Introduction
“The Electric State,” directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, is a 2025 American science fiction action-adventure film that has garnered significant attention due to its ambitious production and star-studded cast. Based on Simon Stålenhag’s 2018 illustrated novel, the film presents a retro-futuristic narrative set in an alternate 1990s. Despite its high expectations, the movie has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Plot Overview
Set in a dystopian version of the 1990s, “The Electric State” follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), an orphaned teenager who embarks on a journey across the American West. Accompanied by a sentient robot named Cosmo and a smuggler named Keats (Chris Pratt), Michelle seeks to uncover the truth behind her younger brother Christopher’s disappearance. Their adventure leads them through a landscape marked by the remnants of a failed robot uprising and the oppressive control of the corporation Sentre, headed by CEO Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci). The narrative delves into themes of family, identity, and resistance against authoritarian control.
Cast and Characters
- Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown): The protagonist, a determined teenager searching for her lost brother.
- Keats (Chris Pratt): A former soldier turned smuggler who aids Michelle on her quest.
- Cosmo (voiced by Alan Tudyk): A sentient robot with a cartoonish design, providing both companionship and assistance to Michelle.
- Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci): The CEO of Sentre, representing the oppressive corporate regime.
- Supporting Cast: The film features performances by Ke Huy Quan, Jason Alexander, Giancarlo Esposito, Woody Harrelson, Anthony Mackie, Brian Cox, Jenny Slate, and Hank Azaria, among others.
Production and Release
Announced in 2017, the adaptation of Stålenhag’s novel underwent several changes before the Russo brothers took the helm in December 2020. Filming commenced in Atlanta, Georgia, during the fall of 2024. With a reported budget of $320 million, “The Electric State” stands as one of the most expensive films ever produced. The movie premiered at Grauman’s Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles on February 24, 2025, and became available for streaming on Netflix on March 14, 2025.
Critical Reception
Upon release, “The Electric State” received predominantly negative reviews from critics, holding a 15% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics cited issues with the film’s pacing, narrative coherence, and deviation from the source material. Despite the critical panning, the film achieved a 79% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6/10 rating on IMDb, indicating a more favorable reception among general viewers.
Visual and Thematic Elements
The film attempts to capture the unique aesthetic of Stålenhag’s artwork, depicting a world where advanced technology and retro elements coexist. However, some reviewers noted that the visual execution lacked the depth and nuance of the original illustrations, resulting in a “muddy” color palette that failed to evoke the intended atmosphere. Thematically, the movie explores the consequences of technological overreach, the nature of human-robot relationships, and the struggle for autonomy in a surveillance state.
Box Office and Viewership
Despite its critical reception, “The Electric State” debuted at number one on Netflix’s top 10 list, amassing 25.2 million views in its first three days. However, viewership declined rapidly, with the film dropping to number five within a week. This swift decline raised questions about Netflix’s investment strategies, especially considering the film’s substantial budget.
Conclusion
“The Electric State” serves as a testament to the challenges of adapting visually driven narratives into feature films. While boasting an impressive cast and ambitious production values, the movie struggled to resonate with critics and maintain its initial viewership momentum. Its release has sparked discussions about the efficacy of high-budget streaming exclusives and the importance of staying true to source material in adaptations.Business Insider
