Movie Review: Upgrade (2018)
If you’re fascinated by the intersection of technology and humanity, Upgrade (2018) is a film that shouldn’t be missed. Its blend of intense action, innovative visuals, and thought-provoking themes makes it a standout in the sci-fi genre. Revisit this tech noir triumph and experience the thrilling journey of Grey Trace as he navigates a world where man and machine collide.
Upgrade, directed by Leigh Whannell, is a thrilling sci-fi film that masterfully blends elements of action, horror, and technology-driven noir. Released in 2018, this film takes viewers on a dark and exhilarating ride through a future where technology can enhance human capabilities in unimaginable ways, but at a significant cost.
The story centers on Grey Trace (Logan Marshall-Green), a technophobe in a world where artificial intelligence and automation have taken over most aspects of daily life. Grey’s life takes a tragic turn when a brutal mugging leaves him paralyzed and his wife dead. Enter STEM, an experimental AI implant that gives Grey the ability to walk again and more. But as Grey becomes an unstoppable force in his quest for vengeance, he also becomes increasingly entangled in STEM’s sinister agenda.
What sets Upgrade apart is its innovative approach to storytelling and action. Whannell’s direction is sharp and purposeful, using the camera to mirror Grey’s physical transformations and augmented abilities. The fight scenes are particularly noteworthy, choreographed with precision and creativity, and executed in a style that feels fresh and dynamic. The way the camera moves in sync with Grey’s body, creating a sense of fluidity and disorientation, is both visually stunning and thematically resonant.
Logan Marshall-Green delivers a compelling performance as Grey. He convincingly portrays the character’s journey from a grieving husband to a reluctant hero, and ultimately, to a man grappling with the loss of control over his own body and mind. His physicality in the role, combined with the emotional depth he brings to the character, anchors the film and makes Grey’s plight both relatable and gripping.
The film’s production design and special effects are also top-notch. The near-future setting is depicted with a gritty realism, blending advanced technology with a grounded, almost dystopian aesthetic. The visual effects used to bring STEM to life are seamless, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing the story.
Upgrade doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes such as the ethical implications of AI and the consequences of technological dependency. The film raises thought-provoking questions about free will, identity, and the potential dangers of merging man with machine. These themes are woven into the narrative with subtlety, adding layers of depth to what could have been a straightforward revenge thriller.
However, one minor criticism is that some of the supporting characters, particularly the antagonists, feel underdeveloped. While Grey’s journey is well fleshed out, the villains’ motivations could have been explored in greater detail to add more nuance to the story.
Upgrade is a standout film that offers a unique and thrilling take on the sci-fi genre. With its inventive action sequences, strong central performance, and thoughtful exploration of technology’s darker side, it’s a movie that leaves a lasting impression. For fans of tech noir and action-packed thrillers, Upgrade is a must-see that remains relevant and engaging even years after its release.
