Despite being a movie centered around robots, The Electric State focuses on human emotions, relationships, and sacrifices. The Netflix adaptation of Simon Stålenhag’s novel features Millie Bobby Brown as Michelle and Chris Pratt as Keats, set in an alternate version of the 1990s.
Society is left fractured after a war between humans and robots, and Michelle, an orphan, teams up with war veteran Keats and a rebel robot to take down the oppressive corporation, Sentre. The movie ultimately explores themes of human connectivity, identity, and morality.
Michelle and Keats take on the villainous corporation Sentre, led by Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci), fighting to free the oppressed A.I. robots. The duo’s journey leads them to restore human connection by encouraging people to disconnect from the digital world. Along the way, they rescue Michelle’s brother Christopher, only to make a heart-wrenching decision that results in his death. In the end, the rebellion is successful, and the A.I. robots gain their independence, making for a bittersweet victory.
The Electric State (Photo: Netflix)Keats’ Unexpected Confession and the Film’s Unique Blend of Humor and Heart
One of the most unexpected moments in the film comes from Keats’ relationship with his robot companion, Herman. During a climactic battle, Keats believes Herman has been destroyed, leading him to confess his deep feelings for his robotic friend. To his surprise, Herman survives—albeit in a smaller body—and hears everything Keats has said. This improvised scene by Chris Pratt added a comedic and heartfelt touch to the movie, balancing humor with the film’s more serious themes.
Interestingly, the film includes an alternate history where Walt Disney is responsible for creating A.I. robots, which eventually rebel against their human creators. The filmmakers sought Disney’s approval to incorporate its influence, which was granted due to the Russo brothers’ prior involvement with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This decision added depth to the film, reinforcing the idea that robots were initially designed to be appealing and non-threatening before turning into something much more complex.
Among the robots leading the rebellion is Mr. Peanut, a promotional bot for Planters Peanuts. His character, voiced by Woody Harrelson, serves as an unlikely yet charismatic leader for the oppressed robots. The Russo brothers intentionally included Mr. Peanut to bring humor and accessibility to the movie’s deeper themes, ensuring that younger audiences could engage with the story. The film also contains numerous other robots in the background, adding hidden Easter eggs for keen-eyed viewers.
The Electric State (Photo: Netflix)Christopher’s Sacrifice and the Ethical Dilemma of Humanity in The Electric State
Michelle’s brother, Christopher, plays a crucial role in the film’s climax. Captured and used by Sentre to power their Neurocaster technology, Christopher’s mind is essentially enslaved. After years of being trapped, he manages to transfer his consciousness into a Kid Cosmo robot to reunite with Michelle.
However, upon being recaptured, he reveals that the only way to dismantle Sentre is by severing his connection, which would result in his own death. Michelle ultimately makes the painful decision to pull the plug, highlighting the film’s recurring theme of sacrifice.
One of the film’s most poignant moments comes at the end when Mr. Peanut shows mercy to Ethan Skate, sparing his life despite his cruelty. This decision underscores the film’s exploration of morality and humanity, suggesting that robots may possess more ethical integrity than some humans. The contrast between the robots’ compassion and Ethan’s ruthlessness adds a deeper philosophical layer to the story, questioning what truly defines humanity.
Although no direct sequel has been confirmed, the Russo brothers have hinted at expanding The Electric State universe through other media. A video game adaptation is already in development, and discussions for a potential TV series are underway. While a continuation of Michelle and Keats’ story remains uncertain, the world of The Electric State has the potential for further exploration in new and exciting ways.
