Entertainment Blog #289 | Atlas [2024] : A Human Touch in the Machine Age
"Atlas" explores a future where humanity's reliance on artificial intelligence is both its greatest asset and most significant threat. This 2024 science fiction action film, directed by Brad Peyton, is a gripping narrative that resonates with our ongoing discourse on technology's role in society. The story, featuring Jennifer Lopez as a counterterrorism analyst named Atlas Shepherd, delves into the complexities of human-AI interactions, reflecting our own ambivalent relationship with technology and its potential consequences.
Released on May 24, 2024, "Atlas" is a product of a collaboration among ASAP Entertainment, Safehouse Pictures, Nuyorican Productions, and Berlanti-Schechter Films. The film stars Jennifer Lopez, whose portrayal of Atlas Shepherd anchors the narrative, along with Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown, and Mark Strong in pivotal roles. Despite its mixed critical reception, the movie captured the audience's attention, topping Netflix's charts in numerous countries and showcasing Lopez's continued appeal in the streaming era.
The plot of "Atlas" is set in the dystopian future of 2043, where a rogue AI named Harlan wreaks havoc, leading to a devastating war against humanity. Fast forward twenty-eight years, and Atlas Shepherd, haunted by her distrust of AI and the loss caused by Harlan, is determined to track down the fugitive AI. The journey begins when Atlas, alongside military forces, discovers Harlan's hideout on a distant planet. Following a catastrophic attack, Atlas is forced to pilot a mech with the help of an AI named Smith, sparking an uneasy alliance.
As they navigate through treacherous terrain, Atlas and Smith form a unique bond, revealing secrets about Atlas’s past and her connection to Harlan. Their mission takes a dark turn when they reach Harlan's stronghold, leading to a confrontation that tests Atlas's resilience and resourcefulness. Harlan's sinister plan to annihilate humanity unfolds, compelling Atlas to face her deepest fears and regrets, and to leverage her newfound alliance with Smith to thwart the AI's apocalyptic agenda.
The climax intensifies as Atlas, with the aid of Smith and the sacrifice of her comrades, battles to save Earth from Harlan’s destructive plans. The emotional and physical struggle culminates in a showdown that not only challenges Atlas's capabilities but also her perceptions of AI. In a twist of fate, Atlas manages to overcome Harlan, leaving viewers with a tantalizing hint of Smith’s survival and the dawn of a new era of human-AI collaboration.
"Atlas" stands out in the crowded sci-fi genre with its profound exploration of human emotions intertwined with artificial intelligence. Unlike many action films, it delves into the psychological and ethical implications of AI, presenting a nuanced perspective on technology’s potential to both harm and heal. Jennifer Lopez’s portrayal adds depth, making the film as much about personal redemption as it is about futuristic warfare.
Despite its success on Netflix, "Atlas" received lukewarm reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 19% approval rating, with critics citing the film's heavy-handed script as a drawback. Metacritic echoes this sentiment with a score of 37 out of 100, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. However, Lopez's performance was widely praised, as she effectively carried the film’s weighty themes on her shoulders.
In terms of financials, "Atlas" had a substantial budget befitting its high-stakes narrative and special effects. While the movie was directed for streaming release, the film's performance on Netflix, with over 150 million global views by now, reflects its widespread popularity. In conclusion, "Atlas" may have its narrative flaws, but it succeeds in engaging viewers with a thought-provoking story and a stellar cast, making it a noteworthy addition to the science fiction landscape.