Film 4 is broadcasting what fans are calling a terrifyingly prescient vision of our technological future tonight with the screening of the 'brilliant' sci-fi film Ex Machina.
A Glimpse into the AI Future
Written and directed by Alex Garland in his directorial debut, the 2014 film features Oscar-winner Alicia Vikander as Ava, a captivating humanoid robot. Garland first conceived the idea as an 11-year-old experimenting with coding on his parents' computer. His deep research into consciousness, including discussions with a neuroscientist friend who doubted machine sentience, fuels the film's compelling central question: can robots truly think?
As artificial intelligence advances at a breakneck pace, viewers are finding Ex Machina's themes more relevant than ever, with many seeing it as a window into a future that is rapidly approaching.
The Plot: A Test of Consciousness and Trust
The story follows Caleb Smith, a programmer portrayed by Domhnall Gleeson, who wins a competition to visit the remote, luxurious estate of his reclusive CEO, Nathan, played by Oscar Isaac. After signing a strict non-disclosure agreement, Caleb is given a startling task: to interact with the advanced android Ava and determine if she possesses genuine consciousness and if her claims about her creator are to be believed.
The film masterfully builds tension as Caleb must decide whether Ava is expressing true sentience or expertly manipulating him for her own ends.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Praise
Upon its release in 2015, Ex Machina was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $36.8 million globally against a $15 million budget. It was celebrated for its intelligent screenplay, stunning visual effects, and powerful performances.
The film's excellence was recognised with an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, and Garland received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. It also garnered five BAFTA nominations, including a Best Supporting Actress nod for Vikander, who received a similar nomination at the Golden Globes.
Fans on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, where the film holds a stellar 92% rating, continue to echo this praise. One viewer raved, 'Whether you are into sci-fi or not, this is a must see!! Fantastic film!'
Another highlighted its foresight, stating, 'One of the greatest concepts of exactly what the future in artificial intelligence is going to be like... Amazing!' Many appreciate its timely relevance, with one comment noting it 'does a great job of depicting the realities in which we live today.'
The film is also praised for proving that a compelling sci-fi story doesn't require a bloated budget, relying instead on a small, talented cast, a sharp script, and slowly building tension.
Ex Machina airs on Film 4 at 9pm tonight, Friday 21 November.
