Mad Genius

Mad Genius is an intriguing 2017 film directed by Royce Gorsuch. It has many elements that make it a captivating watch, including an enthralling storyline, impressive performances by the actors, and exceptional production quality. With a talented cast featuring Chris Mason, Scott Mechlowicz, and Spencer Locke, Mad Genius takes us on an unexpected journey through the mind, pushing the boundaries of what is believed to be real and what is the product of a neurotic mind.

Mad Genius tells the story of a brilliant but deeply troubled programmer named Mason (Chris Mason) who is fixated on his passion project - hacking human minds. Fueled by his obsession, he fervently devises a revolutionary brain-computer interface technology that will enable him to meld with the human mind. However, Mason's vision is not just about technological advancement. He dreams of creating a utopian world where there is no war, no hunger, no violence, a world where humanity is free of all its flaws.

Mason's alter ego, Finn (also played by Chris Mason), a manifestation of his subconscious, is his only companion throughout this inward journey. Finn could be a hindrance or assets, depending on the predicament Mason finds himself in. Scott Mechlowicz plays Eden, a hacker with a mysterious past who reaches out to Mason with an unusual proposal. This peculiar trio forms the core of the storyline, with each character adding a layer of intrigue and suspense.

Spencer Locke, known for her role as K-Mart from Resident Evil, portrays the role of Missy, Mason's love interest. As a stripper with an intelligent mind and a heart of gold, she becomes an essential part of Mason's plan when she unknowingly becomes the conduit for Mason's groundbreaking experiment.

Mason pursues his ambitions with unquestionable fervor, barely stopping to ponder the moral implications of his pursuits. His desire to actualize his goal becomes an obsession, pushing him down a rabbit hole of technological and philosophical intricacies. As the movie progresses, it begins to blur the lines between reality and imagination, thereby leaving the viewers to ponder - is Mason truly the pioneer of a revolutionary technology, or is he spiraling into a mental breakdown?

The theme revolving around human consciousness and mind-control sparks existential debates on the definitions of identity, personality, and reality. Mad Genius tackles these science fiction themes with an avant-garde approach, using lucid visualizations, imaginary sequences, and hallucinations to give the audience a glimpse into Mason's intricate mind map.

Director and writer Royce Gorsuch puts forth a visually striking film with a unique style of storytelling. The use of neon-soaked graphics, fast-paced CGI sequences intertwined with live action, and an underlying mood of grungy dystopia adds a distinctive cinematic aesthetic to the narrative. The pulsating electronic music amplifies the tension and drives the plot forward in a digital symphony of chaos and order.

The performances delivered by the cast are noteworthy. Chris Mason enthralls the audience with his dual role performance, switching between the driven Mason and the unruly Finn, showing a wide range of emotions and distinct character traits flawlessly. His interactions and dialogues with his alter-ego provide some of the most captivating moments in the movie. Scott Mechlowicz and Spencer Locke provide strong supporting performances that complement the narrative.

Yet, it wouldn't be correct to label Mad Genius as a mere science fiction trip, as the narrative delves into the internal world of its protagonist, answering tough questions about human nature, reality, and what it means to be 'normal.'

In summary, Mad Genius is more than a movie; it's a thought-provoking journey exploring the potential and follies of the human mind, filled with philosophical discourses, scientific debates, and existential narratives. For those who seek a blend of science fiction, psychology, and a pinch of chaos, Mad Genius offers an intriguing viewing experience. Be prepared for a wild ride, as this movie takes you deep into uncharted territories of human consciousness.