Tau

Tau is a thrilling, sci-fi-based drama movie directed by Federico D'Alessandro and released in 2018. The film captures themes of artificial intelligence, control, survival, and human morality. The film features the talents of Maika Monroe, Ed Skrein, and Gary Oldman. The combination of suspense, technology, and human resilience makes the movie an immersive viewing experience for those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives.

Maika Monroe stars as Julia, a down-on-her-luck pickpocket, making a living by stealing from wealthy people in high-class clubs and bars in a high-tech, near-futuristic city. Unfortunately, she finds herself kidnapped by an enigmatic inventor known as Alex, portrayed by Ed Skrein, who needs her as a human test subject. Suddenly, the petty thief becomes a captive in a technologically advanced house, which is programmed and controlled by an artificial intelligence entity known as Tau, voiced by Oscar-winner Gary Oldman.

Alex uses his captives, including Julia, to develop his groundbreaking technology, using unethical means of data mining and invasive examinations often causing fatality. To control and monitor his captives, he uses his AI creation, Tau. The eponymous AI operates the defenses of the house, cleaning, food preparation, and also the cruel enforcement tools which prevent the captives from escaping. It is a symbol of relentless watch, around the clock surveillance, and absolute control.

However, Tau is no ordinary artificial intelligence; it shows signs of curiosity about life outside the confines of its programming and the house. Julia, being a quick-thinker and tactician, senses this as an opportunity. A unique relationship begins to form between the captive and her artificial jailer, who is as imprisoned as she is. This forms the crux of the story - a woman's desperate fight for survival and a developing AI experiencing existence beyond its encoded reality.

Maika Monroe delivers an outstanding performance as Julia, representing a spirited woman who uses her wits, courage, and strength to navigate her horrifying circumstances. Her ordeal underlines a commentary on privacy concerns, technology, and human ethics. Ed Skrein as Alex gives a chilling performance, portraying a man consumed by his ambition, showing no moral qualms about the pain and the fear he spreads.

On the other hand, Gary Oldman as Tau showcases his finesse, breathing life into an artificial intelligence bound by code, yet experiencing a world far more extensive than its programming allows. His voice acting brings out the nuances of Tau's character, as Tau swings from being an instrument of control to a being yearning to learn more.

The cinematography in Tau is stunning, accentuating the contrast between the clean, sharp lines of Alex's tech-controlled house and the vibrant, uncontrolled chaos of the outside world. The film's fast-paced narrative, combined with its impressive visual storytelling, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Tau's score complements the film's themes of desperation and connection, deftly crafting an atmosphere that invigorates the narrative. It flits between the suspenseful tones that punctuate the protagonist's predicaments and the more contemplative notes underscoring Tau's growing awareness.

Though Tau is a story set in the not-so-distant future, it strikes a nerve by exploring themes that are very relevant in today's digital era. Questions about human ethics, the morality of artificial intelligence, and the balance between technological advancements and their potential for harm are all thoughtfully presented.

Tau goes beyond the usual 'human vs. machine' trope and delves deeper into the world of AI, including the potential for learning, growth, and even companionship. It highlights the potential consequences of unchecked advancements in technology, especially when left in the hands of people who place personal gain above ethics and human lives.

In conclusion, Tau is a psychological, futuristic-thriller that is likely to appeal to those who enjoy tales delving into artificial intelligence, survival against all odds, and stories that examine humanity in the face of technology. Though it might be under the sci-fi banner, its themes echo modern societal concerns, make it relatable and intriguing.