Movie review - Morgan (R) - By Stephen Signor

Run Time1:32
 

I can see why this film received negative reviews. However, I totally disagree with them. If you are looking for a lot of sci-fi, thriller action you’ll be disappointed. Except for the opening scene and a few others this film was devoid of captivating scenes. But when you have the right cast and crew along with short concise dialog there is no need. What action that is used is sufficient. 

 

I find simple elements, like the protagonist wearing a hood over her head the entire film adds a sense of mystery, and cunning, making everything else unnecessary. 

Writer Seth W. Owen added just the right touch of deceit he used in Peepers (2010) while Producer Michael Schaeffer provides the necessary element of survival instincts he incorporated in The Martian (2015). 

The plot involves corporate risk management/loss prevention expert Lee Weathers (Kate Mara) who is sent to investigate a terrifying accident at a secluded top-secret laboratory that specializes in genetic engineering. While Weathers investigates she becomes aware of Morgan’s ability to exhibit infinite promise and incalculable danger. This and the fact that rapid progression has her walking and talking within one month and self-sufficient after just six, thicken the plot.  The role of this humanoid with unmatched intelligence is convincingly played by Anya Taylor-Joy (The Witch, 2015).

When a group of scientist, led by psychologist and chief scientist Dr. Simon Ziegler (Toby Jones), becomes embroiled in a decision to terminate their experiment (Morgan), this seemingly innocent “human” with super human qualities user her abilities to outwit and neutralize the threat. With a soft spoken demeanor and athletic prowess the outcome appears obvious. However her allies are not, and this is what I believe separates Morgan from other films in the same genre.

Whether or not this debut will become a blockbuster is doubtful, but don’t be discouraged by that. Morgan is a fresh off the shelf sci-fi thriller that uses an equal combination of the unknown and the obvious. Morgan was 92 minutes that seemed like 60 and I like that. Introduce the characters, establish the plot and deliver captivating twists and call it good. Ridley Scott’s name has always been synonymous with sci-fi films. Well, the gene pool must be deep. His son Luke Scott has managed to mirror his father’s talent in what is his directorial debut.