close
test_template

A View of Alex Garland’s Film, Ex Machina

Human-Written
download print

About this sample

About this sample

close
Human-Written

Words: 426 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Published: Jan 4, 2019

Words: 426|Page: 1|3 min read

Published: Jan 4, 2019

In the bathroom scene in Ex Machina (2015), Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson) performs a test on himself, to see if he is an android like Ava, and, as he has just discovered, Kyoko. While one would think this scene should resolve the question, it only muddies the water. As Caleb examines himself in the mirror, green and blue digital effects flash on his face. Is this a function of the mirror, or a HUD of Caleb’s potentially robotic eyes? Or perhaps it is a non-diegetic element solely to heighten the viewer’s curiosity. Sound design plays an integral role in this scene as well. As he pulls at his teeth, small click sounds emanate from his mouth, which could be plastic pieces snapping, or just the sound of his fingers clicking on his teeth. The score features electronic instruments and synthesizers playing non-lyrical rising tones. This both reflects a mechanical mood, hinting that Caleb may be an android, and instills a sense of rising tension with the viewer, anxiously anticipating a reveal.

The cinematography is vital to this scene’s function. The camera work toys with the viewer, first with quick, non-continuous cuts, followed by long, suspenseful shots, keeping the audience disoriented and unable to predict the pace of the scene. As the scene progresses, the lighting shifts to emphasize his bone structure, tantalizing the audience to see what is below his skin.

One particular shot is composed so that Caleb’s arm and body form a triangle with his face obscured behind it. This separates the audience from Caleb, making the viewer wonder if they can trust and relate to him anymore. Is this a moment of revelation for him as he looks at his cut open arm? The framing of the shot, with his eye at the top of the triangle formed by his arm and body, is ever so slightly reminiscent of the Illuminati symbol, which could allude to the conspiracy facing Caleb.

What is most compelling in this scene is Gleeson’s performance. What kind of human can cut deep into their own arm without so much as flinching or uttering a sound of pain? Though he begins the scene frantic and curious, he ends the scene staring at his reflection, unblinking in a very Terminator-like fashion. He ends the scene by punching the mirror, creating a shatter which very poetically mirrors the shatter on the glass between him and Ava.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

Though this ultimately proves to be a red herring, this scene all but convinces the viewer that Caleb is likewise a robot.

Image of Dr. Charlotte Jacobson
This essay was reviewed by
Dr. Charlotte Jacobson

Cite this Essay

A View of Alex Garland’s Film, Ex Machina. (2019, January 03). GradesFixer. Retrieved December 8, 2024, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/a-view-of-alex-garlands-film-ex-machina/
“A View of Alex Garland’s Film, Ex Machina.” GradesFixer, 03 Jan. 2019, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/a-view-of-alex-garlands-film-ex-machina/
A View of Alex Garland’s Film, Ex Machina. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/a-view-of-alex-garlands-film-ex-machina/> [Accessed 8 Dec. 2024].
A View of Alex Garland’s Film, Ex Machina [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2019 Jan 03 [cited 2024 Dec 8]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/a-view-of-alex-garlands-film-ex-machina/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now