Netflix’s 'The Electric State' Struggles to Deliver on Its $320 Million Budget

The Russo brothers' sci-fi blockbuster receives criticism for its lack of depth, muddled storytelling, and over-reliance on nostalgia.

The Electric State, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, debuts on Netflix on March 14, 2025, with a massive $320 million budget.
The film is based on Simon Stålenhag's retro-futurist graphic novel but has been criticized for failing to capture the depth and themes of the source material.
Critics point to the movie's convoluted narrative and its inability to explore its ambitious sci-fi concepts meaningfully, despite its elaborate world-building.
While the visual effects and unique robot designs have been praised, the film's overuse of nostalgic references and lackluster humor detract from its impact.
Strong performances from Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, and others are overshadowed by the film's formulaic storytelling and thematic inconsistencies.