Computer genius Renner (Frankie Muniz) has developed an artificial intelligence named Salenus (voiced by Marcia Gay Harden). Functioning as a life coach, her number one directive is to increase Renner’s assertiveness so he can talk to his attractive new neighbour, Jamie (Violett Beane). After some initial awkwardness on Renner’s part, the pair agree to have dinner, though he bristles when Jamie shows up with a surprise guest: her arrogant brother, Chad (Taylor Gray). Renner and Jamie’s romance blossoms as they spend more time together. Jamie reveals her mother is experiencing financial trouble, while Renner reveals his mother was tyrannical and demanded nothing less than perfection. Salenus takes a malicious turn after meeting Jamie and Renner faces the ultimate test in assertiveness, with devastating consequences, after realising all too late that he programmed his domineering mother into Salenus’s code.
Renner is a slow-burn sci-fi that presents an interesting discussion around the integration of AI into a capitalist society. Renner refuses to sell Salenus because he wants it to remain affordable to anyone who needs it. When his technology is threatened, it feels lacking because Salenus isn’t really that powerful beyond berating Renner—she only has power over him. Writers David Largman Murray and Martin Media (with the story by Luke Medina) aim to develop their characters first and foremost. Renner has a compelling backstory which aptly explains his personality and Muniz delivers a bold performance full of vulnerability and emotional intensity. His character, however, is not always interesting. Muniz’s rendition of Renner’s obsessive compulsive rituals around hygiene and exercise are performed exceptionally, but grow tired. The film excels when Jamie and Renner are in deep conversation getting to know one another. The writing is at its best here with Beane and Muniz holding audience attention.
Directed by Robert Rippberger, the camerawork is exciting, always choosing energetic angles that feel natural to the action unfolding on-screen. The cinematography is simple yet gorgeous at times despite it often being dimly lit. It has fluorescent lighting which creates a futuristic feel. All of the action takes place inside Renner’s clean, darkly-decorated apartment (and the hallway), which adds to the uneasy atmosphere and to his character’s personality. Between this and his compulsive routines, Renner is like a pathetic Patrick Bateman, which is very relatable. Ultimately, Renner works because it’s a simple and straightforward story which takes risks with its ending, but it unfortunately feels fairly dull overall. It doesn’t add anything new to the story and the stakes don’t feel earned, likely due to a poor villain. There are much better films to watch, but if you’re interested in stories about AI or what Frankie Muniz is up to these days, then go for it. Otherwise, give this one a miss.
Renner hits US cinemas on 7th February.
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