Gareth Edwards’ latest sci-fi opus, The Creator, thrusts the collision of artificial intelligence and human existence into the spotlight. Set against a backdrop of a future marked by conflict, the film challenges viewers to reassess their perceptions of AI, offering a fresh perspective on this ever-relevant topic. While not shying away from the potential dangers of advanced AI, it also delves into the complexities of love and empathy in a world where machines and humans coexist. The Creator is released in the UK on 28 September 2023.

The European premiere at the Science Museum London

Director Gareth Edwards attends the UK Premiere of 20th Century Studios’ ‘The Creator’ at The Science Museum, London, on the 26th of September 2023. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)

The Science Museum in London shimmered with stardust last night as it played host to the highly anticipated UK red carpet premiere of The Creator, the sci-fi action thriller helmed by the multi-talented director, producer, and co-writer Gareth Edwards who directed Rogue One – a beautiful Star Wars prequel. The party was a star-studded affair, with A-list celebrities gracing the occasion, including the likes of the ever-charming Michael McIntyre, the hilarious Leigh Francis and the dashing Hugo Taylor. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with excitement and anticipation.

Highlights of the fantastic party (prre- and pos- screening) for The Creator premiere at the Science Museum London

In addition to the glittering array of celebrities, the premiere also saw an impressive lineup of influential personalities and digital trailblazers. Notable influencers such as Gee Nelly, boasting an impressive 245K followers, the dynamic Hannah Cunningham with 159K followers, and the immensely popular Cam Holmes with a staggering 1.5 million followers, added an extra layer of contemporary flair to the event. The star-studded guest list was further elevated with the attendance of former boxing champion David Haye and the accomplished presenter Fiona Bruce, making it a night to remember for all in attendance. The premiere of The Creator at the Science Museum was not only a celebration of cinematic excellence but also a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in the heart of London’s cultural scene.

The story

In The Creator, we meet Joshua Taylor (John David Washington), a special forces operative tasked with confronting the looming threat of advanced AI. The narrative takes a compelling turn when Joshua discovers that his target, Alpha-O, is embodied in the form of a six-year-old girl named Alphie (Madeleine Yuna Voyles). This revelation sets off a series of events that challenge Joshua’s convictions and lead him to question the true nature of AI.

The verdict

Edwards and co-writer Chris Weitz navigate the intricate terrain of a world where conventional robots coexist with AI “simulants” like Alphie. This nuanced approach allows the audience to witness the blending of human-like appearances with cutting-edge technology, blurring the lines between man and machine.

Visually, The Creator is a feast for the eyes. Edwards’ meticulous attention to detail brings to life a future where sprawling cyberpunk cityscapes and serene rolling fields maintained by robots coexist. The juxtaposition of natural beauty with towering space stations creates a breathtaking tapestry of imagery that captivates from start to finish.

The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, with John David Washington’s portrayal of Joshua providing a grounded emotional core to the narrative. Gemma Chan shines as Maya, Joshua’s wife, whose mysterious disappearance fuels the narrative’s emotional undercurrent. However, it is Madeleine Yuna Voyles, in her debut role as Alphie, who steals the show. Her portrayal of a burgeoning AI entity transitioning into a form of self-awareness is captivating.

The film’s depiction of a war-torn world is nothing short of scary but beautifully filmed. The contrast violence in the gorgeous setting makes the story more terrifying. From the lush rural landscapes to the neon-lit industrial cities, each setting is meticulously crafted to immerse the audience in this dystopian future. The various robots tailored to their specific functions add an extra layer of authenticity to the world. Some of these bots reminded me of Rogue One and Star Wars.

The Creator doesn’t just engage with the AI conversation; it uses it as a lens to explore the depths of human emotion. While the film’s emotional core may be its weaker aspect, its technical brilliance more than compensates. The film’s innovative production techniques, combined with its striking visual style, showcase Edwards’ remarkable resourcefulness.

In a landscape often dominated by franchise films, The Creator stands as a testament to original film-making. Gareth Edwards’ bold vision and Chris Weitz’s skilful storytelling culminate in a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between humanity and artificial intelligence. The result is a visually stunning sci-fi epic. As we navigate the complexities of AI in our own world, The Creator serves as a timely and resonant trigger of thoughts of a terrifying future shaped by AI. This film will certainly leave a lasting mark on the genre and ignite conversations about the potential dangers of advanced artificial intelligence.