Interesting and excellent

Rating: 8/10 (18 October 2011)

I was pleasantly surprised by this one. Very well shot with an eerie atmosphere assisted by one of Clint Mansell's more simple, yet effective soundtracks that brings this unique film to life. The acting started off a bit rough, but greatly improved along the way. Kevin Spacey's voice is a perfect homage to the classic HAL of 2001: A Space Odyssey fame. The movie is relatively low budget for a sci-fi flick, but it certainly doesn't show. The effects and sets are believable (for the most part), and, for once, not really important.
What really is important is the human story told here, one that is never predictable or flat. There are countless "twists" that keep the momentum moving without seeming forced or artificial like a cheap thriller. The moral dilemmas brought up by this film are interesting, but surprisingly not dwelled upon very much. I feel like these could be addressed a little bit more as opposed to just being given in passing, but it's not much of a detractor.
I highly recommend this to sci-fi fans who don't just want explosions and lasers. If you like Blade Runner, chances are you'll like this one too.