The Electric State (2025) – A Visually Stunning but Emotionally Lacking Sci-Fi Adventure

-

 The Electric State (2025)

Directed by: Anthony and Joe Russo
Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Stanley Tucci, Woody Norman
Streaming on: Netflix

Introduction

The Electric State is one of the most anticipated sci-fi films of 2025, helmed by the renowned Russo brothers. Based on Simon Stålenhag's graphic novel of the same name, the film takes viewers into a retro-futuristic 1990s America, where robots once coexisted with humans before being exiled after a catastrophic uprising. With an intriguing premise, a visually captivating world, and an all-star cast, does the film live up to expectations? Let's dive in.

Plot Overview

The story follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), a teenage orphan who embarks on a journey to find her missing brother, Christopher (Woody Norman). Accompanied by a sentient robot named Cosmo and a mysterious smuggler, Keats (Chris Pratt), Michelle travels through a desolate yet technologically advanced America. Along the way, she faces numerous challenges, including an authoritarian force that seeks to control robotic technology for its own gain.

Visuals and World-Building

One of the film's biggest strengths is its breathtaking visual presentation. The Russo brothers, along with their talented VFX team, have meticulously crafted a world that seamlessly blends CGI with live-action elements. The robots are stunningly designed, and the retro-futuristic aesthetic feels immersive and original. The film's color grading, set design, and cinematography contribute to its eerie yet fascinating atmosphere, making it a visual treat.

Performance and Character Development

Millie Bobby Brown delivers a solid performance as Michelle, effectively portraying the character’s determination and resilience. However, her emotional depth is often undercut by a screenplay that fails to develop her relationships meaningfully. Chris Pratt’s portrayal of Keats, while serviceable, lacks nuance and feels somewhat one-dimensional. Stanley Tucci, who plays the film’s antagonist Ethan Skate, is unfortunately underutilized, leaving much to be desired in terms of character complexity.

Story and Pacing Issues

Despite its strong visual elements, The Electric State struggles in storytelling. The film’s pacing is uneven, often meandering through repetitive action sequences that fail to elevate tension. At over two hours long, the story feels unnecessarily stretched, making the viewing experience more tedious than thrilling.



While the movie tries to inject emotional weight into Michelle’s journey, it falls short of delivering a truly compelling narrative.

Critical Reception

The film has received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences alike:

  • The Guardian labeled it as “a very bland and derivative sci-fi adventure”, criticizing its lack of originality and emotional engagement.
  • Casey’s Movie Mania called it “surprisingly dull”, stating that the film fails to capitalize on its intriguing premise.
  • Rotten Tomatoes currently rates the film at a disappointing 23% approval, reflecting the overall lack of enthusiasm from viewers.

Conclusion: Worth Watching?

The Electric State is a classic example of style over substance. While its visually stunning landscapes and unique world-building are commendable, the film ultimately falls flat due to its weak character development, inconsistent pacing, and lackluster emotional depth. Fans of sci-fi aesthetics may find enjoyment in the film’s visual artistry, but those seeking a gripping, well-rounded narrative may be left disappointed.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Have you watched The Electric State? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Carry On – A High-Intensity Netflix Thriller That Keeps You Hooked

-
Image
Netflix’s Carry On is an electrifying thriller that delivers non-stop tension and high-stakes drama. From the very first scene, this film grabs your attention and doesn’t let go, making it one of the most intense movies to hit the streaming platform in recent times. A Gripping Storyline with Flawless Execution The movie thrives on its well-paced screenplay, ensuring that every moment keeps the audience engaged. Unlike other thrillers that tend to get overly complex, Carry On excels with an easy-to-follow yet deeply immersive plot. The direction is sharp, making sure that every twist and turn heightens the suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The storytelling is seamless, with no unnecessary diversions, making the film a gripping experience from start to finish. Stunning Performance by the Lead Actor The hero of Carry On delivers a jaw-dropping performance, bringing raw intensity and emotion to every scene. His gripping portrayal adds layers to the character, making ...
Read more

Captain America: Brave New World – Everything You Need to Know

-
Image
Captain America: Brave New World – A Confusing Mix of MCU Elements Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World was expected to be a bold new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but instead, it turned out to be a convoluted attempt at connecting past and present storylines. While it starts by linking itself to The Incredible Hulk and other Captain America films, the movie soon veers off into Eternals territory, leaving audiences with a tangled web of plotlines and numerous loose ends. A Messy Narrative with No Clear Direction One of the biggest flaws of Brave New World is its lack of a cohesive storyline. With more than four writers contributing to the script, the film struggles with consistency, failing to maintain a smooth flow. The result is a disjointed narrative that jumps between different themes and characters without giving them proper depth or resolution. Marvel, once known for its meticulous planning and seamless storytelling, seems to be losing its grip ...
Read more

Flow (2025) – The Oscar-Winning Best Animated Feature

-
Image
When it comes to animated films, storytelling often relies on dialogue, expressive characters, and vibrant settings. But Flow (2025), directed by Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis, defies expectations by delivering a stunning, dialogue-free narrative that captures both the heart and the imagination. Its groundbreaking approach and breathtaking animation earned it the prestigious Oscar for Best Animated Feature , cementing its place as one of the year’s most remarkable films. A Journey Through a Mysterious World At its core, Flow tells the story of a lone black cat navigating a world that has been reclaimed by nature. The absence of human presence is palpable, and the film’s flooded landscapes create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. Along the way, the cat encounters a Labrador, a capybara, a lemur, and a secretary bird—each with their own distinct personalities and survival instincts. Together, they embark on an odyssey, braving obstacles and forging an unspoken bond. A Visual an...
Read more