April 2025 marks 10 years since the global release of 'Ex Machina'. With AI more of a hot topic in the public consciousness than ever before, we figured it’s the perfect time to reflect on this slick and stylish contemporary classic.
'Ex Machina' follows Caleb, a programmer who after winning a competition at work, finds himself invited to spend a week at the futuristic, remote home of his enigmatic CEO Nathan. Once there, Caleb is tasked with determining whether Ava, a robot with astonishingly human traits, possesses true consciousness. What begins as a seemingly straightforward Turing test quickly becomes a layered dance of trust, power, and ethical ambiguity as everything is not what it seems.
Essentially, 'Ex Machina' is a reflection and meditation on the blurred boundaries between man and machine. The film uses the Turing test not only as a scientific measure, but also as a metaphor for human connection in an increasingly digital landscape.
As Caleb engages with Ava, and their relationship develops, the lines between genuine emotion and programmed responses begin to blur, prompting us as viewers to question our own definitions of consciousness. Ten years ago, the film’s exploration of artificial intelligence felt like a glimpse into a future not yet arrived, but it has unquestionably grown more relevant today with the rapid advances in neural networks and generative AI.
What really allows this movie to build on the fascinating themes at its core is the excellent performances of the small cast. Domhnall Gleeson brings a sincere vulnerability and relatability to Caleb, a character caught in a conflict between curiosity and caution. Oscar Isaac’s portrayal of Nathan is measured and enigmatic, perfectly capturing the hubris and complexity of a tech visionary. We never really know what to think about him, and whether we can trust him. Ava, the film’s centrepiece, is masterfully played by Alicia Vikander. Her performance walks a fine line between human empathy and the uncanny, reinforcing the tension at the core of this film. We have to say, for a film that is mostly just 3 characters talking, it is a testament to the actors’ performances just how gripping and engaging it is.
Visually, this movie is a fantastic watch, thanks to its minimalist elegance. The austere and modern design of Nathan’s home, coupled with the smart use of reflective surfaces and lighting, help create an atmosphere that is both sleek and introspective. These visual choices not only enhance the narrative but also mirror the film’s ongoing dialogue about transparency and hidden depths. The clever interplay of light and shadow serves as a constant reminder that what you see, might only be a part of the story.
Ultimately, in our opinion 'Ex Machina' has aged exceptionally over the last ten years. It deftly combines style and substance, and challenges viewers to reflect on their relationship with technology, all while offering a visually engaging and thought-provoking experience. Whether you’re revisiting this modern classic or discovering it for the first time, 'Ex Machina' continues to hold a mirror up to our evolving digital selves, which in an era dominated by artificial intelligence, makes it a must-watch.
Still credits: “Ex Machina — The Control of Information” uploaded to YouTube by Lessons from the Screenplay
