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Netflix Shifts to Epic Sci-Fi Spectacle with “Atlas”
Netflix is making a bold move with its upcoming sci-fi action-adventure film “Atlas,” signaling a shift towards bombastic summer spectacle akin to Amazon’s “The Tomorrow War.” This trend of producing ‘original’ sci-fi movies with substantial budgets and top-tier casts seems to be gaining momentum after the lukewarm reception of 20th Century Studios’ “The Creator” in theaters last year. The decision to release such movies via streaming platforms like Netflix may be a strategic one for the foreseeable future.
An Overview of the Plot
The story of “Atlas” centers around the titular character, Atlas Shepherd, portrayed by Jennifer Lopez. Atlas is depicted as a brilliant but distrustful data analyst with a deep aversion to artificial intelligence. She embarks on a mission to capture a renegade AI named Harlan, whom she has a troubled history with. The narrative unfolds as Atlas and her team journey to another planet where Harlan is seeking refuge and planning an attack on Earth. To accomplish her mission, Atlas must overcome her reservations about working alongside a mech-bound AI named Smith.
Despite drawing comparisons to the story campaign of “Titanfall 2,” the film’s world-building and plot development appear somewhat lacking. While the visual aesthetics showcased in the trailer hint at a visually stunning experience, the overall depth of the storyline remains uncertain. The combination of Brad Peyton’s visual expertise, as evidenced in films like “San Andreas” and “Rampage,” with the sci-fi elements of “Atlas,” presents a promising spectacle for viewers.
The Cast and Crew
Leading the ensemble cast is Jennifer Lopez as Atlas Shepherd, supported by Simu Liu as the rogue AI Harlan, Sterling K. Brown as Colonel Elias Banks, Gregory James Cohan lending his voice to the AI Smith, Abraham Popoola as Casca Decius, Lana Parrilla as Val Shepherd, and Mark Strong as General Jake Boothe. The film is helmed by director Brad Peyton, with a screenplay initially penned by Leo Sardarian and later revised by Aron Eli Coleite. The cinematography is handled by John Schwartzman, known for his work on “Jurassic World,” while the original soundtrack is composed by Andrew Lockington.
With the official trailer generating buzz and anticipation building up to the film’s release date on May 24, “Atlas” appears poised to offer viewers a blend of high-octane action, futuristic landscapes, and compelling character dynamics. Netflix’s foray into large-scale science fiction storytelling, alongside the likes of “Spaceman” and “3 Body Problem,” indicates a concerted effort to cater to a diverse audience with a penchant for intergalactic adventures and technological intrigue.
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