iBoy

Let me be clear about something, I have a bias generally against British cinema as it usually focuses on things I don't find appealing and features a cast I cannot abide. Within British cinema you very commonly have the "Estate" movies and that's what this is, putting it at an even further disadvantage with me.

It tells the story of a young man who after being shot in the head and having his mobile phone splinter into his skull gains the ability to control digital devices. Arguably it's comparable with Watchdogs (2014) and that's a good thing.

Starring the adorable diminutive Maisie "Arya Stark" Williams and Miranda Richardson it has a passable cast considering the "Estate" aspect and we see our hero battling against the local gang and their powerful bosses.

In movies like this they have the habit of casting obnoxious pretty boy guy types to play the lead whereas here Bill Milner avoids that and comes across likeable and endearing for the most part. As a lead female Williams is good but I was left feeling they didn't do enough with her. Then we have Rory Kinnear as our antagonist who I'm unfamiliar with yet after this incredible performance will keep an eye out for in future movies.

iBoy by all rights could have been better, the concept felt a tad wasted, it perhaps could have done with an additional 30+ minutes and the finale was a total anti-climatic bust.

Regardless I enjoyed iBoy despite a host of reasons on paper why I really shouldn't have. Enjoyable stuff, especially if you go in without preconceptions.

The Good:

Maisie Williams and Rory Kinnear

A fitting lead

The Bad:

Doesn't utilize it's concept very well

Poor finale

Boy, a cyber-technical thriller, delivers an engaging plot but falters in its execution when it comes to scientific reasoning, which could have elevated the movie's credibility and depth. The story revolves around a teenager, Tom (played by Bill Milner), who gains extraordinary abilities after a freak accident involving fragments of a smartphone embedded in his brain. While the premise is unique and intriguing, the lack of a solid scientific explanation for Tom's newfound powers feels like a missed opportunity. This shortfall leaves some viewers, especially those with an interest in technology and science, yearning for a more plausible narrative.

On the performance front, Maisie Williams shines as Lucy, a character who adds emotional depth and vulnerability to the story. Her portrayal is compelling, showcasing her range as an actress and making her character one of the highlights of the film. Bill Milner as Tom also delivers a commendable performance, convincingly portraying a teenager grappling with newfound powers and the moral dilemmas that come with them. His nuanced performance keeps the audience invested in his journey.

However, the movie's climax is where it stumbles the most. The resolution lacks the surprise or twists typical of thrillers, making the ending somewhat predictable. For a film that builds up tension and stakes throughout, the straightforward conclusion feels underwhelming. This predictability detracts from the overall impact, leaving viewers wishing for a more gripping finale.

Despite its flaws, iBoy is an engaging watch. The concept is fresh, the performances are strong, and the pacing keeps the audience hooked. For fans of cyber-related stories and those who appreciate solid acting, it's worth a watch. However, for those seeking a more scientifically grounded or twist-filled narrative, the film might fall short.

Rating: 6/10 While iBoy has its moments of brilliance, its inability to fully capitalize on its premise and its predictable climax prevent it from becoming a standout in the genre. Still, its engaging narrative and strong performances make it an enjoyable experience overall.

I had checked this out several times, but never really fancied it, what a total surprise this turned out to be, the story is of course far fetched, but it somehow doesn't go too far over the top.at any point.

It's pretty much a tale of revenge, we get to see plenty of nasty little thugs put where they should be, and there's also a very human side to it too.

Some really great shots of the big City, it looks fantastic throughout.

Very well acted, although it's Rory Kinnear that I most enjoyed watching, he's always a good guy, here he plays a thug, and he's terrific, Maisie Williams also impresses as does Bill Milner throughout.

It's a great watch, 8/10

A great double feature movie would be "Attack the Block," and "iBoy."

Bill Milner, playing an offbeat nerdy looking hero, commands every scene he appears in, which is pretty amazing, since Maisie Williams steals every scene she's in with her own unique beauty and a to-die-for personality. Ya, I've been a fan of hers since day one on "Game of Thrones."

"iBoy" has plenty of action, but it doesn't skimp on taking the time to get inside the character's heads. The special effects look cool, without overpowering the camera work, and the sets are perfect for the story.

Rory Kinnear, who I shall always remember as the Creature in "Penny Dreadful," gives us a near perfect villain, although I really wish they had given him more screen time.

Take a leap of faith and accept that having parts of an iPhone embedded in your brain turns you into a talented cyborg, and you will have a grand time. In other words, don't pick the movie apart. Just enjoy it.

The whole idea of, pieces of smartphone embedded in somebody's brain gives them superpowers, is so mindbogglingly stupid, it's hard look past it. If you can however, there's as decent film there.

Maisie Williams is terrific as ever, but so is the rest of the cast! Bill Milner did really well in the lead roll, and I'm sure Charley Palmer Rothwell will get to play more villains.

The direction was good too, it all felt very connected to the present (even if it's 5 years old by now). Too bad the premise is so dumb.

But that's the problem isn't it? This movie tries to be realistic present day and sci-fi at the same time. That just doesn't work.

Acting: 8,5 Direction: 7 Story: 4.