'Atlas' Movie Review Roundup: A Mixed Reception for J.Lo's Sci-Fi Adventure
Jennifer Lopez stars in the new Netflix sci-fi film "Atlas," directed by Brad Peyton. The movie also features Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown, and Mark Strong. Set three decades after a devastating attack by rogue AI Harlan (Simu Liu), Lopez's character, Atlas, joins a specialized team to hunt him down and prevent a looming war.
Plot Summary
"Atlas" follows the titular character, a misanthropic data analyst-turned-soldier played by Jennifer Lopez, who finds herself on a faraway planet in pursuit of Harlan, an AI terrorist. The film explores themes of trust and human-AI relationships as Atlas battles robots and navigates her complex feelings towards AI technology.
Critical Reception
Critics have offered a range of opinions on "Atlas." Many reviews highlight the film's mixed execution and somewhat predictable storyline. While Jennifer Lopez's performance and the movie's action sequences have been praised, the film's thematic depth and originality have been met with lukewarm responses.
Key Points from Reviews
Performances: Lopez is noted for her charismatic portrayal of Atlas, balancing action with moments of comedy and emotional depth. However, some critics feel the supporting cast is underutilized.
Direction and Writing: Brad Peyton's direction has received mixed feedback. The film is compared to "Big Hero 6" for its plot but with a more adult tone. The narrative struggles with pacing and originality, often feeling like a blend of familiar sci-fi tropes.
Themes: The movie delves into AI ethics and trust issues but often overemphasizes these points, making the message feel forced. Some critics argue the film doesn't add much to the ongoing discourse about AI in media.
Conclusion
"Atlas" offers a blend of sci-fi action and character-driven drama but fails to break new ground in the genre. Jennifer Lopez's performance is a highlight, yet the movie's overall impact is diluted by its reliance on familiar themes and predictable plot twists. For viewers seeking a straightforward sci-fi adventure, "Atlas" might suffice, but it likely won't leave a lasting impression.
