‘Landscape With Invisible Hand’ Review: Aliens Want To Be Your Dad? [Sundance Film Festival]

Landscape with Invisible Hand is directed by Cory Finley, known for his breakout film Thoroughbreds. The film is based on the book of the same name by M.T Anderson and depicts the integration of aliens into human society, leading to a takeover where the wealthy live on floating lands with the aliens, and the rest on a depleted Earth. The movie offers a glimpse into the lives of Chloe and Adam’s families as they navigate this new world.

A still from Landscape With invisible Hand by Cory Finley, an official selection of the Premiers program at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. Courtesy of Sundance Institute

A Complex Story Told Through Great Visuals and Acting

The film boasts impressive visuals and an Orwellian tone, evoking thoughts about present-day society. The aliens’ unique appearance and language add impact to the film, as the story explores the theme of wealth inequality through the use of aliens and invasion as a metaphor. The lead actors, Asantee Blackk and Kylie Rogers, deliver outstanding performances as kids navigating their relationship in this dystopian world, adding depth and exploring themes of love and desperation. The other actors also add humor and commentary which give room to breathe from the more heavier subject matter.

Landscape with Invisible Hand presents multiple storylines, including Adam’s family’s struggles, offering a rich and thought-provoking experience. With multiple storylines the film can feel like it’s rushing to close them and that might be a bit off putting but by the end it does wrap up nicely. The film’s conclusion raises many questions and leaves the audience wanting more. Despite its ambitious nature, the film presents deep societal values in an engaging and accessible manner, appealing to not only sci-fi fans, but also the general movie-going audience.

Final Thoughts on Landscape with Invisible Hand

Overall, Landscape with Invisible Hand is a film that promises to spark discussions and generate buzz. I found myself really thinking about this film a lot after. There is a lot to enjoy with this movie and feels like a complete package to me. With stunning music, visuals, and talented actors, the film blends humor, heart, and complexity. The only disappointment is the desire to spend more time in this world and the hope that it will be explored further in the future.

Our rating for Landscape with Invisible Hand is 3.5/5

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