Upgraded and Underrated

Was I just in a good mood the night I saw this movie, or was it genuinely – brilliant?

Considering Upgrade is made by the guys who brought you Split,Get Out and Paranormal Activity it is on a completely different level to such types of movie. And in a good way too. Blumhouse Productions dish up a blend of fantasy and thriller that make a movie which is slick, progresses at a brilliant pace and involves some truly captivating moments. This one is unique, with Marshall-Green bolting through each scene like a mechanized human weapon. The actor gives a passionate performance as the victim of a brutal mugging; the heart wrenching display of Grey first returning home in paralyzed condition sets the foundation for a dramatic story perfectly. And as the character’s turmoil begins, an undertone of sci fi bubbles underneath before exploding in all its militant glory..

Perhaps the best thing about this movie is how it combines sadness with triumph to deliver the message that something good can come out of something bad. It isolates the lead character whose life has been turned upside down, then the the tragedy steadily turns into opportunity once Grey’s body – and life – is altered. It’s as though his life is over.. yet just beginning.
Upgrade is one of those rare gems I appreciated, but saw very little about it advertised. I think I caught a very short trailer in the cinema once but never saw any poster advertisements around or other promotional materials. And upon checking the Cineworld app for films to watch that week, something called Upgrade was listed near the bottom of the page. I think it’s a highly underrated piece of film that deserved much more publicity than it did (or that I noticed in / around my local area). It is a refreshing and well-made fantasy-tragedy worthy of more recognition. Perhaps it was more popular in other cities and countries.

The fight scenes are nothing short of stunning and use very slick visuals which make the lead character appear like some sort of superhero at points. The way he tilts and swings at sharp angles during a punch-up with an enemy is almost hilarious, and makes compelling viewing.

Upgrade has made it into my Best of 2018. It is a highly entertaining fantasy feature and incredibly dark at the same time. Tech meets human and explodes on to screen in the form of a (not bad looking) furry man who delivers a superb performance, both emotionally and physically.