Which Movie Left You Speechless? A Critical Review of 'Lucy'

Have you ever watched a movie where the final scene left you both thrilled and fundamentally baffled? For many, that experience is a unique blend of awe and frustration. For me, the film that falls into this category is Luc Besson's 'Lucy' (2014).

The Backdrop: A Fun Yet Substantially Overly-Styled Movie

In the early 2010s, I stumbled upon a film recommended by friends: 'The Fifth Element' (1997). While I've always been a fan of Luc Besson’s work, 'The Fifth Element' stands out as a film that leans heavily on style over substance. However, it's the kind of movie that's fun to watch for its quirky charm and iconic moments.

Personal Connection and Initial Impression

'The Fifth Element' drew me in partly because of the distinctive presence of Lucy Liu, the lovely Ms. Johansson, as the title character. The presence of Morgan Freeman, with his characteristic gravitas, didn't hurt either. The film had a curious Matrix-like vibe that appealed to my sci-fi interests. Overall, 'The Fifth Element' while not perfect, was a mix of enjoyable entertainment and intriguing speculation.

The Plot and Its Intricacies

Entering 'Lucy' with similar expectations, I was not disappointed initially. The story is a bit of a cortical rollercoaster, filled with mythological elements and metaphysical questions about reality. Yet, despite these philosophical undertones, the film maintained its entertaining pace. The character of Lucy, played by Scarlett Johansson, evolves as the plot unfolds. Her increasing use of the human brain was intriguing and even enthralling.

Metaphysics and Reality

One of the most captivating aspects of 'Lucy' was its exploration of metaphysical concepts of reality. As the film delves into deeper layers of human cognition and neurological function, it leaves the audience pondering what it means to be 'human' in a world of advanced brain function. The idea that her brain capacity could be used to reshape reality was both mind-bending and thought-provoking.

The Final Blow: A Shocking Ending

While 'Lucy' provided an engaging narrative and an innovative concept, it was the final scene that left me confused and frustrated. The climax of the film, where Lucy, having reached an extraordinary state of cognitive function, is depicted in a manner that transformed her into a commodity rather than a human being, was bewildering. The scene where she turns into a flash drive and vanishes was the straw that broke the camel's back.

Comparisons and Personal Reflections

That final scene was so jarring, it reminded me of how the ending of 'Star Trek: Into Darkness' felt. While both films were criticized for their endings, 'Lucy's' left me questioning the intentions of its creators. The alternative universe we See Clancy's super blood curing death in 'Star Trek: Into Darkness' was, at least, more romantically tragic than the cold, clinical ending of 'Lucy'.

Conclusion: A Bittersweet Experience

While 'Lucy' was a movie with potential, its final act ultimately undermined its alluring premise. The film makes bold claims about the human brain and reality, but its ending feels like a dismissal of those ideas. If you find yourself intrigued by the initial promise of the film but left with a sense of disappointment, 'Lucy' may not be the disappointment you were expecting. Nevertheless, it remains a fascinating piece, leaving its audience with much to think about, even if the conclusion doesn't fully follow through on its promises.

Additional Thoughts: 'Goodnight Mommy'

Moreover, a similar feeling of intrigue, followed by confusion, can be experienced with the film 'Goodnight Mommy'. This psychological thriller offers deep symbolism and layered stories, but it also can leave viewers questioning the narrative's intentions and coherence. While 'Lucy' leans on a more conventional sci-fi narrative, 'Goodnight Mommy' delves into psychological horror and complex sibling dynamics, making it another film that can be both captivating and perplexing.