Swan Song (I) (2021)
7/10
A winning cast sabotaged by the ending
18 December 2021
I like these futuristic themes centered on moral dilemmas caused by the rapid rise of technology. "Swan Song" is an awful title; I don't know why another title with a better hook to it is not chosen. At any rate, the concept here has been explored many times in other shows like "Black Mirror," "Solos," "Multiplicity," "Replicas," and probably even "The Twilight Zone." I enjoy the mysterious minimalistic ambience throughout this movie, and top that off with a likable cast with their respective acting chops, and you have yourself a winner. From Mahershala Ali who completely immerses himself in all of his roles, giving us a convincing performance every time with his wide range from subtle contemplation to heartfelt rage, to Awkwafina who is very good here deviating from her typical wild, outrageous, funny self. Notice that the 'people of color' actors here are playing roles that are not race-specific. This is definitely a step in the right direction when we are no longer typecasting someone like Awkwafina for only Asian-themed roles like in "Crazy Rich Asians" or Mahershala Ali in "Green Book." And let's not forget the presence of Glenn Close, showing us that a mature woman can also be a pioneer in tech. Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, step aside please.

Towards the end of the movie, some ambiguity begins to be thrown in which feels contrived. It is a lazy and rushed way to end the movie. The actual last scene tries to be so emotional but it just comes across as unsatisfying, which is a shame because this movie initially has so much promise.
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