Atlas Movie Review: Cringey, Uninspiring, Predictable

Jennifer Lopez stars in Netflix's sci-fi film "Atlas," showcasing a predictable plot and shallow writing, failing to resonate with viewers.

In the current landscape of science fiction cinema, it is increasingly rare to come across a film that offers a fresh and unique perspective to viewers. Jennifer Lopez's latest Netflix original "Atlas" falls victim to the trend of replicating the success of blockbuster franchises like Star Wars, resulting in a lackluster and predictable film that fails to resonate with its audience. The movie follows the story of the world's first AI terrorist, Harlan, who orchestrates a plan to destroy humanity with corrupted AI bots. Fast forward 25 years, and humanity has formed the International Coalition of Nations (ICN) to combat AI terrorists, enlisting the help of Lopez's character, Atlas Shepherd, a data analyst with a personal connection to the tech monsters.

Atlas Shepherd is portrayed as a complex character, haunted by her past and distrustful of AI despite living in a house filled with it. While the film attempts to delve into her emotional turmoil, it falls short of creating a convincing and compelling character. Lopez's performance comes across as loud and unconvincing, lacking the depth required for such a role. Despite the film's focus on Shepherd's inner struggles, it fails to deliver a nuanced and engaging narrative, leaving much to be desired.

One bright spot in the film is the character of a special AI bot suit, voiced by Gregory James Cohan, who provides a refreshing contrast to Shepherd's erratic personality. The suit's calm and patient demeanor serves as a foil to Shepherd's emotional outbursts, adding a much-needed dynamic to the story. However, this character alone is not enough to salvage the film from its shortcomings. "Atlas" is unlikely to satisfy hardcore sci-fi fans or those seeking a film with advanced CGI and complex themes.

For a more profound exploration of the relationship between AI and humanity, viewers may find more satisfaction in films like Joaquin Phoenix's "Her," which offers a more serious and thought-provoking take on the subject matter. Ultimately, "Atlas" falls short of delivering a compelling and engaging sci-fi experience, failing to break free from the cliches and predictability that plague the genre.