It doesn’t get talked about much recently, but one of the strange side effects to theaters, festivals and the majority of the world being closed for months, was the death of hype. That may sound silly, since the concept of hype, in the entertainment industry, doesn’t always lead to the best results. Yet smaller films that thrive in that word of mouth hype are left at a disadvantage now. One such title this writer was excited about for SXSW, was a little sci-fi film called Archive. Now that the trailer is finally here, it looks like that excitement wasn’t unfounded. See for yourself.
Here’s a quick little official synopsis, to go along with that footage:
“2038: George Almore is working on a true human-equivalent AI. His latest prototype is almost ready. This sensitive phase is also the riskiest. Especially as he has a goal that must be hidden at all costs: being reunited with his dead wife.”
There’s something about relatively pared back, focused and lo-fi sci-fi films. By narrowing the scope and limiting actors, it allows director’s and production design to create a lived in world. Yes, it’s just a short trailer, but wow does Archive feel inviting. You can easily feel a tactile sense to things like in Moon, Ex Machina or Oblivion. That’s not bad company at all. Ok, maybe Oblivion outside of the visuals. However you slice it, any film that has an advanced A.I. occupying a humanoid shell, that also features Toby Jones, should shoot to everyone’s “must watch” list.
What do all you readers think? Is this the kind of sci-fi film you prefer? Are you someone who likes the more bombastic AAA films that fill out theaters usually in the summer? Be sure to let us know down in the comments. You can also be sure to see exactly how Archive unfolds, very soon, as it becomes sentient, on VOD platforms everywhere, starting on July 10th. Meanwhile, as you wait, stare at this official poster for the movie and see if Theo James ends up staring into your soul.
