Ex Machina

Going back to 2013, I reviewed Dredd which had a troubled production for writer Alex Garland but was well received and has gained a cult following. Garland would find more problems with his latest film Annihilation which the producers deemed 'too intellectual' and moved its release to Netflix. Thankfully this talented man's career hasn't all been production hell and he found much success with his directorial debut in the shape of 2014's Ex Machina.

Young programmer Caleb (Domhnail Gleeson) wins a prize at work to leave the city for a week and spend time in the woods with his elusive boss Nathan (Oscar Isaac) at his swish modern home. Caleb's awkwardness gradually begins to fade at the two get beyond the employee-employer dynamic that Nathan quickly addresses while they explore the complex house which doubles as an underground science facility. Here, Caleb meets Nathan's AI project Ava (Alicia Vikander) who he wants to run some tests with, and from there I will save you from any spoilers.

Garland wastes little time in introducing the characters and he deserved his screenplay Oscar nomination for creating such a smart, tense and intriguing thriller. For me, the best of the film is the complex dynamic between Gleeson and Isaac who's relationship would never be simple but Garland deserves more credit for his expert direction. And of course there is Vikander's standout performance that, like a reflection to the film, is straightforward but all the more complex as you unravel the film in your mind after watching.

Ex Machina has that magic quality of not being just another forgettable thriller, and one that will make you think about it long after watching. It's visually gorgeous, well acted, thought provoking and should not be missed. Hopefully Garland's experience with the release of Annihilation doesn't put him off directing more interesting projects.