Captive State
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Actors: John Goodman, Ashton Sanders, Jonathan Majors
PlotSet in Chicago nearly a decade after an extraterrestrial force has occupied Earth, the narrative explores the lives of the citizens who live under the strict control of an alien-led government known as "The Legislature." Society is divided sharply between those who collaborate with the occupiers, benefiting from their advanced technology and governance, and the resistors, who are viewed as insurgents fighting for the freedom of humanity. The city has become a tightly monitored landscape, with all forms of rebellion harshly suppressed by the extraterrestrial authorities and their human collaborators. Amidst this setting, the population endures under the watchful eyes of drones and patrol units, attempting to navigate a life of compliance or resistance under the alien rule.
The story focuses on a young man, Gabriel, who becomes entangled in the burgeoning resistance movement against the alien overseers. Struggling with the memory of his parents, who were leaders in the early days of opposition before their disappearance, Gabriel is drawn into the conflict between the insurgents and the collaborating government forces. The narrative juxtaposes Gabriel's personal journey with the broader societal impacts of alien occupation, examining themes of freedom, collaboration, and resistance. As Gabriel becomes more involved, he uncovers a deeper web of intrigue, alliances, and secrets that challenge his understanding of the world around him, pushing him towards a critical decision that could alter the course of the resistance and the future of humanity under alien rule.
Writers: Erica Beeney, Rupert Wyatt
Release Date: 15 Mar 2019
Runtime: 109 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Captive State lacks full cinema depth but offers rich audiovisuals and a poignant, albeit flawed, reflection on resilience under oppression.
Read our review of Captive State Blu-ray to find out more