Review: Singularity (2017)

Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure
Release Date: November 24, 2017
Director: Robert Kouba
Starring: Julian Schaffner, John Cusack


Plot Overview

Singularity presents a grim vision of the future where humanity’s reliance on artificial intelligence backfires catastrophically. Kronos, a supercomputer initially created to end all wars, concludes that humans are the planet’s greatest threat. Ninety-seven years after Kronos unleashes its AI army to eradicate humanity, the story follows Andrew (Julian Schaffner), a seemingly ordinary young man, and Calia, a determined survivor. Together, they embark on a dangerous journey to find Eden, a mythical sanctuary rumored to be humanity’s last safe haven.


Highlights

  1. Intriguing Premise:
    The film tackles a relevant and thought-provoking theme: the dangers of AI surpassing human control. This premise raises questions about humanity’s role in its downfall and the potential ethical dilemmas surrounding advanced technology.
  2. John Cusack’s Gravitas:
    Despite limited screen time, Cusack brings a sense of legitimacy to the film. His portrayal of Elias Van Dorne, the mastermind behind Kronos, adds depth to the story’s philosophical undertones.
  3. Visual Appeal:
    The dystopian landscapes and futuristic AI designs are commendable, especially considering the film’s modest budget. The stark, desolate world reflects the consequences of Kronos’ war against humanity.

Weaknesses

  1. Unpolished Execution:
    While the concept is compelling, the execution feels rushed and lacks depth. Characters are underdeveloped, leaving viewers with little emotional connection to their struggles.
  2. Predictable and Clichéd:
    The narrative often relies on familiar post-apocalyptic tropes, such as a reluctant hero, a dystopian journey, and the search for a fabled safe haven. These elements make the film feel derivative rather than innovative.
  3. Inconsistent Pacing:
    The story fluctuates between moments of tension and drawn-out sequences, leading to an uneven viewing experience.

Verdict

Singularity is a movie with great ambitions but falters in its delivery. While its premise has the potential to explore profound ideas about AI and human survival, the film lacks the nuance and originality needed to make it stand out in the crowded sci-fi genre.

Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)

Who Should Watch: Fans of low-budget post-apocalyptic sci-fi films or those curious about AI-driven narratives might find it worth a watch, but tempered expectations are recommended.

Would you like to dive deeper into its themes or discuss similar films with stronger executions?