Uncanny Review

Uncanny:  2015

Writer:  Shahin Chandrasoma

Director:  Matthew Leutwyler

Starring:  Mark Webber, Lucy Griffiths, David Clayton Rogers

                                                                                                       David Clayton Rogers (Adam)

It was bound to happen that Uncanny would be compared to Ex Machina- even though Uncanny was completed in 2012.  The movies do share similar foundations.  Both center on paranoid, reclusive robotics engineers that are at the pinnacle of their field in artificial intelligence.  And each are to the point they desire to share their work with the world.

Uncanny stars Mark Webber (Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Green Room) as scientist and robotics creator David Kressen.  Kressen is a MIT prodigy that graduated at the top of his class at 19. From there he embarked on a job that was so secretive he has not had contact with the outside world and has worked in a lab for the last nine years.  A lab with the sole purpose of creating the perfect artificial intelligence.  Finally ready to share his work and creation with the world, Kressen invites writer and former robotics protege Joy Andrews to come for a week long visit.  Cleverly played by Lucy Griffiths (Preacher, True Blood), Joy has entered into a situation she does fully comprehend.  Caught between skepticism and fascination Joy fully engages as she dances between reporter and robotics enthusiast. 

Impressed with her writing and robotics background, David invites her to be the ultimate critic her to his A.I. Adam (David Clayton Rogers).  Cleverly played by Lucy Griffiths (Preacher, True Blood), Joy has entered into a situation she does not fully comprehend.  Caught between skepticism and fascination she goes into

Impressed with her writing and robotics background, David invites her to be the ultimate skeptic and judge and introduces her to his A.I. Adam (David Clayton Rogers).  Cleverly played by Lucy Griffiths (Preacher, True Blood), Joy has entered into a situation she does not fully comprehend. Caught between skepticism and fascination she goes into investigation mode. Joy delicately engages Adam in conversation and interacts with him

David Clayton Rogers (Adam), Lucy Griffiths (Joy Andrews)

and quickly realizes this might be the real thing- the first A.I. that can actually pass all the tests and blend in as real.  

But everything is not as it seems as Adam begins to display emotion and actions seeming impossible, even from the best programmer in the field.  The interactions between scientist and creation often times appear tense and uncomfortable.  Kressen is cold and aloof toward Adam, displaying an almost has a disdain toward him.  Joy on the other hand is beyond fascinated. Adam is sincerely curious about Joy as he feebly attempts to engage her in conversation; seemingly relieved to have another person to interact with..  

Despite the intrigue, there is something clearly off about this duo, although it is difficult to gage what that is.  An awkward occurrence between Joy and Adam intensifies the already strained circumstances.

Mark Weber (David Kressen)

Skillful shooting and wonderfully subtle acting from Weber and Rodgers makes Uncanny worth the watch.  Most films have trouble succeeding without a larger cast or frequent locations changes, but that is one of the elements that makes Uncanny so rich.  The hint of claustrophobia adds to the tense feeling of isolation.  Be warned, this is not a high action film but a clinic in more is less, and when good direction trumps all.