M3GAN (2022)

M3GAN is about a technologist who creates a child-like doll with artificial intelligence to help her niece cope with the loss of her sister. The doll is designed to protect it’s owner, but as it becomes self-aware, it’s clear that no one is safe! Let’s consider the pros and cons of M3GAN…

Pros: Firstly, makeup and CGI deserve an award for turning Amie Donald into the plastic contraption that is M3GAN. I have no idea how they managed to pull off uncanny valley on an actual person, but the results are unsettling to say the least. I’m not usually a fan of child actors, but Violet McGraw also does a commendable job as Gemma’s niece. Lastly, I like that this spiritual successor to the Chucky franchise stands out because director Gerard Johnstone does a fantastic job of modernizing the story!

Cons: Although it’s certainly within the horror umbrella, M3GAN is more of a thriller than anything else. It works great, but I understand why people might go in expecting a slasher flick. There’s plenty of violence and gore to go around, but everything is so brightly lit that it never really gets “scary”. I’m a fan of this new style of horror which is much more cerebral than shocking, but to each their own. Lastly, is the originality aspect which is worth a mention. It’s not an issue for me, but apparently others aren’t as impress by violent toys and sentient AI as I am.

I give M3GAN a B+. It’s an exciting thriller and a refreshing addition to the horror genre. If you’re looking for something short and bittersweet, then this movie is a great choice. Happy watching!

“We don’t throw people away, we fix them!”