Self/less

An ultra rich dying magnate tries to outpace death by moving his consciousness into a healthy young body. The procedure grants him another shot at life and a chance to reclaim influence, youth, and control. Yet the switch creates dissonance between memory and flesh, and doubts about who he really is surface. Behind the operation stands a covert network guarding the technology and its origins, and its agents will go to great lengths to keep their secrets hidden. As the man settles into his altered existence, familiar ambitions collide with the new limitations of his form, and the pressure to maintain secrecy threatens to unravel everything he thought he wanted. As he probes the new life, he forms uneasy bonds with those around him, including a trusted confidant and a physician who challenge his choices.

Directed by Tarsem Singh, Self/less takes an original concept developed by Àlex Pastor and David Pastor with Evan Trent, blending sleek action with a mind bending premise that fits Singh's visual sensibilities. The movie arrived in 2015 as a polished sci fi thriller. The cast includes Ryan Reynolds in the body of a younger man and Ben Kingsley as Damian, with Natalie Martinez, Matthew Goode, and Michelle Dockery rounding out the ensemble, delivering energetic performances.

The film grossed about 31.8 million worldwide against a 26 million budget, a modest return by studio standards but enough to signal steady support in several territories. Audiences cited Reynolds and Kingsley's performances and the film's glossy visuals as highlights.

Critics offered mixed takes on Self/less, noting Reynolds and Kingsley bring energy to the premise while some found the plotting disjointed and the pacing uneven. The tense setup and visuals are praised, though some felt the story didn't fully cohere. The film raises questions about identity and the price of living longer, wrapped in stylish action.

Self/less isn't a defining cultural milestone, but it sits among genre entries that probe identity and memory in future tech. Its mind transfer premise and Tarsem Singh's vivid visuals give it a distinct look, though it remains a niche title for many viewers.