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“In the last few years mainstream sci-fi movies have become more about the spectacle than the actual visual storytelling,” a new video essay begins, referencing Jurassic World, Star Trek Into Darkness, and the Transformers franchise. “There’s a heavy emphasis on stuff that’s high octane and visually stimulating, but that wow factor they go for wears off pretty quickly, especially on repeat viewings.” However, one recent modestly budgeted feature takes a different route.

Alex Garland‘s Ex Machina is one of the most accomplished directorial debuts of the year and Film-Drunk Love’s video essay proves as much, focusing on how the camera movement from cinematography Rob Hardy (explore his work here) aids the story. Specifically looking at the Ava Sessions, it runs through how the power shifts occur between Alicia Vikander and Domnhall Gleeson‘s characters through subtle touches in both reflections (or lack there of) and angles. Making for the ideal watch after viewing, one can check it out in full below and spoilers, of course, follow.

Listen to our discussion, read our interview with Garland, and more here.

What did you think of the video essay? Do you agree Garland’s camera positioning aids his story?

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