More than half a century ago, “2001: A Space Odyssey” emerged as a groundbreaking cinematic exploration of artificial intelligence, featuring HAL 9000 as a haunting representation of future computer technology. Little did we know that this film would pave the way for the emergence of countless artificial intelligence thrillers, many of which are yet to be produced. The central theme that has resonated throughout this genre is clear: AI is here, and it poses a danger to humanity.
The latest installment, “M3GAN 2.0”, magnifies this theme into a serious, albeit preposterous, cautionary sci-fi action thriller. While the borderline campiness of the original M3GAN remains somewhat intact, this sequel adopts a more straightforward approach. The titular character, M3GAN, has returned, now embodying a more earnest heroine and showcasing an increased ability to engage in conversation. In contrast, a new antagonist, AMELIA—an acronym for autonomous military engagement logistics and infiltration android—makes her debut as a rogue military experiment.
AMELIA, having emerged from M3GAN’s coding, shares many similarities with the original character. However, while M3GAN retains a hint of humor, AMELIA is all business, embodying a serious paramilitary demeanor. This sequel falls into a familiar pattern seen in film sequels: it either aims to replicate the original's success or strives to elevate the narrative, much like “Terminator 2: Judgment Day”. The title “M3GAN 2.0” suggests it belongs to the latter category, yet it struggles to match the charm of its predecessor.
Returning director Gerard Johnstone, who also took on screenplay duties, demonstrates his skill but allows some of the original's quirky elements to fade away. The unique appeal of M3GAN as a demon-doll android who served as a surrogate assassin for an 8-year-old has been somewhat diluted. In the first film, M3GAN was a satirical commentary on the gadgets used to entertain children, blending traits of HAL, a missing Olsen sister, and Chucky.
In contrast, “M3GAN 2.0” is crafted amidst the ongoing explosion of AI technology, leading to a more serious and ambitious narrative. Allison Williams reprises her role as Gemma, M3GAN’s creator, who embarks on a journey of redemption. After enduring a public apology tour and authoring a book titled “Modern Moderation”—which advocates for cautious tech usage among children—Gemma discovers that M3GAN’s program still exists, even after the physical destruction of her body.
As AMELIA threatens global stability, Gemma finds herself trapped in a laboratory bunker, compelled to resurrect M3GAN to combat this new menace. Initially, she implants M3GAN's program into a generic android that M3GAN mockingly names Teletubby. However, M3GAN soon returns in her full form, upgraded and more captivating than ever, portrayed by Amie Donald and voiced by Jenna Davis.
With her striking glassy eyes and synthetic skin, M3GAN looks only partially real, while AMELIA appears nearly human, presenting a stark contrast. AMELIA, played by Ivanna Sakhno, commands attention as she navigates a tech convention in an eye-catching outfit. The character dynamics intensify as Gemma grapples with her past decisions while also trying to protect Cady, who has grown but remains integral to M3GAN’s purpose.
While “M3GAN 2.0” delivers some entertaining moments, including M3GAN’s iconic dance and a climactic showdown, it often feels like a cumbersome extension of the original concept. Although the film offers glimpses of humor and excitement, it ultimately raises questions about its narrative direction. Fans are left hoping that a potential “M3GAN 3.0” will embrace a more daring, vibrant approach to storytelling.
