The Sci Fi Thriller, Infinite, was released in 2021, directed by Antoine Fuqua and based on the novel The Reincarnationist Papers by D. Eric Maikranz. It follows leader of a secret society of “reincarnates” Evan McCauley as he searches for powerful artifacts to prevent evil forces from taking over the world. Despite its all-star cast, uplifting soundtrack, and unique setting, critics have been less than kind about Infinite, raising important questions about what we can learn from a movie like this. In this article, I aim to provide an in-depth critical assessment of the science fiction thriller, analyzing the major plot points, characters, themes, and reception of Infinite.
Production
Infinite was written by Ian Shorr, John Lee Hancock, and Marc Silvestri, directed by Antoine Fuqua, produced by Lorenzo di Bonaventura and John Lee Hancock, with music composed by Trevor Rabin. It stars Mark Wahlberg as Evan McCauley, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Bathurst, Sophie Cookson as M Roz, Jason Mantzoukas as Arthur, and Toby Jones as Agent Williamson. Principal photography began in late 2020 and wrapped up in early 2021.
Plot
Evan McCauley (Mark Wahlberg) is diagnosed with schizophrenia and sent to a mental facility, where he is warned of his delusions of leading a secret society of immortals who are tasked with preserving the world’s knowledge and power. After escaping, Evan is aided by the mysterious figure of Bathurst (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who helps him locate a powerful artifact known as the Kronos Key. This allows him to unlock the secrets of the Infinite, a mysterious organization that seeks to prevent evil forces from using the power of knowledge to take over the world.
With the help of M. Roz (Sophie Cookson), a new recruit of the Infinite, Evan discovers the dark truth of their mission: to protect the world from an impending disaster called The Red Rain, a phenomena that could wipe out all life on Earth. To do this, the Infinite choose to train their members in special abilities and use them to battle a race of mysterious entities called the Tholdon.
Themes
Infinite explores a range of themes, from the modern enigma of mental illness to the eternal struggle of good vs evil. Mental illness is a core theme, with Evan’s schizophrenia standing in for his spiritual burden, as well as a metaphor for our personal struggles with the uncertainty of life. This theme is further explored in the mysterious organization of the Infinite, which serves as a testament to the power of the individual’s will to resist overwhelming, external influences.
The battle between good and evil is also a major theme. While the Infinite and their members represent the forces of good, they are faced with an intimidating enemy in the Tholdon, a mysterious, powerful race that threatens to bring chaos to the world. The climax of the movie brings forth a cathartic struggle at the headquarters of the Tholdon, with each side battling for the ultimate victory.
Main Characters
Evan McCauley: Evan is the protagonist of Infinite, a young man suffering from schizophrenia who discovers he has a mysterious power, and is chosen to lead the secret organization of the Infinite. He is portrayed by Mark Wahlberg and is portrayed as a complex character struggling with his inner demons and his mission to save the world.
Bathurst: Bathurst is a mysterious figure that guides and mentors Evan on his mission, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor. He is a cryptic character but ultimately serves as Evan’s link to the secrets of the Infinite.
M. Roz: M. Roz is a new recruit of the Infinite, played by Sophie Cookson. She serves as Evan’s companion and confidante throughout the film, and her unshakeable faith in him serves as an empowering force throughout the plot.
Arthur: Portrayed by Jason Mantzoukas, Arthur is an artificial intelligence that serves as a helpful assistant to Evan and the other members of the Infinite.Arthur provides Evan with support and advice throughout his journey.
Agent Williamson: Toby Jones plays Agent Williamson, a former CIA analyst and current Tholdon operative. he serves as the primary antagonist of the movie and is a constant threat to the members of the Infinite.
Reception
Infinite received mostly negative reviews from critics, with consensus being that it was a “disappointing, formulaic sci-fi actioner that lacks originality and energy”. Critic Jen Chaney of Vulture wrote “the promise of a new sci-fi franchise suffocates beneath meandering scenes and lackluster set pieces that make it a chore to get through,” while The Hollywood Reporter’s John DeFore gave the movie a negative review, saying its “stalking, shooting, and chases lack excitement, and the film tends to sag in the middle as characters take too much time bantering.”
On the other hand, it has been praised for its visuals, with IndieWire’s Eric Kohn noting that “Antoine Fuqua gracefully navigates the multiple timelines of its deep mythology, offering a few memorable action sequences in the process.”
Analysis
Infinite is a prime example of a movie that fails to live up to its potential. Despite its all-star cast, unique setting, and uplifting soundtrack, its pandering plot and lack of originality sink the movie into mediocrity. The movie’s main theme of mental illness lacked exploration and complexity, instead appealing to stereotypes and cliches. Additionally, its confusing plotlines, underdeveloped characters, and chaotic action sequences further hampered its reception.
Ultimately, Infinite fails to provide a truly immersive experience. It promises an epic sci-fi/action movie but falls short in delivering. Its formulaic structure and cliché dialogue leave viewers feeling uninspired, and its lack of substance leaves much to be desired.
Infinite may have held promise for a unique, exciting science fiction thriller, but in the end it proved to be an underwhelming experience. While it has strong visuals and a talented cast, its lack of originality, complexity, and thrilling action sequences left viewers wanting more. The movie’s themes could have gone much deeper and its plotlines could have been more engaging. Nevertheless, we can still learn from films like this, and it is important to remember to look beyond the surface when assessing a movie’s worth.