Superintelligence

Carol Peters (Melissa McCarthy) is identified by a newly sentient artificial intelligence as "the most average person on Earth"—the perfect test subject to help the AI decide whether to save, enslave, or destroy humanity. Speaking in the voice of James Corden (because Carol happens to be a fan), the Superintelligence gives Carol three days to prove humanity's worthwhile showering her with millions of dollars, a Tesla, a penthouse apartment, and a makeover. The AI's primary strategy involves orchestrating a reunion between Carol and her ex-boyfriend George (Bobby Cannavale), believing that observing their rekindled romance will provide insight into human capacity for love and redemption. Meanwhile, Carol's friend Dennis (Brian Tyree Henry) alerts the government, leading to a global effort to neutralize the AI before it can execute its final judgment.

When the film shifts from a high-concept sci-fi thriller to a romantic comedy, it finds moments of success, particularly in the interactions between Carol and George, whose conversations reflect a genuine sweetness. Bobby Cannavale's performance as George adds warmth, creating chemistry despite a lack of strong script support. A clever moment occurs when the AI's voice changes from James Corden to Octavia Spencer, adding humor but highlighting a missed opportunity for further comedic potential. The idea of an AI assessing human value through romantic success is whimsically absurd, and the film excels when embracing this tone. Melissa McCarthy remains engaging, displaying a commitment to physical comedy and bringing heart to Carol's character. Aerial shots of Seattle enrich the film visually, though some establishing shots are repetitive. The film's setting in the Pacific Northwest also aligns well with its tech-centric narrative.

The casting of James Corden as the voice of the AI proves detrimental, with his delivery described as grating and lacking menace. The film misuses a talented ensemble cast, reducing strong performers like Brian Tyree Henry to minor roles and sidelining Jean Smart and Bobby Cannavale. It struggles with tonal inconsistency, shifting awkwardly from comedy to suspense and romance, which leads to jarring moments that undermine tension. The screenplay relies heavily on superficial pop-culture references, diminishing its humor and treating the audience with contempt. Melissa McCarthy's portrayal of Carol, intended as an everywoman, lacks specific traits that could engage viewers, making her character a bland presence in a CGI-heavy narrative. Additionally, product placements appear intrusive, breaking narrative flow. The film's attempts at physical comedy are poorly executed, leading to awkward and unfunny sequences. Ultimately, the resolution feels unearned, lacking a profound connection to the themes of human nature it attempts to address.

The cinematic equivalent of background noise is superintelligence, a movie that plays invisibly as you browse your phone and makes no impression at all. The film's blandness feels like a betrayal of McCarthy's abilities, even though it isn't as overtly objectionable as Tammy or Life of the Party. The movie shows that even gifted actors are unable to overcome content that essentially misinterprets their unique qualities.

The main irony is that real human behavior appears to be of little interest in a movie about artificial intelligence researching humanity. Instead of using dialogue, characters use exposition and punchlines to communicate. Relationships don't form naturally; they do so because the plot demands it. The AI watches Carol, but the filmmakers never do; they're happy to let her go through cliched routines without discovering what makes her special.

Only for McCarthy completists, and even then, with low hopes. The rest of us would be better off going back to her work with Paul Feig or her dramatic pieces, where her skills are given the credit, they merit.

Staff:

Directed by: Ben Falcone

Written by: Steve Mallory

Produced by: Ben Falcone, Melissa McCarthy, and Rob Cowan

Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Bobby Cannavale, Brian Tyree Henry, and James Corden.

Cinematography: Barry Peterson

Edited by: Tia Nolan

Music by: Fil Eisler

Production companies: Warner Max, New Line Cinema, Bron Creative, and On the Day Productions

Distributed by: Warner Bros. Pictures

Release date: November 26, 2020

Running time: 106 minutes