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The Electric State (2025) is a dystopian sci-fi adventure directed by the Russo Brothers, adapted from Simon Stålenhag's hauntingly surreal graphic novel. Set in an alternate retro-future America devastated by a mysterious drone war, the film follows a teenage girl and her quirky robot as they journey across a crumbling landscape in search of her missing brother.
With sweeping visuals, heavy emotions, and philosophical undertones, The Electric State stands as a postmodern odyssey for a digital age on the edge of collapse.
Plot Summary
In a desolate America where the line between machine and memory is blurred, Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown) travels with her robot companion, Skip, through a barren wasteland populated by the wreckage of failed technology and faded dreams. Armed with a mysterious headset and driven by visions that may or may not be real, Michelle searches for her older brother who disappeared after joining a rebel techno-cult.
Along the way, they encounter rogue AI survivors, scavenger gangs, and whispers of a technological singularity that went horribly wrong. As Michelle follows encrypted messages left behind by her brother, the truth about the war, the electric state, and her own identity begins to unravel.
Character Analysis
Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown)
A determined and emotionally scarred teenager, Michelle is the heart of the story. Her resilience hides a deep grief that the journey slowly heals—or transforms.
Skip (voiced by Ke Huy Quan)
A clunky but lovable relic from a bygone era, Skip offers humor, protection, and unexpected wisdom. His loyalty is fierce, and his glitchy programming masks surprising emotional depth.
Christopher (Michelle’s Brother)
A ghost in the machine—literally and metaphorically—his disappearance propels the plot, but his motivations are as enigmatic as the technology he vanished into.
Dr. Morita (Giancarlo Esposito)
A former engineer turned nomadic philosopher, Morita provides cryptic exposition on the AI collapse and questions whether humanity’s pursuit of progress doomed them all.
Themes and Messages
| Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Technological Decay | The film explores what happens when innovation outpaces ethics, leaving behind a world of broken promises and broken robots. |
| Memory and Grief | Michelle’s journey is as much about mourning as it is about reunion—grappling with how memory can be distorted by technology. |
| Artificial Consciousness | The story poses profound questions about what it means to be “alive,” and whether AI can possess or deserve identity and agency. |
| Human Connection | Even in a world dominated by machines, it is the small acts of kindness and trust that keep Michelle—and the viewer—grounded. |
Cinematography and Direction
The Russo Brothers lean heavily into analog-futurism aesthetics—think 1980s retro designs blended with decaying robotics. Every frame of the movie looks like a melancholic painting, lit with dusty sunlight and overcast skies. The camera lingers on landscapes strewn with mechanical corpses, and intimate close-ups emphasize the emotional toll of Michelle’s journey.
The visual effects are understated but effective, enhancing the loneliness of a world that feels simultaneously distant and familiar. There’s a poetic quality to the pacing, even in moments of danger.
Performances
Millie Bobby Brown: Delivers a hauntingly mature performance, balancing strength and vulnerability in equal measure.
Ke Huy Quan: Brings warmth and dry humor to Skip, a character that could’ve easily been forgettable—but ends up being unforgettable.
Giancarlo Esposito: As always, elevates the material with gravitas and quiet menace, adding philosophical weight to the journey.
Critical Reception
The Electric State has received acclaim for its worldbuilding and emotional storytelling. Critics have praised its thematic ambition and Millie Bobby Brown’s commanding performance. Some noted that its slow pace and cerebral tone may not appeal to traditional action audiences, but most agreed it's a thoughtful, artful entry into the sci-fi genre.
Controversial Opinions
While many applauded the film’s quiet introspection, others felt it lacked urgency or narrative momentum. Detractors argued that the film prioritizes mood over clarity, leaving some plot threads ambiguous. Some viewers also debated whether the film’s tech philosophy was profound or simply pretentious. Yet, for fans of meditative science fiction like Arrival or Her, the ambiguity is part of the allure.
FAQs
- Is The Electric State based on a book?
Yes, it's based on the illustrated novel by Simon Stålenhag, known for Tales from the Loop. - Is the film action-packed?
Not exactly—while it has moments of tension, it’s more of a slow-burning road movie with deep emotions. - What genre is it?
A blend of science fiction, dystopian drama, and philosophical adventure. - Is it family-friendly?
Teens and adults will appreciate it most. Some intense scenes and mature themes may not be suitable for young kids. - Where can I watch it?
It’s expected to release on Netflix after its theatrical run. - Is the robot a main character?
Absolutely. Skip is one of the most beloved parts of the film. - Does it have a happy ending?
That depends on your definition of “happy”—it’s bittersweet and open to interpretation. - Are there any big twists?
Yes, particularly regarding Michelle’s brother and the nature of the world they inhabit. - How long is the film?
Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes. - What’s the core message?
That even in the ruins of a hyperconnected world, human connection is what truly powers the future.