The Electric State, directed by the Russo brothers, transports viewers to an alternate version of 1994, where robots and humans survived the aftermath of a devastating war. The film, based on Simon Stålenhag's graphic novel, features young orphan Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown) who embarks on a quest to find her brother Christopher, believed to be dead. She is joined by Cosmo, a lovable robot, and Keats (Chris Pratt), a smuggler, leading to thrilling encounters with nefarious figures from tech giant Sentre.
The story unravels critically when Michelle learns from Dr. Amherst (Ke Huy Quan) about the tragic truth behind Christopher's fate. Previously thought to be dead following their family's involvement in the war, he was actually kept alive by Sentre, his mind powering the Neurocaster technology. Dr. Amherst reveals, "We needed an impossible amount of computer power to run the network. Your brother's mind was the breakthrough Skate needed to link the Neurocasters and the drones." Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci), the tech mogul behind the company, saw Christopher as the key to control drones, manipulating the narrative to conceal the reality of Christopher's existence.
Despite being unconscious, Christopher's consciousness manages to communicate with Cosmo, prompting Michelle to move from her old life to find him. With Cosmo's help, she confronts Colonel Marshall Bradbury (Giancarlo Esposito), who is sent by Skate to retrieve the rogue robot. Michelle’s resolve intensifies when she virtually reunites with Christopher. Yet, he reveals the heartbreaking choice she must make to save him and humanity, saying, "I think I need to die. And I think you need to be the one to do it." This emotional climax forces Michelle to confront the depth of her sacrifices.
Tragically, Michelle disconnects Christopher's life support, leading to Sentre’s downfall as all of its drones power down. Following this momentous victory, Skate faces the consequences of his actions as footage of his experiments surfaces, leading to his arrest. Michale's and Christopher's bond intensifies the emotional weight of the story, encapsulating their struggles and sacrifices. The movie communicates themes of human connection versus technological dependence, urging viewers to reflect on their interactions with technology.
From the junkyard, the film closes with ambiguity around Christopher’s fate. Cosmo's lifeless form is seen, yet at the last moment, it appears to turn toward a nearby dog, hinting at the possibility of Christopher's consciousness surviving within Cosmo. This evocative ending leaves viewers pondering whether Christopher may yet be reunited with his sister, potentially hinting at future explorations of their story.
Michelle’s parting message resonates throughout the film and amplifies its relevance to contemporary society. She stresses the importance of human connections, stating, "It can only happen out here, in the real world. Look around, there's someone near you right now. They're real and alive. And they need you as much as you need them." The film successfully juxtaposes her poignant message against societal addiction to technology, making it clear: genuine experiences and connections shape our world more than virtual ones.
The Electric State invites viewers not only to enjoy its thrilling narrative but also to confront the clashing dynamics of humanity and technology. Its messages, characters, and emotional arcs intertwine to create both suspense and optimism, affirming the enduring power of human connections even amid technological turmoil.
Now available on Netflix, The Electric State is more than just a sci-fi film. It serves as both entertainment and reflection on our relationships with technology and each other, leaving audiences to question what it means to truly connect.