The Evolving Dynamics of AI on Screen
Read Time:4 Minute, 15 Second
MOVIE REVIEW
Atlas
– 
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 58m
Director(s): Brad Peyton
Writer(s): Leo Sardarian, Aron Eli Coleite
Cast: Jennifer Lopez, Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown, Gregory James Cohan, Abraham Popoola, Lana Parrilla, Mark Strong
Where To Watch: available exclusively on Netflix May 24, 2024
RAVING REVIEW: With ATLAS, Brad Peyton explores futuristic challenges where the frontiers of AI (artificial intelligence) meet the complexities of human emotion. This isn't just about robots or dystopian futures; it's a sophisticated tale of trust, betrayal, and survival. Jennifer Lopez delivers a powerful performance as Atlas Shepherd, a character whose every decision could tip the balance between harmony and chaos in a world intertwined with AI.
Peyton, previously known for adrenaline-infused blockbusters such as SAN ANDREAS and RAMPAGE, steers his latest film, ATLAS, into the complex terrain of human-AI relationships, infusing the sci-fi genre with unexpected depth. This film goes beyond traditional sci-fi action, tapping into timely societal debates over the role and impact of technology in our lives.
Lopez fits perfectly as Atlas Shepherd, a data analyst with a profound mistrust of AI. Her journey is central to ATLAS's narrative as she navigates through high-stakes encounters that challenge her preconceptions about technology and force her to reconsider her stance on artificial intelligence. The film, without question, makes you think about these same questions; even though ATLAS takes place in a distant future, there are many moments that I could already see as a reality, the advancements in AI from the time this film started production until now have already advanced by inconceivable levels.
ATLAS scrutinizes the notion of trust—how it's built, broken, and rebuilt, especially in the aftermath of betrayal. This theme resonates deeply within the storyline, setting ATLAS apart from typical genre fare and aligning it closely with contemporary concerns about privacy, control, and technological overreach.
Lopez's evolving connection with Smith (Gregory James Cohan,) the AI at the heart of her mission, transforms from cold skepticism to even more questions, underscoring the film's focus on vulnerability and connection. Peyton's direction captures this dynamic, bringing the film's futuristic settings and high-tech gadgets to life, enriching both the visual spectacle and the narrative's emotional resonance.
Supporting performances from Simu Liu and Sterling K. Brown add considerable depth to the film. Liu portrays Harlan, one of the film's antagonists, with a chilling precision that defies the typical portrayal he’s known for, making him a nuanced and formidable foe. As Colonel Banks, leader of the Rangers, Brown brings a blend of authority and relatable warmth that enhances the film's rich character dynamics.
Technically, ATLAS stands out, with its detailed vision of the future grounded in realistic projections by an actual futurologist hired to keep the film in a realm of reality. Inspired by sleek sports car interiors and robust fighter jet exteriors, the mech suit's design symbolizes the seamless integration of historical ingenuity and advanced technological design. This serves the film's aesthetic and deepens the thematic exploration of the merger between human and machine.
Peyton's ambitious storytelling matches his expansive world-building, which pays tribute to classic sci-fi elements while forging new aesthetic and thematic paths. The varied landscapes of another planet are not merely backdrops but play a pivotal role in reflecting Atlas's internal struggles and her quest for survival, adding a striking visual dimension to her journey.
ATLAS offers a profound commentary on the intricacies of human emotion and the ethical dilemmas artificial intelligence poses. The film invites audiences to reflect on the moral implications of emerging technologies, presenting a narrative as timely as it is thought-provoking. With its compelling performances, meticulous direction, and in-depth thematic exploration, ATLAS sets a new benchmark in the genre, ensuring it resonates with a wide array of viewers and stimulates thoughtful discussion.
For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. You can also find my social media accounts on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.
I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.
[photo courtesy of NETFLIX]
DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0
This wasn’t great, but it was FAR better than most critics and fans are giving it credit for. I didn’t expect it to be good, because when you see Netflix movie and JLo starring you don’t expect much, but it was better than I expected. Unfortunately the masses seem to automatically deduct scores for movies that are Netflix ones, and JLo starring doesn’t help, though she was actually better than I expected. I think you give it a very fair review and don’t follow the masses, which I appreciate. It doesn’t look like it allows me to give 3 1/2, so I will go ahead and give it 4 given it exceeded my expectations and was entertaining.
Thank you so much! I try my best to ignore the masses and their negativity. It’s hard, but I saw some of the horrendous comments people were saying about this that were entirely undeserved. It won’t win an Oscar, but it was still enjoyable and, like you said, entertaining. That counts for a lot for me.