A true sci-fi thriller, The Machine presents a future where artificial intelligence is closing in on human-level capabilities and governments race to develop human-like robotic soldiers. After a cold war with China has caused a severe economic depression in the West, research into artificial intelligence is viewed as THE research to win what is considered an unavoidable war. The desired outcome is a superior soldier capable of managing a "three-block war: the battle, the negotiations, and the peace."

While too many recent science fiction films have focused on famous actors and fast scenes, adding layers of action to cross genres, The Machine is a true sci-fi film (there is action, but most of the movie is slow and moody as developments take time). Both dark and gritty, it feels like a better view of the future than the ultra-political Elysium or any film dealing with human-alien strife. Swinging for the fence, Caradog James, writer and director of The Machine, bangs one out of the park.

A film that takes itself seriously and delivers it well, The Machine looks at a range of issues involving superintelligence and artificial life, such as empathy, consciousness, love, attachment, and morality. It manages to hit all the high notes while leaving the easy tropes behind.

If you're looking for some science fiction to get you to think and learn, The Machine is a must-see. With a plot where every human and machine are flawed and dirty, with no real good guys in sight, it's the type of film that keeps you on the edge of your chair while keeping your mind engaged.