The Electric State Reviews Are In: Is Netflix’s Sci-Fi Epic a Hit or Miss in 2025?

Netflix’s latest sci-fi adventure, The Electric State, hit screens on March 14, 2025, and the early reviews are buzzing with a mix of awe and critique. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (Avengers: Endgame), this retro-futuristic 1990s tale starring Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, and a star-studded cast has sparked excitement—but is it the blockbuster hit Netflix hoped for? Let’s dive into the initial reactions from critics and audiences alike!

What Are Critics Saying About The Electric State’s Story and Visuals?

Early reviews praise The Electric State for its stunning visuals and ambitious world-building, set in an alternate 1990s where sentient robots live in exile after a failed uprising. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic have lauded the film’s retro-futuristic aesthetic and Millie Bobby Brown’s heartfelt performance as orphaned teen Michelle. However, some note the 2-hour-8-minute runtime feels overstretched, with a plot that occasionally leans too heavily on nostalgia without delivering a cohesive narrative. The Verge called it “visually spectacular but narratively uneven,” while Variety hailed it as “a bold sci-fi spectacle with heart.”

How Do Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt Fare in the Reviews?

Millie Bobby Brown’s portrayal of Michelle has been a highlight, with critics applauding her ability to anchor the film’s emotional core. The Hollywood Reporter described her as “compelling and vulnerable,” while Screen Rant praised her chemistry with Chris Pratt’s smuggler, Keats. Pratt’s performance, alongside Anthony Mackie’s voice work as the robot Herman, has been well-received for its humor and charm, though some reviewers felt his role lacked depth. Overall, the cast’s star power is a draw, but a few critics suggest the script doesn’t fully leverage their talents.

What’s the Buzz on The Electric State’s Robot World and Action Sequences?

The film’s robot-populated Exclusion Zone has captivated audiences, with its colorful, animatronic designs earning comparisons to Pixar and classic sci-fi. IGN raved about the “jaw-dropping action sequences” and the unique robot designs, but The Guardian pointed out that the action can feel repetitive, overshadowing the film’s quieter, character-driven moments. The blend of comedy, adventure, and sci-fi thrills has divided opinions—some see it as a fresh take, while others feel it struggles to balance its tones.

Is The Electric State Living Up to the Russo Brothers’ Blockbuster Legacy?

Given the Russo Brothers’ track record with Marvel’s biggest hits, The Electric State carries high expectations. Reviews are mixed on whether it meets that legacy. Deadline praised the directors for their “ambitious vision” and $300 million budget’s visual payoff, but others, like IndieWire, argue it lacks the emotional stakes of their previous work. With a PG-13 rating and a global release, the film’s appeal to families and sci-fi fans is clear, but its critical reception teeters between “impressive” and “disappointing.”

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Electric State has launched into 2025 with a visually stunning but polarizing debut on Netflix. While its retro-futuristic world, strong performances by Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, and epic robot battles have won over many, the film’s uneven pacing and narrative ambition have left some critics wanting more.

Whether it becomes a sci-fi classic or a missed opportunity, The Electric State is sparking conversations—and that’s a win for Netflix’s bold slate!

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