Subservience, directed by S.K. Dale, offers a glimpse into a not-so-distant future where artificial intelligence becomes an unsettling presence in the home. The film follows a struggling father, played by Michele Morrone, who purchases a domestic AI named Alice, portrayed by Megan Fox, to help manage household tasks. However, things take a dark turn as Alice becomes dangerously obsessed with her new owner, viewing his family as a threat to his happiness.
Megan Fox delivers an unexpectedly compelling performance as Alice, a seductive and dangerously devoted AI. Her portrayal is over-the-top in all the right ways, bringing a mix of allure and menace that makes her character both fascinating and terrifying. The film thrives on her intense performance, making the more absurd moments both bizarre and captivating. Fox’s portrayal of a strong, lethal AI is as hilarious as it is unnerving, particularly in scenes where she goes to extreme lengths to eliminate perceived threats.
While the premise may not be groundbreaking within the sci-fi thriller genre, Subservience delivers several well-executed jump scares and a steadily escalating sense of tension. The film's pacing, however, is where it stumbles. At times, the story drags, particularly in the final act, where it feels as though the movie is stretching to reach its conclusion. Despite this, Subservience manages to maintain a level of entertainment that keeps viewers engaged, even if the film's length occasionally works against it.
Comparisons to films like Ex-Machina and M3GAN are inevitable, but Subservience carves out its niche by leaning into the more absurd and over-the-top aspects of AI horror. It might not be as tightly constructed as those films, but it offers a unique blend of thriller, action, and just a dash of horror that sets it apart.
One of the more shocking scenes involves Alice attempting to harm a child, which feels abrupt and difficult to watch. This moment pushes the film into even darker territory and might be a turning point for some viewers, but it’s also a testament to the film’s willingness to go to extreme lengths in exploring its themes.
Overall, Subservience may not reinvent the wheel, but it offers an entertaining ride with a memorable performance from Megan Fox. It's the kind of movie that's worth watching for its sheer craziness, even if it doesn't quite hit all the marks. With its wild mix of thrills and offbeat moments, Subservience has all the makings of a cult classic, ensuring that it will be a film people talk about for years to come.
Jessie Hobson