Netflix recently added a fantastic sci-fi movie to its lineup! Like many streaming services, Netflix adds new titles at the beginning of each month, with more releases following throughout. This month, along with films like The American President, Ex Machina, Hell or High Water, and How to Train Your Dragon, viewers can also look forward to the live-action How to Train Your Dragon on February 10th and The Black Phone on February 12th.
Netflix added a hidden sci-fi treasure called Archive on February 6th – it’s a must-see for fans of the genre. This 2020 British film, directed by Gavin Rothery in his first feature film, stars Theo James, Rhona Mitra, and Toby Jones. The story follows a scientist who’s determined to use artificial intelligence to reunite with his deceased wife.
Why Should You Watch Archive on Netflix?
The sci-fi film Archive is a hidden treasure that doesn’t get nearly enough recognition. Its release was unfortunately hampered by the cancellation of the 2020 South by Southwest Film Festival due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, it received a limited release, appearing mostly on digital platforms with few theatrical showings. This was a shame, as the movie offers a thought-provoking exploration of the dangers of artificial intelligence and the ethical implications of ‘playing god’.
Theo James, known from the Divergent series, plays George, a man grieving the loss of his wife, Jules. After she dies in a car accident, her consciousness is preserved in a device by a company called Archive, allowing George to communicate with her for a limited time. Secretly, George is also a scientist working on a more permanent solution: a robot that could house her consciousness indefinitely. Like classic stories such as Frankenstein and films like Ex Machina, this is a tale about the dangers of trying to overcome death by creating artificial life – a pursuit that rarely ends well.
Despite its flaws, the movie ends with a surprising twist that completely changes how you see the story, making it one of the more thoughtful science fiction films of recent years. Critics generally liked it, giving it a 78% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences scored it a bit lower at 68%. Most reviewers agreed that the film is a compelling exploration of love and what it means to be human. Instead of judging the scientist for trying to overcome death, it thoughtfully examines the importance of acceptance and letting go.
Gavin Rothery’s been waiting for another directing opportunity since his film Archive, and its difficult release may have hindered his career. He previously showcased his talent for intelligent science fiction as a graphic designer on Duncan Jones’ acclaimed film Moon (2009). Now, with Archive available on Netflix, there’s hope it will lead to future projects. If his next film is anything like Archive, it could be another hidden sci-fi treasure, and hopefully, it will find a wider audience.
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2026-02-08 01:10