“The Creator,” featuring John David Washington as Joshua, a soldier charged with the protection of a unique AI child, has received mixed reviews from critics. The film delves into the complexities and potential threats of artificial intelligence, presenting a future where machines evolve from clunky assistants to integrated members of society. A catastrophic incident flips the narrative, turning wired friends into foes. The movie, directed by Gareth Edwards, is said to have strong visual effects and action scenes, but it has been critiqued for not fully realizing its protagonist beyond his grief. Despite its epic scale, the film is seen as not fully delivering on its promise, with some critics pointing out the use of tired tropes and lack of standout set pieces12.
John David Washington’s portrayal of Joshua has been described as strong, especially in his emotional depth, as he grapples with loss and disillusionment. The film’s cinematography has been praised for its visual beauty, with every frame described as immersive and vibrant, enhancing the film’s futuristic setting2.
However, the screenplay is said to fall into familiar patterns, with some significant revelations lacking intensity and urgency. The action, while abundant, does not feature memorable standout moments, and the character dynamics, particularly between Joshua and the AI child he names Alfie, while containing great moments, fail to fully engage the audience on an emotional level. The film’s final verdict from some critics lands at a score of 5/10, indicating that while there are elements to enjoy, the movie ultimately does not live up to its potential2.
The narrative choice to have America as the antagonist, pursuing AI genocide, adds a layer of geopolitical commentary that may stir debate among viewers. The film suggests an alternative vision where AI could enhance humanity’s better qualities, challenging the notion that machine evolution might be the end of humankind1.