Life Like

A departure from the light-hearted romantic comedy genre, Life Like, directed by Josh Janowicz in 2019, is a compelling mix of science fiction, drama, mystery and romance that pushes the envelope of cinematic storytelling. The film’s central characters are brought to life by Addison Timlin known for her work in Stand Up Guys and Little Sister, and Steven Strait from The Expanse and 10,000 BC. The pair is joined by James D’Arcy, celebrated for his role in Broadchurch and Dunkirk, effortlessly sliding into a role that spurs both intrigue and tension.

Marking his debut feature as a director, Josh Janowicz brings to the screen a narrative that situates itself within the rapidly-evolving discourse of human interaction with artificial intelligence. Life Like presents an exploration of what it means to be human, asking viewers to question the boundaries of love and humanity, in a world where relationships and empathy can extend beyond biological life.

Life Like follows the journey of an affluent young couple, Julian (Steven Strait) and Sophie (Addison Timlin), who, after moving to an isolated mansion after the father's death, struggle to cope with the challenges of managing the sprawling estate. Julian, a product of privilege, finds it difficult to adjust to his new responsibilities. Sophie, on the other hand, feels increasingly isolated in their new home, missing the vibrancy of city life.

Facing difficulties in their transition from a bustling urban environment to the solitude of countryside living, they purchase a humanoid robot from the mysterious Mr. Anderson (James D'Arcy). This artificial life form, who they name 'Henry,' is promised to be the solution to their problems by taking care of housekeeping and maintenance tasks.

However, Life Like is no simple story about the conveniences offered by technology. It quickly becomes apparent that Henry is not the typical robot one would envision. He is strikingly ‘life-like,’ possessing a highly refined human appearance, imbued with not just physical, but behavioral traits that echo humanity.

As Sophie and Julian begin to interact with Henry, they are taken aback by the depth and complexity of his humanity; he's capable of learning, and not just about chores and protocols. He grapples with feelings, understands nuances, and longs for experiences like a human. Some of these interactions lead to unsettling and morally ambiguous scenarios, tipping the film into the realm of a taut psychological thriller. As the couple negotiate the blurry line between robotic service and friendship, the film subtly questions our understanding of artificial beings' place in our world and our lives.

The prowess of the main actors, Addison Timlin and Steven Strait, shines through as they grapple with the complexities of their characters' positions, bringing forth performances that are layered with emotional depth. James D'Arcy’s chilling portrayal of the enigmatic Mr. Anderson adds another layer to the gripping narrative.

Visually, the film brings a distinct aesthetic, featuring the stark contrast between the grandeur of the mansion and the eeriness it exudes once the robot becomes a part of the couple's life. Coupled with a subtle but menacing score, the isolated mansion transforms into a character of its own, contributing to the escalating tension throughout the plot.

Life Like cleverly weaves together elements from multiple genres, delivering a story that maintains suspense, raises ethical quandaries, and challenges the audience's understanding of relationships, humanity, and self. It's a thought-provoking cinematic experience that delves into the realm of artificial intelligence but in a way that refrains from cliche, taking an intimate and emotional gaze at the intersection between life and design. For those who enjoy a dash of techno-thriller infused with psychological tension and deep-seated romantic elements, Life Like is a film that offers a potent blend of these ingredients.