Transcendence – a sci-fi thriller that ponders the existential questions swirling around artificial intelligence and the essence of humanity – marks the directorial debut of experienced cinematographer, Wally Pfister (perhaps best-known for his work with Christopher Nolan). The film features the acting talents of Johnny Depp and Morgan Freeman.
By Keeva Stratton
In a Berkley science department in the near future, renowned researcher Will Caster (Depp) is working on a controversial and revolutionary artificial intelligence system. He finds himself under attack from an activist threat, and in the aftermath, is fighting for his life.
His partner in the lab and in life, Evelyn Caster (Rebecca Hall), realises that their time together might be short, and she makes the decision to ‘upload’ her husband’s brain into the AI system. Motivated by her need to keep her husband alive, her radical decision is not without its consequences.
It divides her colleagues and friends, who had only ever used animal brains as the basis for the AI system. As a system that continues to grow and evolve, Will soon takes artificial intelligence to advanced levels never before seen.
The controversial technology must remain hidden to keep it safe from the terrorist threat, but as its own power grows, it soon becomes a threat in itself – and the lines between right and wrong, good and evil, begin to blur.
Is Will too powerful? Or, is he really just an evolved version of the good man he once was?
While Transcendence attempts to address the ongoing tension between the role of advancing technology and that of morality, it also raises many existential ponderings, leading the film in a number of directions, none of which support the other particularly well.
The addition of Morgan Freeman as a former colleague of Will’s, and Paul Bettany as the morally conflicted academic friend, Max, are underutilised. Kate Mara as the leader of the rebellion also feels like a misfire.
While I adore Johnny Depp, he was poorly cast here. The complex character fell flat with his often-monotone delivery. The usually quirky Depp was unable to find the right balance between brilliant scientific mind, devout lover and world dominator—but the very fact that his character demanded these varied elements was perhaps where the film was flawed.
Wally Pfister, who is better known for his exceptional DOP work, has directed his first film in Transcendence that, as can be expected, looks visually fantastic, but otherwise falls short.
Part apocalyptic thriller, part dystopian fantasy, part existential conundrum, sadly the sum of all these parts simply does not quite add up.
Directed by: Wally Pfister
Starring: Johnny Depp, Rebecca Hall, Paul Bettany, Morgan Freeman
Rating: M
Runtime: 119mins
Release Date: April 24
Reviewer rating: 2.5/5
