Automatons

Set amidst an indefinite post-apocalyptic future, "Automatons" is an intensely chilling representation of a world ravaged by constant warfare. This independent science fiction movie, written and directed by James Felix McKenney, was premiered in 2006 and stars Christine Spencer, Angus Scrimm, and Brenda Cooney. "Automatons" is a harrowing depiction of the death throes of a civilization quick to war but slow to learn.

To say that Automatons is just a science fiction film does not do justice to its complex and intricate narrative. It dabbles in a pronounced form of psychological horror and wraps everything in an atmospheric cloak of dread and despair - which barely lets up for its brisk 83 minute runtime. Shot in black and white, and with Super 8mm cameras, the movie's aesthetic is reminiscent of the 1950s atomic age sci-fi films and 20th-century dystopian cautionary tale movies, retaining all the eerie, timeless gloom such a setting demands.

At the core of the story is 'The Girl', played brilliantly by Christine Spencer, who lives in a bunker isolated from the rest of the world. Entirely alone, The Girl's only responsibility is to maintain a group of robot soldiers otherwise known as 'automatons'. These machines are humanity's last defense, pitted against other, similar robots dispatched by an enemy that remains as unknown to The Girl as it is to us.

Spencer's solitary character is supported by transmissions from her lost civilization's past in the form of recorded lectures from her surrogate father and mentor, a scientist portrayed movingly by the late Angus Scrimm. These serve as threads of continuity linking the bleak present with a forgotten time when humanity still existed more widely. To further deepen her character, we are also provided with periodic flashbacks of The Girl during her early years of apprenticeship to elucidate her attachment to the robots and the role she plays in this dying world.

Meanwhile, Brenda Cooney fleshes out the role of the enemy leader, bringing a chilling air to her broadcasts and threats. Her presence, despite being only virtual, is stark and cold, offering a sharp contrast to The Girl's quiet desperation and vulnerability.

Throughout the narrative, "Automatons" offers a thought-provoking commentary on warfare, society, and the dangerously thin line between humanity and technology. It highlights the absurdity of war, where two civilizations pulverize each other over ideological differences to the point of utter annihilation. Simultaneously, it probes into the notion of what it means to be human and poses dark questions about our increasing reliance and submission to technology.

"Automatons" is not your typical blockbuster sci-fi film. There’s little in the way of action-packed robot clashes or high-speed thrill sequences. Instead, it leans into the intellectual and the philosophical, replete with existential undertones. Its aesthetic choices, narrative strength, and focus on an overarching sense of dread and melancholy culminate into an atmospheric, thought-provoking experience.

The stark noir, stark visuals and vintage special effects may seem unusual to a viewer accustomed to high-budget CGI and slick production values. However, they are fittingly consistent with the film's underlying intent, to starkly spotlight the practical and moral implications of humanity's ceaseless drive towards self-destruction.

In essence, "Automatons" is an intense, chilling, and deeply philosophical movie, making it a must-watch for post-apocalyptic and science fiction enthusiasts. Its B-movie style and underlying narrative depth create a unique story that is simultaneously haunting and captivating. And while it may not be everyone's cup of tea owing to its heavy themes and unique style, "Automatons" is a film that is sure to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.