Archive

In a near future, a reclusive researcher and engineer is pursuing a human like artificial intelligence. His latest prototype is almost ready, a creation designed to blur the line between machine and person. But the project sits behind closed doors, guarded by secrecy and a personal motive that goes beyond science. George Almore is driven by a longing that cannot be spoken aloud, a hope to reconnect with his dead wife through a living, thinking successor. The work blends intimate grief with cutting edge technology, and the team around him must balance breakthroughs with the ethical fog that shadows every experiment. The atmosphere is tense, lucid, and quietly philosophical. Its look and sound draw you into a softly claustrophobic world.

Directed by Gavin Rothery, Archive arrived in 2020 as his feature debut. The screenplay springs from Rothery's original concept, and Theo James stars as George with Stacy Martin and Rhona Mitra in key roles. The ensemble also features Lia Williams.

The film grossed about 243,279 dollars worldwide, reflecting a limited release and a niche audience for cerebral science fiction. It found particular traction with genre fans and festival circuits worldwide rather than a broad commercial run across international festival circuits.

Its restrained mood and themes of memory, grief, and the ethics of synthetic life sparked thoughtful discussions among critics and dedicated sci fi audiences. While not a mainstream blockbuster, Archive has earned a place in conversations about near future AI cinema today. For the future of intelligent machines in culture.

Critics praised the film for its clear focus on character and atmosphere, with Theo James delivering a controlled, poignant performance. The story raises questions about what makes a person human when memories can be replicated and longing drives invention that linger after the credits and invite viewers to reflect deeply.