Simulant

With that said, what truly makes Simulant special is its impressive casting. How a little indie thriller got these names is a mystery but also a fantastic payoff. Brewster has long proved herself a leading lady in The Invisible Circle and D.E.B.S. (truly one of the most underappreciated rom-coms ever made). Here, she is as dependable as ever. Faye could come off as selfish or mean due to some later actions, but the actor ensures that never happens. Audiences empathize with her, as what the character thought she wanted versus reality is hard to cope with. Very relatable. Between this, Code 8 and Arq Amell is really making a name for himself in the genre. Happily, the man is an incredible talent, so if he wants to keep doing cool nerd things, more power to him. Here, he underplays things until the restrictions are removed. It is subtle but showcases how and what changes within the Simulant after the fact. He and Brewster share wonderful chemistry as well.

Worthington sells the desperation of his agent character well. During a chase to hunt down a rogue simulant, he’s asking the populous on the street if anyone has seen her. His deadpan delivery of “Thank you for your cooperation” after his partner finds the android Esme (Alicia Sanz) is funny. Limu is charming as ever, allowing all watching to side with and root for Casey instantly.

“…jawdropping and surprising finale…”

As a director, Muller keeps Simulant moving and exciting. The chase mentioned earlier between Kessler and Esme is exciting. The way she’s caught is cool. The build-up to the jawdropping and surprising finale is so intense it takes one’s breath away. The effects are well utilized, though the masks of older-generation simulants are just creepy and off-putting.

Simulant may retread well-worn terrain, but that is not necessarily bad; Blade Runner is a classic for a reason. The characterizations are strong, and each actor portrays their respective part wonderfully. The direction keeps the tension high and the action exciting. However, the end is the most memorable, just maybe not in the way some will expect. And that is a good thing.