What is The Electric State About?

Netflix has been making waves in the sci-fi genre, and one of its most ambitious projects to date is The Electric State. Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the duo behind Avengers: Endgame, the film is based on the illustrated novel of the same name by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag. With a star-studded cast, a budget of $300 million, and a visually stunning world, The Electric State was expected to be a groundbreaking cinematic experience. But what exactly is the movie about? Let's take a closer look at the story, its inspirations, and what makes it stand out.

A Journey Through a Retro-Futuristic Wasteland

At its core, The Electric State is a road-trip adventure set in an alternate 1990s America, where technology has taken a dark turn. The story follows Michelle, played by Millie Bobby Brown, a rebellious young woman who embarks on a cross-country journey with her robot companion, Cosmo. Her mission? To find her missing brother, who has disappeared into a mysterious digital world that has consumed much of humanity.

The world of The Electric State is both eerie and mesmerizing. It’s a place where enormous, abandoned war machines litter the landscape, remnants of a battle between artificial intelligence and humanity. Despite the destruction, people continue to live in a society dominated by virtual reality, where many have chosen to escape into a digital existence rather than face the bleak reality of the real world.

A Unique Blend of Sci-Fi and Nostalgia

One of the most striking aspects of The Electric State is its aesthetic. The film draws inspiration from Stålenhag’s artwork, which blends futuristic technology with a retro, 1950s-style vision of progress. Think Stranger Things meets Blade Runner, with a touch of Mad Max thrown in for good measure.

This blend of old and new creates a world that feels both familiar and alien. Massive server towers glow ominously in the distance, while decayed roadside diners and neon signs remind us of a lost era. The contrast between these elements adds a haunting beauty to the film’s setting, making it visually distinct from other sci-fi movies.

The Characters and Their Journey

Michelle, the film’s protagonist, is a tough and determined young woman who refuses to give up on her brother. Throughout her journey, she encounters a mix of allies and foes, including:

Cosmo: Her loyal robot companion, who is piloted remotely by her brother. Cosmo communicates using pre-recorded catchphrases, making him both endearing and tragic.

Keats (Chris Pratt): A scavenger who helps Michelle navigate the dangerous wasteland. His character adds humor and charm but also raises questions about his true intentions.

Dr. Hurley (Stanley Tucci): The film’s antagonist, a powerful figure who wants to keep people plugged into his dystopian digital empire.

Marshall (Giancarlo Esposito): A ruthless enforcer sent to stop Michelle from disrupting the system.

These characters add layers of depth to the story, making Michelle’s journey more than just a simple rescue mission—it’s also a fight for humanity’s future.

Themes of Technology and Humanity

While The Electric State is an action-packed adventure, it also explores deeper themes about technology’s role in our lives. The film poses thought-provoking questions:

What happens when people become too dependent on technology?

Can artificial intelligence ever truly replace human connection?

Is escapism through virtual reality a solution or a problem?

The movie doesn’t offer easy answers but instead presents a world where these issues have already spiraled out of control. It serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflection of our current relationship with technology.

How It Compares to the Book

Fans of Stålenhag’s novel may notice significant differences between the book and the movie. While the original story was a quiet, melancholic journey told through haunting illustrations and diary-like entries, the film takes a more action-oriented approach.

The Russos have added more characters, dialogue, and high-stakes moments to make the film more commercially appealing. Some purists may find this disappointing, but others might appreciate the expanded storytelling and dynamic performances.

Visual Effects and Cinematic Experience

Given its massive budget, The Electric State boasts impressive special effects. The film brings Stålenhag’s artwork to life with realistic CGI, detailed robot designs, and breathtaking landscapes.

One of the standout aspects is the design of the robots, especially Cosmo, whose intricate moving parts and expressive features make him feel almost human. The large-scale battle sequences and chase scenes add excitement, making it a visual spectacle worthy of the big screen.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Sci-Fi Fans?

The Electric State is an ambitious film that blends nostalgia, sci-fi, and adventure into a unique cinematic experience. While it may not be a perfect adaptation of the book, it offers a thrilling ride with strong performances and stunning visuals.

If you enjoy thought-provoking science fiction with a mix of action and emotion, this movie is definitely worth watching. Whether you’re drawn in by Millie Bobby Brown’s performance, the stunning world-building, or the film’s deeper themes, The Electric State is sure to leave a lasting impression.