The electric state

“The Electric State,” now streaming on Netflix, is a science fiction adventure directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. The screenplay, crafted by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, is loosely based on Simon Stålenhag’s 2018 illustrated novel of the same name. The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Millie Bobby Brown as Michelle, Chris Pratt as Keats, and features voices from Anthony Mackie and Woody Harrelson. With a runtime of 128 minutes, the movie transports viewers to a retro-futuristic 1990s America, where a teenage girl embarks on a quest to find her missing brother amidst a landscape populated by sentient robots.

Despite its ambitious premise and substantial $320 million budget, “The Electric State” has garnered predominantly negative reviews from critics. Many have pointed out the film’s lack of emotional depth and coherence. For instance, The Guardian described it as a “bogglingly expensive dud,” criticizing its soulless storytelling and lack of artistic merit. Similarly, Vulture labeled the film a “$320 million piece of junk,” highlighting issues with direction, character development, and overall execution. 

The narrative follows Michelle, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown, as she ventures into a dystopian version of the late 1990s, accompanied by Keats, a smuggler played by Chris Pratt. Their mission leads them into an exclusion zone inhabited by defeated robots, all in search of Michelle’s younger brother, Christopher. While the film’s special effects have been acknowledged for their quality, these visual achievements are overshadowed by a storyline that many found lacking in engagement and originality. 

Audience reactions have been mixed, with some viewers appreciating the visual spectacle and performances, while others echo the critics’ sentiments regarding the film’s shortcomings. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a critic score of 17%, reflecting the overall negative critical reception. 

In conclusion, “The Electric State” presents a visually impressive but narratively deficient experience. Despite the high-profile cast and substantial investment, the film struggles to deliver a compelling and cohesive story. Based on the critical consensus and audience feedback, I would rate this film a 4 out of 10.