Morgan (2016), directed by Luke Scott in his feature debut and written by Seth Owen, is a psychological thriller that delves into the complex intersection of science, ethics, and humanity. The film explores the consequences of advanced genetic engineering and artificial intelligence through the story of an experimental AI that begins to show unsettling signs of unpredictability. Starring Kate Mara, Anya Taylor-Joy, Toby Jones, Michelle Yeoh, and Paul Giamatti, Morgan delivers a chilling narrative that questions the boundaries between human and artificial life.

The plot of Morgan centers around a corporate risk management consultant, Lee Weathers (Kate Mara), who is sent to investigate the mysterious behavior of an artificial human named Morgan (Anya Taylor-Joy). Created by a team of scientists in a secluded research facility, Morgan appears outwardly as a 12-year-old girl but is, in fact, an advanced bioengineered being. As the investigation unfolds, Lee discovers that Morgan’s behavior has become increasingly violent and unpredictable, leading to a tense confrontation between Lee and the scientists who are deeply invested in Morgan’s well-being and continued existence. The film raises important ethical questions about the role of science and technology in shaping life, as well as the potential dangers of playing God.

A central theme in Morgan is the blurred line between humanity and artificial life. Morgan, though created in a lab, exhibits emotions, desires, and a capacity for violence that mirror those of humans. Her development—both intellectually and emotionally—questions what it means to be human. As Morgan’s abilities and awareness grow, so does her desire for freedom, which leads to her increasingly erratic and dangerous behavior. The film presents a compelling moral dilemma: is Morgan merely a creation of science, or is she a being with her own rights and agency? As the lines between creator and creation blur, the characters struggle with their own moralities and fears.

The performances in Morgan are a standout element of the film, particularly those of Kate Mara and Anya Taylor-Joy. Kate Mara brings a cold, detached intensity to the role of Lee Weathers, a character who is tasked with making tough decisions and maintaining control in an environment that is rapidly spiraling out of hand. Anya Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of Morgan is equally powerful, capturing the complexity of a being caught between innocence and the potential for violence. Taylor-Joy conveys Morgan’s internal struggle with subtlety, making her character both sympathetic and unsettling. The chemistry between Mara and Taylor-Joy is central to the film, as their characters represent two opposing forces—humanity’s desire for control versus the growing autonomy of artificial life.

Morgan also stands out visually, with director Luke Scott employing a sleek, minimalist style that mirrors the sterile environment of the research facility where most of the film takes place. The film’s cinematography, by Mark Patten, uses stark lighting and cold, metallic colors to create an atmosphere of tension and unease. The research facility, isolated from the outside world, feels both futuristic and claustrophobic, emphasizing the emotional and intellectual isolation of the characters. The film’s visuals are designed to enhance the sense of detachment between the scientists and Morgan, highlighting the dangerous consequences of treating her as nothing more than a project to be studied and controlled.

At its core, Morgan is a psychological thriller that explores themes of identity, creation, and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. The film raises profound questions about the nature of artificial intelligence and the extent to which humans are willing to go to control and shape new life. The tension between the characters, their relationships with Morgan, and the growing violence around her all contribute to the film’s exploration of these themes. As the story unfolds, Morgan challenges the audience to consider whether it is possible to truly “create” a life, and if so, what responsibilities come with that creation.

In conclusion, Morgan (2016) is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that blends action, suspense, and ethical dilemmas in a world shaped by advanced biotechnology. Luke Scott’s directorial debut is marked by a strong narrative and powerful performances, particularly from Kate Mara and Anya Taylor-Joy. The film’s exploration of the boundaries between human and artificial life, as well as the consequences of tampering with nature, provides a chilling reflection on the possibilities and dangers of technological progress. As the lines between creator and creation become increasingly blurred, Morgan offers a disturbing and poignant look at what it means to be human in an era of rapidly advancing science.