Netflix has released the highly anticipated official trailer for “The Electric State,” the upcoming retro-futuristic sci-fi adventure film from acclaimed directors Anthony and Joe Russo. Starring Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, and an ensemble cast of A-list talent, the film is poised to be one of the streaming giant’s original movies for 14th March 2025.
A Star-Studded Cast Brings Simon Stålenhag’s Vision to Life
Based on the 2018 illustrated novel by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag, “The Electric State” features an impressive lineup of Hollywood stars:
- Millie Bobby Brown as Michelle, an orphaned teenager searching for her missing brother
- Chris Pratt as Keats, a smuggler Michelle meets on her journey
- Ke Huy Quan as Dr. Amherst, a key figure in the story
- Stanley Tucci as Ethan Skate, a mysterious character
- Giancarlo Esposito as Colonel Marshall Bradbury, a military leader
- Woody Norman as Michelle’s missing brother
The film also showcases the voice talents of Anthony Mackie, Woody Harrelson, Brian Cox, Jenny Slate, and Alan Tudyk as various robot characters.
Alternate 90s Setting Blends Nostalgia and Futurism
“The Electric State” takes place in an alternate version of 1990s America, where a civil war between humans and robots has left society fractured. The film’s distinctive visual style blends retro 90s aesthetics with futuristic technology, featuring cartoony robots and oversized VR headsets.
Production designer Mark Scruton and VFX supervisor Swen Gillberg worked closely with the Russo brothers to bring Stålenhag’s unique retrofuturistic imagery to life. Referencing the artist’s work directly, they created intricate sets and CGI characters that capture the comic book-like feel of the original illustrations.
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For their latest directorial effort, the Russo brothers partnered once again with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, who penned the duo’s Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbusters, such as “Avengers: Endgame” and “Avengers: Infinity War.”
Composer Henry Jackman, another frequent Russo collaborator, provides the film’s score. His blend of electronic and orchestral elements promises to enhance the movie’s retro-futuristic atmosphere.
The trailer showcases Michelle’s perilous quest across the robot-ravaged American heartland. Accompanied by a mysterious robot named Cosmo, she ventures deep into the “Exclusion Zone,” a walled-off desert area inhabited solely by exiled machines.
As Michelle searches for her presumed dead brother, she uncovers dark secrets about his disappearance and the true nature of the human-robot conflict. Thrilling action sequences tease intense battles against towering mech suits and deadly war machines.
Building Buzz for Netflix’s 2025 Tentpole
With its high-profile creative team and captivating premise, “The Electric State” is well-positioned to be a major draw for Netflix subscribers. The streaming service is betting big on the film, having acquired distribution rights for a reported $320 million.
Industry analysts predict the movie could help drive subscriber growth and engagement, much like previous Netflix originals such as “The Gray Man” and “Red Notice.” The March 14, 2025 release date also positions the film as a strong awards season contender.
“The Electric State” will serve as the Russo brothers’ final directorial project before returning to the Marvel fold with “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars.” Millie Bobby Brown is simultaneously wrapping up her iconic role as Eleven in the final season of “Stranger Things,” adding to the film’s high anticipation.
As buzz builds for this ambitious sci-fi saga, “The Electric State” is shaping into one of Netflix’s most promising original films of 2025. With its genre-bending premise, top-tier talent, and cutting-edge visuals, the movie aims to captivate audiences and cement the streamer’s status as a top destination for premium content.
