Tags
2010's, Alex Garland, Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson, Ex Machina, Oscar Isaac, Science Fiction, Thriller
Film Title
Ex Machina
Director
Alex Garland
Starring
- Domhnall Gleeson as Caleb Smith
- Oscar Isaac as Nathan
- Alicia Vikander as Ava
An intriguing science fiction thriller marking the directorial debut of Alex Garland, Ex Machina is unusual, disturbing and full of interesting themes that will haunt you for days. Boasting a strong cast and a big impact, it is one of the best science fiction movies of recent years.
Computer programmer Caleb Smith works at a computer software company. We first meet him when he wins a competition to visit the reclusive CEO of his company billionaire Nathan in his beautiful but very isolated home for one week. Excited and very curious about the prospect of it all, Caleb meets Nathan, who turns out to be a very unusual guy indeed. By turns very intelligent and then selfish, egotistical and prone to heavy drinking, Nathan is unnerving to a certain degree to Caleb, who at first shrugs it off because he’s so interested in why he’s been selected. The real purpose of Caleb’s visit is later revealed to him. Nathan has created a beautiful female AI that is called Ava. Caleb is to take part in a Turing test to distinguish whether or not Ava could pass as a human. These tests consist of questioning from Caleb to Ava, which Nathan observes via high-tech cameras. At first Caleb is completely bowled over by the creation of Ava and struck beyond belief. But events soon take a dark turn, when during one if their sessions, Ava manages to cause the power to fail for a few minutes. During one of these system shut downs, Ava tells Caleb that he shouldn’t trust anything Nathan tells him. This in turn leads to uneasy tension between the three of them as a sense of paranoia sets in and we are left consider who is really pulling the strings and ask many questions. Is the gifted but disturbed creator Nathan behind everything and what are his intentions, both for Caleb and for Ava? Is the impressionable Caleb so entranced by Ava that he can’t see something dark is brewing? And most importantly, how like a human is Ava and what is she really capable of doing?
As writer and director, Alex Garland creates a sense of eeriness to the movie that is slowly revealed in often disturbing and surprising ways. He has a sure hand in both capacities and taps into an array of themes, which include what it means to be human and the accountability of man playing God. To say Ex Machina is a thought-provoking film is an understatement, as it delves into unusual angles and pulls the rug from under us in provocative fashion. With the troika of characters, we are never sure who to relate to as the seesaw of sympathy swings between them all as the dark story evolves and other motives are hinted at. A keen visual design highlights the technological aspects of the story seen in Nathan’s high-tech dwelling, the mirrors of the room in which Caleb conducts the tests and the appearance of bewitching Ava. It must be said that the appearance of Ava is indeed a sight to behold. Her face, hands and feet look human but the rest of her body, constructed with a sophisticated mesh like structure allows us to glimpse the robot inside. It’s the design of Ava that really blurs the line between human and machine. Sonically, Ex Machina is highly effective to with the whirring sound of Ava’s movements suggesting the inner working of her robotic(or is it more closer to human?) mind and a humming ambient score that adds considerable tension to the film by letting us know straight away that something is not quite right.
The three main players in the story are all very good and ideally cast for this movie. Domhnall Gleeson plays the part of Caleb with a winning curiosity and naivety that is later tested as darkness encroaches upon his participation in the test. Oscar Isaac is equally effective as the eccentric Nathan, who is above all a capricious character. Isaac handsomely reveals these unpredictable changes within Nathan with alarming intensity. We never know which side of Nathan we are going to get next and most of that is down to the committed work of Oscar Isaac. Plus, the guy has some serious dance moves that he showcases in a completely unexpected but entirely memorable scene. The standout performer for me in Ex Machina from the central trio is Alicia Vikander in her portrayal of the android Ava. The performance has a certain unnatural poise to it, from the tilt of her head, unusual tone of her voice and her smooth, graceful movements, it’s hard to take your eyes off her work. Yet her performance goes deeper than just the physical side; Vikander successfully cloaks Ava in ambiguity with a mix of guile, sensuality and intelligence that really makes us consider what her true nature is. Is Ava more sophisticated than Nathan ever imagined? And has she somehow taken on a complete life of her own? Thanks to the marvellous performance from Alicia Vikander, we are never truly sure and that’s where the effectiveness lies.
A masterfully thought out film, that benefits from smart writing, effective direction and excellent work from the cast, Ex Machina is a film that is bound to make a mark on the viewer with its ideas and execution.
Kat Impossible said:
I am so glad you watched it and loved it! Alicia Vikander is such a gem and this is one of her best works so far. The eternal romantic in me would have hoped for a different ending, but maybe that is what made the movie even more disturbing and in the end great. Great review!
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vinnieh said:
I liked how unexpected this film got, a lot of I didn’t see coming.
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Kat Impossible said:
Me neither! That was definitely an important aspect.
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vinnieh said:
The whole claustrophobic atmosphere helped with the tension, especially the lighting and sets.
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Kat Impossible said:
Yeah, the visuals were amazing!
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vinnieh said:
It was good that they didn’t overtake the story though. There are too many movies were the visuals swamp the story and it becomes a bit much. Thankfully this movie had a riveting story.
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Kat Impossible said:
True, I definitely agree with you on that.
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Jeroen Admiraal said:
Nice review!
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vinnieh said:
Thanks, I was so glad I finally watched this. I can’t believe I missed it in cinemas but at least I’ve seen it now.
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deaconsden said:
Great review. I watched this for the first time recently. It’s an amazing film yet for me the ending was such an emotional gut punch. I really didn’t know how to feel, but there is no denying that this has an impact no matter what. Great visuals. I found myself asking how was that done? Movies like this always remind me of what science fiction truly is.
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vinnieh said:
I know what you mean about the ending, I wasn’t expecting it at all. The design, especially in the case of Ava, was truly inspired and just wow.
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beetleypete said:
I haven’t read a bad review of this one, V, and intend to buy it on DVD soon. It has almost reached my £5 target price!
Cheers, Pete.
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vinnieh said:
All of the positive reviews are true Pete, it really is one masterful movie.
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emmakwall said:
So glad you enjoyed this Vinnie! It’s been on my watch list for a while, definitely want to see this one.
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vinnieh said:
I think it’s a movie that will be right up your street. And plus I love Alicia Vikander so much.
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emmakwall said:
I’ve wanted to see it for a while. I only got round to watching Fury Road last week so you can see how behind I am!! 🙂
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vinnieh said:
I’m so behind too Emma. What did you think of Fury Road?
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emmakwall said:
I enjoyed it but not as much as the rest of the world evidently! Haha. I did like it, but not ever gonna be one of my favourite films. Predictably I liked Nux the most 🙂
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vinnieh said:
Well it’s good to sometimes have a different opinion to everyone else. I loved Charlize Theron the best.
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emmakwall said:
It was probably just built up too much. Not sure what I expected really. But that’s not to say I disliked it, I really enjoyed it and it was a fun, adrenaline filled thrill ride! But I didn’t love it like some people do 🙂
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vinnieh said:
I understand you completely Emma.
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emmakwall said:
You always do 🙂
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vinnieh said:
Well you are my peachy sister.
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emmakwall said:
#peachybrother!
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vinnieh said:
Haha, I’m getting back into fitness so my peach may be a bit more toned in the future.
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emmakwall said:
You have nothing to worry about judging from your latest photo 🙂
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vinnieh said:
That photo was of my larger peach after Christmas, but if you think it looked fine thanks. I’ve been told I have something of a finely shaped ass, what do you say?
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thoughtsallsorts said:
Emma – ha, ha, I’m so with you about the Nux character in Fury Road. Being the hopeless romantic I had hoped for a more “romantic” ending…sigh…oh well. But…wow, couldn’t believe how “little” Nicholas Hoult had grown up from when I’d last seen him in “About a Boy”.
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Cindy Bruchman said:
After writing the book for the film “The Beach” I was curious to see how Alex Garland would do with writing and directing. My favorite scene was the dance scene. Who knew Oscar I. could dance so well? But it was so very chilling in the context of the story. A very cold, claustrophobic film surrounded by open Rocky Mt. beauty. I love the contrasts. The only thing that had me scratching my head was why the helicopter man at the end picked her up casually and flew away? He was supposed to be picking up Caleb, the programmer. Regardless, I enjoyed Vikander very much.
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vinnieh said:
The use of contrasts was really marvellous and I loved the use of mirrors to suggest duality. That dance scene was very unexpected but excellently done. Alicia Vikander was immensely good hear, keeping us guessing about the mustery surrounding her.
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The Telltale Mind said:
Loved this film. Good job on the review!
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vinnieh said:
Nice to know you think I did such a good movie justice.
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Keith said:
Fine review. This one has sustained a constant level of positive buzz.
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vinnieh said:
Indeed it has Keith, have you seen it?
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Keith said:
I have. Pretty mesmerizing stuff isn’t it?
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vinnieh said:
It had me glued from beginning to end. The acting was fantastic.
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Paul S said:
It’s great to see so many people appreciating Ex Machina for the pure cinema that it is. A true modern masterpiece. You nailed it Vinnie.
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vinnieh said:
Cheers Paul. I loved the themes it presented and how it wasn’t afraid to be unusual and disturbing.
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R.L. Terry said:
Excellent review of this underrated movie! I was so disappointed that it did not receive any nominations at this year’s Golden Globes or Oscars–at least, I do not recall seeing it on any list.
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vinnieh said:
It was a stellar movie in every sense. I believe that Vikander got a nomination at the Golden Globes, but I believe she deserved an Oscar nod for this. I think Ex Machina has two Oscar nods, best original screenplay and sound mixing I think.
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vinnieh said:
Sorry I was wrong, it got nominated for screenplay and visual effects.
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R.L. Terry said:
I nominated you for the WordPress Liebster Award. Follow the link to my post! https://rlterryreelview.wordpress.com/2016/01/25/liebsteraward/
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vinnieh said:
Thank you so much for thinking of me for this, I’ll head over now.
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Movie Quibble said:
Nice review. I put it in my top ten for last year. Very thought provoking. Have you changed your blog’s theme or am I imagining this?
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vinnieh said:
I still can’t stop thinking about it. The themes at play were compelling and the direction and writing emphasized that. Then there is the central trio of performers who were fantastic, especially Alicia Vikander. You are not imagining things, I did change my blog look at the beginning of January.
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Movie Quibble said:
I liked Oscar Isaac in this the most. So unsettling, and very humorous in the bleakest sense possible. Cool – the change looks good man.
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vinnieh said:
He really gave off that unpredictable and capricious vibe that was extremely unnerving. And he has some great dance moves.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Awesome review Vinnie! Amazon Prime offer this and I’ve been mulling over whether to try it or not. I think you just made my mind up for me. 🙂
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vinnieh said:
You gotta see it Kim, it’s a superb movie.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I’m going to try to watch it this weekend Vinnie. Thanks!
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vinnieh said:
Enjoy Kim, all I’m gonna say is it’s a movie that is hard to forget.
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Marta said:
Nice review Vinnie! This is such a great film, beautifully shot with an intriguing plot and very good performances.
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vinnieh said:
I loved the visuals on display and how it made for an intense and unusual environment. Those performances were really something special.
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Marta said:
Couldn’t agree more 🙂
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vinnieh said:
I really love Alicia Vikander, she has become one of my favourite actresses. Her versatility and subtlety is just marvellous.
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Marta said:
Have you seen A Royal Affair? She is brilliant and you get Mads Mikkelsen too (who is always spectacular in anything).
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vinnieh said:
I’m putting it on my movies to watch list. Really appreciate your recommendation.
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Marta said:
sure, I hope you’ll like it.
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vinnieh said:
I have a feeling I will. As everyone has been so good to me, I did a post thanking everyone the other day with a twist. Look for the post entitled You’re All Sexy.
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Marta said:
🙂 I’ll check it out
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vinnieh said:
You’re a star Marta, a real star.
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Marta said:
*blush* oh come on, stop it! 🙂
*whisper* more, more ego-boosters like this 😉 😛
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vinnieh said:
I’m always happy to give back positivity to my fellow bloggers.
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Marta said:
thanks Vinnie! It’s people like you that make the blogosphere a great place to be part of 🙂
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vinnieh said:
I’m touched by those lovely words Marta, they make me feel really good.
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Marta said:
that’s what friends are for!
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vinnieh said:
I’m gonna have that song stuck in my head now!
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Marta said:
well…there are worse things in life :-))
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vinnieh said:
That’s so true Marta, I’m happy to have you as a friend.
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Marta said:
me too.
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vinnieh said:
We’re two groovy cinematic buddies.
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Marta said:
that we are! ok, time to sign off for a bit, I need to cook dinner!
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vinnieh said:
Enjoy your meal Marta.
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ruth said:
Beautiful review Vinnie!! I agree the appearance of Ava is one of the most beautiful as well as unsettling robot I’ve ever seen on screen. “…what it means to be human and the accountability of man playing God” I think Garland tackled those themes very well here. Impressive work all around from the filmmaker and cast.
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vinnieh said:
The design of Ava was splendid, it perfectly blurred the lines as to whether she could be taken as a human or android. And she’s probably the most fetching android I’ve seen in movies. I love it when people quote my work, it means a lot Ruth. Thanks Ruth for a lovely comment. I don’t think anyone’s ever described my work as beautiful.
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Emilio Pasquale said:
I had this in my Netflix queue but, based on your review, I have moved it up to the top! Can’t wait to see it!
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vinnieh said:
I’m sure you’ll dig it as much as I did.
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Anna (Film Grimoire) said:
Really excellent write-up Vinnie, I loved reading this! Can’t wait to see this film, I feel like I’m really missing out on something special and thought-provoking.
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vinnieh said:
It’s some really thought provoking stuff Anna, the kind of movie with a slow burning tension.
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vinnieh said:
It’s one of the best science fiction films I’ve seen in a good while.
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wwwpalfitness said:
I downloaded this while watching The Danish Girl while also watching The Critic’s Choice Awards and seeing her win and share another win with both movies, so I downloaded a blu ray version and skimmed it and will watch it when I am not backed up.
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vinnieh said:
Be sure to tell me what you made of the movie.
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wwwpalfitness said:
I will, having seen her dressed up nicely she is definitely one of those if she doesn’t have a pro put her makeup on she does not look so hot out and about, worse than Jennifer Aniston but her acting is very good.
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Jordan Dodd said:
Agree with every word you wrote. Great description of a great movie, awesome writing mate. I need to watch this again, it was so long ago at the cinemas… Vikander is just amazing. I even wrote a post just about the soundtrack!
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vinnieh said:
Vikander blew me away with her performance. The amount of fluid physicality and mystery she brought to the part was spellbinding. I loved the humming ambience of the movie, it really helped build uneasy tension.
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Jordan Dodd said:
that’s pretty much what I wrote about the soundtrack haha. Its ambient for the most part, I agree it really created this uneasy but no over the top tension
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vinnieh said:
It unraveled really well and as you said wasn’t overt at all, instead bubbling away under the service. The visuals really blew me away, particularly the construction of Ava. She looked both very beautiful and peculiar all at once.
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jwforeva said:
You just captured my thoughts perfectly. Nicely written stuff!! I think the film’s greatest aspect is it’s investment to character relationships and dialogue. From there, a sort of power play occurs where characters negotiate and manipulate. But as you rightly pointed out, the ambiguity of Ava is the most fascinating thing. I’ve given it some thought but it still baffles me, whether 1. she has a moral code but she’s flawed just like her creator Nathan or 2. she doesn’t truly have consciousness so she’s simply finds ‘escaping’ as a necessary end goal or something else. So baffling but I love it 🙂
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vinnieh said:
I think the character of Ava can be read on multiple levels, and the performance of Alicia Vikander really adds to that a lot.
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jwforeva said:
True. What do you think of Ava?
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vinnieh said:
I personally think she has taken on her own consciousness and is using all the things that she was programmed with to manipulate those she comes into contact with.
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jwforeva said:
Interesting. For me I just think Nathan(who represents our thirst for creating AI) reaches a point where he births (hence, deus ex machina) a new being with a consciousness far too complex for us to fathom.
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vinnieh said:
That’s an interesting theory. That’s what I love about this film, it has so many themes and interpretations.
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SLIP/THROUGH - Dan said:
Great review, Vinnie. Isn’t it so exciting to find a film that intrigues you on every level! I really enjoyed your compelling analysis.
It’s rare for a film to invite us in like Ex Machina does. The surroundings may seem strange but they are entirely captivating. I agree with everything you say. The themes are stimulating, the filmmaking is astounding, and the internal performances are blinding.
I love that despite how robotic Ava looks we still focus on the humanity. Vikander and Garland deserve all the credit you give them. I’m looking forward to your next deconstruction. This is what I really dig about the medium. Thanks, Vinnie.
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vinnieh said:
It’s refreshing to find a movie that engages on every level and leaves with many questions. This was such a great film to review as I felt I could analyse it in so many ways.
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SLIP/THROUGH - Dan said:
i really enjoyed your analysis too… man, i wish every movie made us think about what’s going on as much as Ex Machina did
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vinnieh said:
I wish the same thing too.
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Hypersonic55 said:
Yes man! I really loved this film and I’m glad when anyone gets to experience it and express their satisfaction with the film because it is THAT good. I really liked the tone, sense of creepiness and atmosphere, but most of all I loved how this film kept me guess and had me look at all three characters as people who I should or shouldn’t be trusted.
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vinnieh said:
Thanks man. I think the effectiveness of the film lies in that you are never sure which character to root for as they are all questionable in one way or another.
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HusbandAndHusband said:
That robot is so freaky looking! The movie sounds really interesting. It has been awhile since I’ve watched a science fiction movie.
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vinnieh said:
The way they design Ava is to look unusual but very sensual at the same time. I reckon you two would dig this movie.
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HusbandAndHusband said:
We should check it out! You always have such great recommendations.
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vinnieh said:
I reckon you guys would dig this movie.
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The Wandering Mind said:
I’ve been meaning to watch this film.
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vinnieh said:
It’s an excellent movie, I highly recommend it.
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Anastasia said:
I just watched this a week ago and I really didn’t expect to like it as much as I did! Especially the ending, like was it her plan a along.
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vinnieh said:
I loved how the movie kept you on your toes and you really didn’t know who to trust.
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thoughtsallsorts said:
I’ve been ooming and aahing about this one – sounds like I should just give it a go. The trailer looks so intriguing and like it could be something different for a change. And…predictably, my “To Watch” list grows yest again….
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vinnieh said:
It’s very intriguing and engrossing. Visually and story wise, it’s a top notch movie that has you thinking.
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thoughtsallsorts said:
Great – I’ll definitely give it a shot. Enjoy an intelligent movie that has my brain working.
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vinnieh said:
Oh this will keep your mind working alright. And as you’ve been a good follower and supporter, I thought you’d like this post. https://vinnieh.wordpress.com/2015/08/11/love-your-bum/
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thoughtsallsorts said:
Oh, oh, oh…now you’ve made me just “have” to pull out Shame 😉 Just to see that Fassbender bum a bit more!
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vinnieh said:
Ladies are my thing, but even I can’t deny that his bum isn’t amazing.
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thoughtsallsorts said:
Gosh…now look what you’ve done…I’m thinking about cute male bums…ha. ha. Well…I’m really going to go now with Saturday evening rolling in! Enjoy the rest of your weekend.
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vinnieh said:
Haha, there’s plenty more posts like thid for you to see.
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