By Riaz Mamdani
Staff Writer
Even though technology is launching society forward at high speeds, with the internet conquering all, mankind also seems to be moving backwards in a societal sense, as not all advancements are for the better.
The film “Transcendence,” directed by Wally Pfister, explores these pros and cons of the increasingly-digitalized world, which despite this fascinating premise, is weighed down by a convoluted storyline. Nevertheless, the film’s acting and writing keeps the audience hooked, taking viewers on an intellectual, electrifying journey through a dystopian world.
The futuristic flick centers around Dr. Will Caster (Johnny Depp), who after being shot by a group of neo-Luddite radicals, has his consciousness uploaded into a sentient mini-frame computer PINN by his wife Evelyn (Rebecca Hall). The device he virtually becomes is one of his own inventions, and the transfer is intended to save his psyche and allow him to achieve a digital afterlife, where he lives within the realm of the internet.
The film focuses heavily on Evelyn’s journey to help artificially preserve her husband in a digital computer. But despite her desperate intentions, it leads her into a moral dilemma with the ethics of Caster’s quasi-human computer. However, as time progresses, more conflicting forces begin to plague the future widow.
For instance, a group called R.I.F.T. aspires to eradicate all forms of technology, and in its pursuit of destruction, the group, led by the peroxide-blonde Bree (Kate Mara), attacks Evelyn in her preservatory journey. The moral dilemmas that arise in the conflict only adds to the philosophical labyrinth that is “Transcendence.”
The complicated plotline does become tiresome, though, despite its superficially- exciting premise. Specifically, the screenplay, by Jack Paglen, is dense, fast and unique, but at times, baffling. It is clear that Caster’s experimental automation is becoming malignant, as he begins rapidly absorbing every bit of data on the Internet. The entirety of the film reaches blindly for an emotional response from the audience, but without a focus, the story’s ambiguity makes the film’s message hard to digest.
For a high-budget, technologically-centered film like “Transcendence” to succeed, a developed plot is essential. However, the film’s convolution leaves audiences confused and unable to discern the actual focus of the flick, resulting in a story that is less thought-provoking and more frustrating.
The premise of the film is current and thrilling. Phones and digital media seem to dominate all facets of life, and by exploring the ramifications of such developments, the film receives a social relevancy not generally seen in most releases.
Despite its structural flaws, though, “Transcendence” still features an intriguing premise, which is unfortunately executed poorly.
Overall, “Transcendence” is sharp and provocative, but its lack of a fluid plot makes it mediocre. All other aspects of the film, including Johnny Depp’s visual acting, are exceptional, though not enough to prove entirely redeemable.
“Transcendence” is rated PG-13 and is now playing in theaters nationwide.
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