Captive State (2019) Movie Review: A Dystopian Sci-Fi Thriller with Political Undertones
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Introduction
“Captive State,” directed by Rupert Wyatt and released in 2019, is a dystopian science fiction thriller that explores themes of resistance, control, and societal division. Starring John Goodman, Ashton Sanders, and Vera Farmiga, the film presents a gritty and politically charged narrative set in a future where Earth is under alien occupation.
Plot Summary
The film is set in Chicago, nearly a decade after an alien invasion has led to Earth’s subjugation. The extraterrestrial overlords, referred to as “The Legislators,” have established a strict authoritarian regime, promising peace and prosperity in exchange for obedience and cooperation. However, beneath the surface, a rebellion is brewing among the discontented population.
Gabriel Drummond (Ashton Sanders) is a young man living in the occupied city, struggling with the loss of his family and the oppressive reality around him. His older brother, Rafe (Jonathan Majors), was a prominent resistance leader who supposedly died in a failed mission. Inspired by his brother’s legacy, Gabriel becomes involved with a new resistance movement determined to strike back against the alien rulers.
Detective William Mulligan (John Goodman) is a conflicted law enforcement officer tasked with maintaining order and rooting out insurgents. As he investigates the resistance, he becomes entangled in a complex web of loyalty, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The film builds towards a climactic confrontation that challenges the characters’ beliefs and their willingness to fight for freedom.
Performance and Direction
John Goodman delivers a nuanced performance as Detective Mulligan, portraying a man torn between his duty and his conscience. Ashton Sanders brings depth and intensity to his role as Gabriel, capturing the character’s vulnerability and determination. Vera Farmiga, although in a smaller role, adds a layer of intrigue and emotional complexity to the narrative.
Director Rupert Wyatt effectively creates a tense and oppressive atmosphere, using Chicago’s urban landscape to reflect the film’s dystopian setting. The screenplay, co-written by Wyatt and Erica Beeney, combines elements of political allegory with sci-fi thrills, though some critics feel the narrative is overly complex and occasionally disjointed. The film’s visual effects and production design are notable, enhancing the immersive quality of the world it depicts.
Critical Reception
“Captive State” received mixed reviews from critics. Praise was directed towards its ambitious concept, performances, and visual style, while criticism focused on its convoluted plot and pacing issues.
Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a score of 44% based on 121 reviews, with an average rating of 5.3/10. The consensus reads: “Captive State delivers a few sci-fi thrills, but largely wastes its talented cast on a narrative that fails to deliver fresh ideas.”
Metacritic scores the film at 54 out of 100, indicating “mixed or average reviews.”
Despite the mixed reception, the film has been appreciated by some for its thought-provoking themes and unique approach to the alien invasion genre.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the United States, “Captive State” is available on several streaming platforms. You can stream it on:
- Amazon Prime Video
Additionally, the film is available for rental or purchase on:
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
Final Thoughts
“Captive State” offers a gritty and politically charged take on the sci-fi thriller genre. Its exploration of resistance and authoritarianism, combined with strong performances by John Goodman and Ashton Sanders, make it an engaging watch despite its narrative flaws.
For those who enjoy dystopian tales with a mix of action and political intrigue, “Captive State” provides a fresh perspective on the alien invasion narrative. Its atmospheric tension and thought-provoking themes ensure that it stands out as a noteworthy entry in the genre.
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