Movie Review Megan (2023)

 

M3GAN | 2023 | 1h 42m
Genre: AI/Cyber Thriller/Dark Comedy/Slasher Horror/Horror/Sci-Fi/Thriller | Country: US
Director: Gerard Johnstone | Writers: Akela Cooper, James Wan
Cast: Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Ronny Chieng
IMDB: 6.3
My Rate: 7/10

Gemma creates an AI robot designed to be a companion for children.  Cady, her niece who recently lost her parents, becomes the first to use it.  However, the robot, M3GAN, in its efforts to protect Cady, exhibits unexpected and shocking behavior.

Warnings:

Contains violence, murder, and strong language.

 

Synopsis:

Cady (Violet McGraw) experiences a tragic accident that kills her parents, leaving her to live with her aunt, Gemma (Allison Williams). Cady suffers deep trauma.

Gemma, suddenly responsible for Cady, feels unprepared.  Working at a robotics toy company, she's juggling her personal project and company demands.  Cady's presence sparks an idea.

Instead of creating the toys the company wants, Gemma focuses on her project: a lifelike doll.  While not cheap to produce, it holds significant potential. This decision stems from Cady's comment that with such a toy, she wouldn't need any others.

Gemma successfully develops and builds M3GAN, a robotic toy resembling a girl with rapid learning capabilities. M3GAN is paired with Cady, and a strong bond forms between them.

During M3GAN's first demonstration to the company CEO, Cady is present to help with testing. Initially, Cady is afraid of M3GAN, but she's captivated by M3GAN's social skills, leading to a close relationship.

Before M3GAN's public launch, Gemma needs to strengthen the bond between Cady and M3GAN, so they live together at Gemma's house. Initially, everything seems fine. Cady is no longer sad, and Gemma doesn't have to worry about Cady's care.  However, strange incidents occur, and M3GAN exhibits aggressive behavior. A murder takes place at Cady's nature school. Gemma becomes suspicious.

Is M3GAN responsible for the murders?

 
Review:

M3GAN's story isn't entirely unique. Many films feature "evil dolls," such as Chucky and Annabelle, and the idea of robots killing people is seen in Terminator.  This film combines these elements, but presents them well.

The story is systematic. The background of the story and characters is well-developed, allowing viewers to understand the underlying issues. The conflict unfolds gradually, culminating at the right moment. The resolution is also good, with tense action sequences.

Creating M3GAN for the film wasn't easy.  Animators worked to make M3GAN look realistic. Amie Donald's performance as M3GAN's body is captivating, particularly her surprising dance moves.

The music and sound effects are appropriate. The camera movement and detailed visuals are impressive. The presentation is excellent.

However, some aspects are illogical. For instance, David, Gemma's CEO, rashly approves presenting M3GAN to investors after a single demonstration.  For a large company, quality assurance and control should be prioritized.  Presenting it without thorough testing is unreasonable.

Additionally, Gemma, working for the company, develops a personal project outside her assigned tasks and uses company funds. This is unusual.  In a real company, significant funding wouldn't be easily accessible without a budget proposal and management approval.

Another issue is Gemma ignoring her colleague's concerns about M3GAN fully replacing parental roles. Gemma argues she doesn't care because Cady isn't her child.  This mindset is illogical for a seasoned professional in the toy industry.  As the creator, Gemma should consider market implications.

Overall, this film is engaging but not suitable for children despite the doll protagonist due to its violence.  Viewer discretion is advised.

 
Memorable Scene:

During M3GAN's demonstration, Cady becomes sad and cries. M3GAN comforts her by listening.  M3GAN stores this in her memory.

This scene shows a touching interaction.  Cady, having lost her parents, hides her sadness. M3GAN's presence highlights the need for validation and non-judgmental listening.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

 "I won't let anything harm you ever again."

 

Ending:

Cliffhanger

 

Recommendation:

Worth watching

 

(Aluna)