Ex Ava.

Rating: 7/10 (15 May 2015)

Ex Machina (2015): Dir: Alex Garland / Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac, Alicia Vikander, Sonoya Mizuno, Corey Johnson: Innovative independent science fiction thriller starring Oscar Isaac as a Steve Jobs type named Nathan, a billionaire who owns an Internet search engine called Bluebook. Domhnall Gleeson plays Caleb, employed at Bluebook and picked to spend a week at Nathan's massive isolated compound where he does his research. A helicopter lands in a field with Caleb instructed where to walk. The compound features walls of thick bulletproof glass that can only be opened via identification card. Alicia Vikander as Ava is a sight to see. When she first appears to Caleb viewers are as in awe as he is. Nathan's big project involves artificial intelligence with Ava being a test subject for Caleb to interact with. Vikander uses her eyes to convey feeling to Caleb. She is responsible for brief power failures where she informs him that Nathan cannot be trusted. Isaac as Nathan is brilliant but his alcoholism becomes a weakness when his overconfidence is threatened. Gleeson as Caleb is overcome by lust and learns that there are consequences. Sonoya Mizuno appears in an android role with no dialogue. She is Nathan's servant who also breaks out in a dance sequence during one late night session. There are no other major characters aside from a briefly seen helicopter pilot. Director Alex Garland addresses how technology can overwhelm us even when we believe we are the dominant creation. As Ava observes briefly, humanity is completely unaware of the forces they purchase and trust. Score: 7 ½ / 10