The thing about formulaic movies like M3GAN is that sometimes they get it right. In this case, we have a movie about a killer doll that uses the subgenre to explore new ideas. Akela Cooper‘s script from a story by James Wan directed by Gerard Johnstone is a clever exploration of the use of technology in the place of the awkward, often difficult moments of just being human. Laced with a nasty wit and passive cynicism, M3GAN is a surprisingly fun thriller.
After a set of cold opens featuring a commercial for a virtual pet and a tragic accident, we center on toy inventor and techno whiz Gemma (Allison Williams). It seems that her niece Cady (Violet McGraw) has survived a tragic accident that killed Gemma’s sister and brother-in-law. Newly orphaned Cady arrives just as Gemma is set to present a brand new technical marvel to her boss (Ronny Chieng). So how does a career gal like Gemma take the new role of parenting head-on? Technology, of course.
Enter the titular character M3GAN. Both a mechanical and technical marvel, M3GAN is the ultimate toy. One paired up with a human, M3GAN becomes a sponge for information to enhance the experience. In this case, Cady finds solace in her new robotic companion. This allows Gemma to put off the unpleasantness of parenting through a tragedy in favor of excelling in her career and placating her grieving niece. Everything is great, right? Nope.
Gemma’s creation works a little too well in protecting and assisting Cady. At first, it’s just a collection of reminders; use a coaster, wash your hands, flush the toilet. Then as M3GAN’s intelligence begins to mushroom and she focuses on the directive to keep Cady happy and safe, things get weird.
Voiced by Jenna Davis and occasionally portrayed by Amie Donald, M3GAN is an uncanny valley mix of Furby and the Olsen Twins. Increasingly sinister and always learning, this mechanical monster was developed for the convenience of humans and only ends up serving to point out the flaws of its inventors.
As mentioned, the script by Cooper is sharp. The enemy is technology as a substitute for true connection. The material is matched by cynical humor from director Johnstone. The opening of the film is a brilliant pastiche of moments that sets the tone for the film.
M3GAN is a fun little thriller that seems to have benefited from a sizable budget and a collection of talented individuals that were put on the right project at the right time. Hardly original in concept, M3GAN explores the tropes of evil technology with a present lens.
Ultimately M3GAN, is what happens when the market requirements for a film are met and the talent rises to the occasion both in front of and behind the camera. Color us pleasantly surprised.
