From 'Upgrade' to 'I, Robot': 5 movies to watch if you liked Jennifer Lopez's 'Atlas' on Netflix
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Despite its star-studded cast, Atlas didn't impress critics. Netflix's newest original, led by Jennifer Lopez as Atlas Shepherd, a scientist who could save humanity from Harlan (played by Simu Liu), an AI soldier turned rogue.
Lopez shines alongside co-stars Sterling K. Brown, Mark Strong, and Gregory James Cohan, who all strive to lift the film. Directed by Brad Peyton, Atlas joins a slew of recent big-budget movies exploring AI's complex ties to humanity.
Fans of Atlas might enjoy other movies and shows delving into similar themes and ethical dilemmas, and we're here to discuss 5 movies to watch if you like Jennifer Lopez's 'Atlas' on Netflix.
Upgrade (2018)
For those craving a more intense AI experience, 'Upgrade' offers a brutal take on the technology-meets-brainpower divide. Logan Marshall-Green stars as Grey Trace, left paralyzed after a mugging, who reluctantly embraces an AI implant called STEM to regain mobility and seek vengeance.
Comparing 'Atlas' to the underrated 'Upgrade', the latter takes AI integration to the extreme with its bloody autopilot and brain implant.
While 'Atlas' explores mild AI physical connections, 'Upgrade' dives deeper into the ramifications, appealing to similar audiences despite existing in different sci-fi subgenres.
'Upgrade' is available to stream on Netflix.
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
Setting aside personal views on the MCU, 'Avengers: Age of Ultron' and 'Atlas' share a notable connection. In Phase II of the MCU, the Avengers confront Ultron, an AI program turned villain set on eradicating humanity. James Spader delivers a chilling portrayal, mirroring Atlas' antagonist, Harlan.
Spader's Ultron is compelling as he grapples with humanity's destructive potential, echoing Harlan's motivations in 'Atlas'.
While 'Age of Ultron' delves into Tony Stark's AI evolution, 'Atlas' offers a similar exploration of ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial intelligence. Both films merge scientific brilliance with blockbuster action, resonating with audiences drawn to AI-driven narratives.
'Avengers: Age of Ultron' is streaming on Hotstar.
Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
Fans seeking more action from 'Atlas' might find satisfaction in 'Edge of Tomorrow'. Tom Cruise stars as Major William Cage, caught in a time loop during a war with aliens. With each repetition, his combat skills improve as he teams up with Rita (Emily Blunt) to fight the invaders.
'Edge of Tomorrow' offers beefed-up action with robotic suits and alien foes, appealing to 'Atlas' viewers craving more excitement.
Both films showcase teamwork amidst adversity, though 'Edge of Tomorrow' lacks the AI focus. Nonetheless, it delivers thrilling out-of-this-world action for audiences seeking an adrenaline rush.
'Edge of Tomorrow' is available to stream on Netflix.
I, Robot (2004)
In the humans versus robots genre, 2004's 'I, Robot' stands out with its star-studded cast led by Will Smith. Set in a robot-integrated society of 2035, Detective Del Spooner (Smith) investigates what he believes is a robot-committed murder of the U.S. Robotics founder, initially deemed a suicide.
The sci-fi thriller also stars Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Greenwood, Alan Tudyk, and James Cromwell.
While not a space-themed action flick, 'I, Robot' remains a blockbuster, offering a foundational exploration of the human-AI relationship. Spooner and Sonny (Tudyk) form a dynamic reminiscent of buddy-cop archetypes, inspiring similar movies like 'Atlas'.
'I, Robot' is streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
Chappie (2015)
Both 'Atlas' and 'Chappie' faced initial criticism from reviewers, sharing common themes of robotics in a futuristic setting. In 'Chappie', set in a technology-driven future, humans rebel against a robotic police force.
When a police droid named Chappie gains autonomy through reprogramming, he becomes a perceived threat.
Starring Hugh Jackman, 'Chappie' delves into the idea of granting autonomy to robots in a society resistant to it, echoing themes present in 'Atlas'. The film explores the blurred boundary between human and AI autonomy.
While 'Chappie' could have benefited from more narrative development, it serves as a precursor story with thematic connections to 'Atlas', appealing to audiences intrigued by discussions of autonomy and oppression in various cinematic universes.
'Chappie' is available to stream on Netflix.