Director
Gerard Johnstone

Starring
Allison Williams, Violet McGraw and Ronny Chieng

Who would have thought that Blumhouse Productions could be responsible for what’s likely to be one of the funniest films of the year? If like me, you’ve already seen the trailer for the latest offering from the famed horror production company, you might be surprised to hear that there are more laugh out loud moments than genuine scares. Despite the very different vibe of the film to what was expected, it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment factor.

Allison Williams (GET OUT) features as Gemma, a robotics scientist working for a toy company who gains custody of her young niece Cady (Violet McGraw) following the death of her sister and brother in-law. Prior to the huge change of circumstance, Gemma had been working on a prototype for a new toy named Megan (short for Model 3 Generative Android). Megan is a fully functioning robotic girl, who looks as creepy as she sounds. Once Gemma brings Cady home with her, she struggles to connect with the grieving youngster, that is until Gemma introduces Cady to Megan. Megan is paired to Cady and the two become fast friends. Cady becomes heavily reliant on the comfort she gets from her android companion, and Megan is programmed to learn and focus on the needs of her human operator, which is beautiful….until it becomes deadly. From here we’re shown all of the terrifying possibilities of AI that can learn faster than a human and interact with every appliance and gadget containing a computer chip.

M3GAN sounds like a terrifying outing, and had every opportunity to be just that, but thanks to some very clever writing and pitch perfect performances from supporting cast members like Ronny Chieng (CRAZY RICH ASIANS), this is at times a camp and hilarious ride. The film isn’t afraid to poke fun at itself and its somewhat far-fetched premise. It’s not trying to be something more than it needs to be, and in not trying it manages to surpass what many would think it could be. It’s definitely been a refreshing change to go into a movie expecting one thing, getting something entirely different and actually being more satisfied than you thought you would be originally…even as a traditional horror film enthusiast.   

As it turns out M3GAN might be the perfect film for any couples/friends/family that constantly argue over whether they should watch a horror or comedy on their next movie night. This one has it all. You will laugh, you will feel creeped out and you will have a fun time through it all.

M3GAN is in cinemas now.