Vice (2015) Movie Review: A Sci-Fi Thriller That Explores the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
“Vice,” released in 2015 and directed by Brian A. Miller, offers a gripping dive into the ethical and moral questions surrounding artificial intelligence. With a futuristic setting and a compelling storyline, the film blends elements of science fiction and thriller genres, creating a thought-provoking narrative. Despite its ambitious premise, “Vice” has received mixed reviews, with some praising its concepts and others critiquing its execution.
Plot Overview
The film is set in a near-future world where a high-end resort called Vice offers clients the ultimate escapism: a place where they can live out their darkest fantasies with lifelike androids that are programmed to serve without question. Julian Michaels (Bruce Willis) is the mastermind behind this morally ambiguous enterprise. The story centers on Kelly (Ambyr Childers), an android who begins to develop self-awareness and memories of her past lives at Vice. As she escapes the confines of the resort, she becomes a target for the ruthless Michaels and the resort’s security team.
Kelly’s journey for freedom draws the attention of Roy (Thomas Jane), a cop determined to shut down Vice due to the ethical violations it embodies. The film delves into the cat-and-mouse chase between Kelly, seeking autonomy, and the forces trying to reclaim her.
Character Dynamics and Performances
Bruce Willis delivers a solid performance as Julian Michaels, embodying the cold and calculating demeanor of a businessman who sees his creations purely as products. His portrayal adds a layer of menace to the character, making him a formidable antagonist.
Ambyr Childers shines as Kelly, portraying the transition from an obedient android to a sentient being with nuance and emotional depth. Her performance captures the confusion, fear, and determination of a character discovering her own humanity. Thomas Jane, as Roy, provides a gritty counterbalance to the sleek world of Vice, embodying the role of a world-weary cop with a personal vendetta against the resort.
Visual Style and Production Design
“Vice” excels in its visual presentation, creating a sleek and immersive futuristic world. The resort is depicted as a glamorous and high-tech playground for the wealthy, contrasting sharply with the gritty, dystopian reality outside its walls. The production design effectively highlights the disparity between the privileged clients of Vice and the exploited androids.
The special effects and cinematography contribute to the film’s polished aesthetic, with impressive action sequences and detailed depictions of the androids’ lifelike appearance. However, some critics have pointed out that the film’s style occasionally overshadows its substance, leaving certain plot elements underdeveloped.
Themes and Ethical Questions
At its core, “Vice” explores profound ethical questions about artificial intelligence, free will, and the nature of humanity. The film prompts viewers to consider the morality of creating sentient beings for the sole purpose of exploitation and entertainment. Kelly’s journey toward self-awareness serves as a powerful narrative device, highlighting issues of autonomy, identity, and the consequences of playing god.
The film also addresses the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancements and the ethical responsibilities of those who wield such power. While these themes are compelling, some critics feel that “Vice” does not delve deeply enough into these complex issues, opting instead for action-driven sequences that, while entertaining, can detract from the philosophical underpinnings.
Reception and Legacy
“Vice” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. While its thought-provoking premise and visual style garnered praise, its execution and pacing were points of contention. Some viewers appreciated the film’s action-packed narrative and thematic exploration, while others felt it fell short of its potential, with a script that did not fully capitalize on its intriguing concepts.
Despite the mixed reception, “Vice” remains a notable entry in the sci-fi thriller genre, particularly for those interested in stories that tackle the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and the consequences of human hubris.
Streaming and Purchase Options in America
For those interested in watching “Vice,” the film is available on various streaming platforms. As of 2024, you can stream it on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It is also available for rental or purchase on platforms like Google Play Movies, YouTube, and iTunes, providing multiple options for viewers to choose the most convenient way to watch the film.
Conclusion
“Vice” (2015) stands as a visually compelling and thematically rich sci-fi thriller that explores the ethical boundaries of artificial intelligence. While its execution may not fully satisfy all viewers, its ambitious premise and engaging performances make it a film worth watching. As technology continues to evolve, “Vice” serves as a timely reminder of the ethical dilemmas that accompany scientific advancements and the importance of considering the human implications of our technological pursuits.
For fans of the genre and those intrigued by the moral questions posed by AI, “Vice” offers a thought-provoking and visually striking cinematic experience. Whether you’re drawn to its action sequences or its philosophical inquiries, the film invites you to ponder the future of humanity and the role of technology in shaping our destinies.
