Selfless

Selfless, also known as Self/Less, is a thrilling slice of science fiction and action that debuted in 2015. It is an intriguing blend of morality play, character-driven drama, and suspense-filled plot that works together to create an exciting on-screen experience. Directed by Tarsem Singh and written by David and Alex Pastor, the film boasts an engaging story and an experienced cast to produce an enthralling adventure coupled with a compelling exploration of humanity's quest for immortality.

The storyline of Selfless, without giving away any spoilers, is focused on the concept of "shedding" - a radical medical procedure that transfers the consciousness of one person into another, younger body. Billionaire industrialist Damian Hale, played by the seasoned and energetic Ben Kingsley, is the protagonist of the movie. Hale, a master of the 'you-only-live-once' mantra, is a hard-nosed, successful businessman based in New York City fighting a losing battle with terminal cancer. Given his vast resources and fear of mortality, he decides to subject himself to the experimental procedure of consciousness transfer, despite its ethical quandaries and potential risks.

Matthew Goode, known for his roles in movies like The Imitation Game and A Single Man, masterfully plays the role of Albright, the scientist responsible for this ground-breaking procedure. Albright presents Hale with the opportunity of a lifetime - rather, another lifetime. He gives Hale the chance to live again in the form of a younger, healthier body, portrayed in the film by Ryan Reynolds, best known for roles in films like Deadpool and The Proposal. Reynolds brings a fitting blend of charm, physicality and dramatic prowess to the role, making the narrative all the more engaging.

Reborn as 'Edward', Damian enjoys a mind-boggling, sensory-rich new life filled with luxury and ease. But soon, disturbing flashbacks begin to cloud his perception. Though initially believing these memories to be side effects of the procedure, 'Edward' bears witness to fragments of life that aren't his. As the veil lifts, the startling reality of his new body's origins begins to unfold, pitching him into a dangerous underworld filled with secrets he was never meant to uncover.

Damian/Edward's thrilling journey to uncover the truth behind his new existence forms the crux of the movie. Along the way, he also grapples with critical questions about identity, morality, and the true value of life.

The supporting cast, including Victor Garber and Natalie Martinez, delivers solid performances that supplement the unfolding narrative. All the characters are engaging and well-developed, contributing to the complexity and depth of the story. The rare blend of action, suspense and thought-provoking storytelling that Selfless presents to its audience makes it an outstanding piece of cinema in the science fiction genre.

Tarsem Singh’s directorial vision shines throughout Selfless, working seamlessly with the film’s pleasing cinematography and effective soundtrack. The film's pacing maintains a steady balance between thoughtful dialogue, character development, and nail-biting action. The narrative is spiced with sufficient twists and turns to keep audiences engaged and intrigued till the end.

The film, while being a science-fiction thriller, also delves into philosophical and existential themes. It constructs a narrative around the question of what makes us who we are. It engages with the ethics of immortality and the concept of selfhood, bringing an introspective angle to the exciting storyline.

In conclusion, Selfless is a thought-provoking, suspenseful, and engaging exploration of immortality, identity, and ethics. With an exceptional cast and a captivating plot, it serves as a thrilling film that pushes the boundaries of traditional science fiction, offering a unique, entertaining, and reflective cinematic experience. It is a film that will keep the viewers hooked from start to finish, leaving them lingering on the ethical dilemmas it presents long after the credits roll.