Atlas Review: A Sci-Fi Action Romp with Killer Robots and Space Travel
Netflix’s latest sci-fi original, Atlas, stars Jennifer Lopez as Atlas Shepherd, a gifted data analyst living in a future where robots have turned on humanity. With a predictable plot and impressive FX, Atlas is a fun, if not entirely clever, sci-fi action romp.
Robot mayhem in Atlas
Lopez shines as the film’s central figure, bringing emotion to the story amidst the chaotic action sequences. Director Brad Peyton draws inspiration from James Cameron’s playbook, with clear nods to Aliens and Terminator. The film’s world-building is effective, if minimal, and the plot is hampered by questionable logic leaps.
Jennifer Lopez stars as Atlas Shepherd
Atlas joins forces with a team of rangers, led by Sterling K. Brown’s Colonel Elias Banks, to capture the world’s first AI terrorist, Harlan (Shang-Chi star Simu Liu). When things go awry, Atlas finds herself stranded with a mech suit controlled by a programme called Smith (voiced by Gregory James Cohan). The film’s themes of AI and humanity are timely, but the story could benefit from more flesh on its bones.
AI robot mayhem in Atlas
Atlas streams on Netflix from May 24. For more, check out our guide to the best Netflix movies.
Conclusion
While Atlas is fun and visually impressive, it’s hampered by a predictable plot and thin characters. Lopez shines, but the story could benefit from more depth. Still, fans of sci-fi action will find plenty to enjoy in this Netflix original.
