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Why sci-fi stunner Ex Machina was easier for the director than the actors
The science fiction thriller Ex Machinabegan garnering buzz long before it hit European theaters in January. Ahead of its highly anticipated U.S. release, SXSW Film attendees got a sneak peek of the movie (in Dallas theaters now) that compels audiences to reflect on their own humanity.
The story centers around an intelligent computer programmer (played by Domhnall Gleeson) who is asked to study a gorgeous robot woman. Her artificial intelligence is so convincing, in fact, she even caused a stir on Tinder during SXSW.
Despite a dense plot, intense marketing ploys and potential existential crises, writer and director Alex Garland said making the film was easier than it appears. "This is the easiest film I've worked on — by miles," Garland told us on the red carpet.
The story was different for those in front of the camera. "There was a bit of a challenge for the actors," Garland said. "We had to shoot it in six weeks, which is quick. So for them, there was a lot pressure to sort of get things right fast so we could move on."
Watch our interview with Garland above, and check out quick red carpet snippets from Oscar Isaac and Domhnall Gleeson.