Warning

Warning (2021) – Ambitious Sci-Fi with a Fragmented Core

Warning, a 2021 science fiction thriller directed by Agata Alexander, is an anthology-style film set in a dystopian near-future. It explores the human condition through the lens of advanced technology, spirituality, and isolation. As a mysterious global event disrupts Earth's electronics, the movie threads together a series of loosely connected stories, each unfolding during this crisis.

The film begins with an astronaut, drifting helplessly in space after a satellite malfunction. Alone, and unable to re-establish contact with Earth, his story becomes a symbolic framework for the rest of the film—representing detachment, helplessness, and humanity’s fragile dependence on machines. Back on Earth, a range of characters grapple with increasingly surreal experiences, each underpinned by futuristic tech that no longer offers comfort or control.

A grieving woman loses access to her AI-powered prayer companion, which triggers a spiritual crisis. A body-swapping service allows a rich man to temporarily inhabit the body of a younger woman, leading to dark ethical implications. Meanwhile, a woman discovers her boyfriend is being stalked through virtual reality, and another story focuses on a family of immortals attempting to live normally, despite the social decay around them.

These vignettes explore a variety of themes—technological addiction, class inequality, identity, consumerism, and the erosion of human intimacy. The stories share a common thread: each character, in their own way, is confronting existential despair in a world where artificial intelligence and synthetic reality have replaced genuine human connection.

Visually, Warning is sleek and atmospheric. The cinematography employs soft lighting, muted colors, and clinical set designs to create an eerie, sterile future. The visual language evokes feelings of detachment, with wide, empty frames and disquieting stillness. Despite a modest budget, the film creates a believable sci-fi setting that feels simultaneously futuristic and decayed.

The cast is impressive, including performances by Thomas Jane, Alice Eve, Alex Pettyfer, Rupert Everett, Annabelle Wallis, and Kylie Bunbury. However, due to the anthology format, most actors only appear briefly, and their characters are not given time to fully develop. While individual scenes carry intrigue, the film often feels disjointed, with rapid shifts in tone and story that undermine emotional investment.

Critics have noted that Warning draws clear influence from shows like Black Mirror, but lacks the narrative sharpness and emotional depth that made those stories resonate. Some praised the film's ambition and philosophical questions, while others criticized it for being shallow, undercooked, or too fragmented to leave a lasting impact.

Where the film succeeds is in concept: it dares to question humanity’s increasing reliance on machines and the spiritual void that can result from synthetic living. Its ambition is clear, and moments of dark humor or haunting imagery shine. However, as a whole, Warning struggles to deliver a cohesive or satisfying experience.

In conclusion, Warning (2021) is a bold attempt at a speculative sci-fi tapestry, rich with provocative ideas but weakened by a scattered structure and thin character arcs. It will likely appeal to fans of experimental or contemplative sci-fi, but may frustrate those seeking strong storytelling or emotional payoff.