I watched Ex Machina and it got me thinking about….
In Week 1, one of the works our group discussed was Ex Machina (2014), a film set in what would be described as a ‘small and contained world’. Unpacking the significance of this set inspired me to watch the film again, this time with what we had discussed in mind, and it got me thinking about how particular elements of this world and its architecture are used to enhance both the plot and characters. The secluded mansion in which the film is exclusively set acts almost as a character itself, being both seducing and unwelcoming in nature. We brainstormed a number of elements to consider when constructing worlds – one of these was genre. Given that this film is a thriller/mystery, the location is successful in generating a sense of unease right from the get-go. Despite being set in the one house its sheer size leaves the reader in constant anticipation, unknowing as to when and where the antagonist will suddenly appear and unleash their ‘dramatic action’. Its largeness is strangely claustrophobic.
The low-tech, dull interior of the house contrasts directly with Ava, a female robot with flashing electric circuits running through her body. The conflicting nature of Ava, being that she is a robot with unfaltering human characteristics, means that this circuitry is a constant reminder to the audience that she is in fact inhuman. However the dull backdrop contradicts this notion by making her feel more ‘alive’ than her surroundings.
The house could be seen as a reflection of its owner, Nathan, who is the creator of Ava. His mansion is isolated, minimalistic and strangely lacking in technological devices considering he works exclusively with high calibre technology. As the audience we are constantly uncertain of Nathan’s motives and discomforted by his mysterious nature.
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