Foe (2023)

Based on Iain Reid’s 2018 novel of the same name, Foe is a science fiction psychological thriller film directed by Garth Davis from a screenplay he co-wrote with Reid. It is very difficult to discuss it without giving things away, so this review will be brief.

A new government programme aims to test whether humans can survive in space as well as whether AI lookalikes could eventually replace humans who are confined to it. Foe is set in a near-future America where climate change is wreaking havoc on the environment. The story follows the story of a couple, Junior (Paul Mescal) and Hen (Saoirse Ronan), who live in a remote farmhouse. Their quiet life is thrown into turmoil when an uninvited stranger named Terrance (Aaron Pierre) shows up at their door with a startling proposal (actually a conscription) to send Junior into space and to replace him with an AI look-alike that is indistinguishable from him to keep Hen company while he is away. The couple is forced to confront their fears and insecurities as they try to uncover the truth about Terrance and his intentions.

While Foe has strong sci-fi elements, it is more focused on the themes of identity and relationships, which are universal and relatable. The plot is intriguing and kept me engaged throughout the movie. The theme and tone of the movie are dark and thought-provoking, with a sense of unease and tension that builds up gradually.

The acting performances are excellent, with Saoirse Ronan delivering a nuanced portrayal of a woman struggling with her identity and Paul Mescal bringing depth to his character’s emotional turmoil. Aaron Pierre’s performance as Terrance is also noteworthy, although his character’s motivations and backstory are not fully explored.

The direction by Garth Davis is competent, but the pacing of the movie could have been improved. The music is haunting and adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie. The cinematography by Mátyás Erdély is visually stunning, with the use of natural light and shadows creating a sense of isolation and claustrophobia.

The movie’s use of symbolism and production design is subtle but effective, with the farmhouse and its surroundings representing the characters’ emotional states. The special effects are minimal but well executed, with the use of sound design and editing techniques creating a sense of unease and tension. However, the movie’s use of colour is inconsistent, with some scenes appearing washed out and others overly saturated. The editing could also have been tighter, with some scenes feeling repetitive and unnecessary.

Foe is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama with room for improvement. While the acting performances and cinematography are commendable, the pacing and editing could have been tighter. The movie’s themes and tone are dark and thought-provoking, with a sense of unease and tension that builds up gradually. I would recommend this movie to fans of sci-fi dramas who enjoy thought-provoking and introspective movies. Be aware, though, that there is more drama than sci-fi, although sci-fi provides the backdrop for the entire film.

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)