped despite strong performances.
❗️ The narrative leaves certain plot points ambiguous, which may frustrate those seeking clear resolutions.
Verdict
The Electric State is a visually arresting yet emotionally divisive film. While it excels in world-building and mood, its slower pace and ambiguous storytelling may not appeal to all audiences. Fans of introspective sci-fi — akin to Blade Runner 2049 or Annihilation — will likely appreciate its meditative approach. However, those expecting a fast-paced dystopian thriller may feel underwhelmed.
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