THE ELECTRIC STATE: Too Many Archetypes Hurt the Film [REVIEW]

The Russo Brothers are back. They have created a science fiction fairy tale—or perhaps more of a fantasy fable with elements of sci-fi—by blending together a multitude of themes. Did it work? Critics say no. Viewers as well, but I believe their opinions are influenced by the Russo Brothers’ past works and their own age. The Electric State incorporates so many motifs that it can be easy to get lost in them. For seasoned sci-fi fans, they will seem familiar and obvious, but younger viewers—the film’s target audience—may experience them differently. And that deserves recognition. Visually, the film is truly stunning and can be mesmerizing. Netflix really put in the effort. I can only recommend it as one of the more intriguing teen science fiction films of the year so far.

The Russo Brothers assembled an impressive cast. Millie Bobby Brown delivers a very convincing performance in the lead role. The legendary Ke Huy Quan also appears, alongside Stanley Tucci and Giancarlo Esposito. This lineup suggests that the directors had ambitious goals—to create a grand cinematic experience dealing with profound humanistic values. In some ways, they succeeded. Together with the screenwriters, they crafted an intricate plot about two young protagonists drawn into a post-apocalyptic battle against robots. But are the robots really to blame? That’s one of the most interesting aspects of the film.

At over two hours long, the movie features frequent location changes and a substantial amount of sufficiently complex dialogue, making it almost intelligent. While the directors relied heavily on well-known sci-fi tropes, they still managed to maintain a fresh narrative. However, the real challenge lies in the sheer number of these archetypes and references to classic sci-fi films. For those familiar with them, the movie may feel less impressive, as they will see only patterns.

Recognizing these patterns leads to judgment—did the film copy them well? Was it innovative, or just derivative? The verdict is usually the latter, as the original tropes hold immense power over sci-fi fans. This may explain the film’s low ratings—many longtime fans may not have realized that, first and foremost, The Electric State is meant for a younger audience. Secondly, it deliberately draws from and reinterprets these tropes in an excellent way. Just look at the robot designs, listen to the soundtrack (which, while stylistically inferior, aims for the grandeur of Star Wars), and observe the acting—crafted with precision by experienced actors familiar with the sci-fi genre. Even Brown’s performance was solid, which might surprise some viewers. I’ve already seen such comments online.

Editing and directing are of a high standard. The action flows smoothly, and no scene feels disconnected from the rest. The suspense is maintained, although some humor might feel childish—but again, The Electric State is aimed at a younger audience. Older viewers won’t find deep psychological dramas here. However, the screenwriters did incorporate some transhumanist themes, exploring human evolution, sentient machines, and even the concept of the soul—whether a machine can possess one, how it might simulate human emotions, and whether, if it truly feels, it should be considered human. If so, what rights should it have? Should they be equal to ours?

This dilemma is at the heart of the human-machine conflict and drives the story forward. In this ruined world, the main character discovers a robot that appears friendly—yet could be a dangerous tool, or possibly a lifeline for a young girl hardened by life’s experiences. See for yourself what fate awaits her in the vibrant world of the Russo Brothers.