The Russos’ New Netflix Movie Has No Juice

Overview of The Electric State

The Electric State on Netflix presents a post-war world where mechanical characters roam in a dystopian wasteland. While the premise seems promising, the execution falls short of the source material’s haunting beauty.

Background of The Electric State

The Electric State draws inspiration from a 2018 illustrated novel by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag, depicting an alternate 1990s dystopia with remnants of 1950s-style technology. The adaptation, however, deviates significantly from the original, focusing more on a generic plot and cluttered characters.

Main Characters and Plot

Millie Bobby Brown stars as Michelle, embarking on a road trip with a big-headed corporate droid named Kid Cosmo. Along the way, they encounter various quirky companions, adding little depth to the narrative. The film’s emphasis on humor and action detracts from the loneliness and introspection of the original story.

Visual Effects and Production

Despite its shortcomings, The Electric State boasts impressive visual effects, thanks to Netflix’s hefty investment in the movie. The digital creations are detailed and visually appealing, contributing to the film’s slick aesthetic.

Critique of The Electric State

The Electric State’s shift towards a more mainstream, formulaic approach, reminiscent of Marvel blockbusters, dilutes the unique atmosphere of the source material. The movie attempts to convey a cautionary message about overreliance on technology but lacks coherence in its delivery.

Conclusion

The Electric State, while visually appealing, fails to capture the essence of the original illustrated novel. Its reliance on humor and action sequences sacrifices the haunting beauty and introspective nature of the source material, resulting in a generic and forgettable viewing experience.