A new sci-fi adventure is heading to Netflix this March. “The Electric State,” starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, will premiere on March 14, 2025. This highly anticipated film from directors Anthony and Joe Russo takes viewers to a retro-futuristic past where an orphaned teenager embarks on a journey across the American West.
The sneak peek reveals Brown in the lead role as Michelle, a character searching for something important in this unique setting. Chris Pratt joins the impressive cast, which also features voice performances from Anthony Mackie and Alan Tudyk. The Russo Brothers bring their blockbuster expertise to this project following their success with Marvel films.
Set in an alternate timeline with advanced technology, the film combines nostalgic elements with futuristic concepts. The brief glimpses shown in the preview highlight the distinct visual style and atmospheric world-building that appears to be a signature element of the production. Fans of Brown’s work in “Stranger Things” will likely appreciate seeing her take on another science fiction role.
https://www.netflix.com/title/81601562
Release Date: When and Where to Watch
The Electric State is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix this Friday, March 14, 2025. Subscribers around the world can stream the movie starting at 12:00 a.m. PT / 3:00 a.m. ET. If you’re a fan of science fiction, retro-futuristic settings, or simply love seeing Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt on screen, you won’t want to miss this release.
Netflix has been teasing this film for months, and the buzz is finally culminating in its highly anticipated debut. The timing couldn’t be better for those looking to kick back and enjoy an epic adventure over the weekend.
What Is The Electric State About?
Set in an alternate, retro-futuristic version of 1990s America, The Electric State follows the story of Michelle (played by Millie Bobby Brown), a teenage girl searching for her missing brother. After the mysterious disappearance, Michelle embarks on a journey across a strange and haunting landscape populated by decaying technology, sentient robots, and a crumbling society on the brink of collapse.
With her quirky but lovable robot companion and a drifter named Keats (Chris Pratt), Michelle navigates this eerie world, uncovering dark secrets and corporate conspiracies along the way. The deeper she ventures, the more she realizes that the fate of humanity might rest on what she discovers.
The film is based on the acclaimed illustrated novel by Simon Stålenhag, whose work previously inspired Tales from the Loop. His signature blend of nostalgia and speculative technology forms the backbone of the film’s unique aesthetic.
The Star-Studded Cast & Characters
Netflix has assembled a powerhouse cast for The Electric State, bringing together some of Hollywood’s biggest names:
- Millie Bobby Brown as Michelle, the determined protagonist on a quest to reunite her family.
- Chris Pratt as Keats, a mysterious drifter who becomes Michelle’s ally and protector.
- Ke Huy Quan lends his voice to Michelle’s robot companion, adding both heart and humor to the journey.
- Stanley Tucci, Jason Alexander, Woody Harrelson, Anthony Mackie, Brian Cox, Jenny Slate, and Giancarlo Esposito round out the impressive supporting cast, each bringing depth and intrigue to this expansive world.
Expect standout performances, especially from Millie Bobby Brown, who continues to prove she can carry big-budget blockbusters with emotional intensity and charm.
The Russo Brothers Return to Sci-Fi
Directors Anthony and Joe Russo are no strangers to massive cinematic universes. Known for helming Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, the Russo Brothers have shifted gears to bring The Electric State to life. They’ve described the film as a personal project that blends emotional storytelling with visual spectacle.
The duo is working alongside Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, their frequent screenwriting collaborators. This reunion promises tight storytelling, character-driven drama, and action sequences that pack an emotional punch.
What Makes The Electric State Stand Out?
Unlike your typical dystopian sci-fi film, The Electric State stands out for its hauntingly beautiful visuals and deeply human story. The retro-futuristic 1990s setting evokes nostalgia while presenting a world that feels both familiar and eerily alien.
The film explores themes of connection, loss, and hope, all through the lens of a young girl’s determination to find her brother in a world where technology has spiraled out of control. Simon Stålenhag’s artistic vision, combined with the Russo Brothers’ cinematic flair, results in a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience.
Early Reactions and Reviews
Critics who’ve had early access to The Electric State have offered mixed feedback. Some praise the film’s bold visuals and emotional core, while others note it leans heavily on familiar sci-fi tropes.
The Times called it “a soulless sci-fi dud,” citing a lack of emotional depth despite its striking imagery. Meanwhile, The Guardian described it as “soulless digital content,” critiquing the reliance on clichés.
That said, audiences may find something different. Fans of Millie Bobby Brown and the Russo Brothers are likely to appreciate the performances and world-building, and for many viewers, the stunning visuals alone will be worth the watch.
Final Thoughts: Should You Watch The Electric State?
If you’re into sci-fi adventures with a personal, emotional core, The Electric State deserves a spot on your weekend watchlist. With its unique setting, all-star cast, and big-name directors, it’s one of Netflix’s most ambitious releases of the year.
Whether you’re drawn in by the haunting landscapes or the promise of a heartfelt story about family, The Electric State offers plenty to be curious about. Grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and get ready to explore a strange, beautiful, and dangerous world this Friday.
Key Takeaways
- “The Electric State” premieres March 14, 2025 on Netflix, featuring Millie Bobby Brown as an orphaned teenager on a journey through a retro-futuristic American West.
- Directors Anthony and Joe Russo have assembled a star-studded cast including Chris Pratt and voice talents Anthony Mackie and Alan Tudyk.
- The film’s unique visual style combines nostalgic elements with futuristic technology in what appears to be an ambitious sci-fi adventure.
About the Film
“The Electric State” brings together an all-star cast and acclaimed directors in a visually stunning retro-futuristic adventure set in an alternative 1990s America. This sci-fi blockbuster combines cutting-edge visual effects with a compelling narrative about humanity’s relationship with technology.
Synopsis
“The Electric State” follows Michelle, an orphaned teenager played by Millie Bobby Brown, who embarks on a dangerous journey across an alternative version of 1990s America. She’s searching for her long-lost brother in a dystopian landscape recovering from a failed robot uprising.
During her quest, Michelle is accompanied by a mysterious toy robot and a roguish smuggler, portrayed by Chris Pratt. The trio traverses the American West, a dangerous frontier where humans rarely venture and sentient robots dominate.
The setting presents a unique retro-futuristic world where advanced technology exists alongside 90s aesthetics. This creates a visually distinct backdrop for the story about connection, survival, and the complex relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.
Origin and Development
“The Electric State” is based on the acclaimed graphic novel of the same name by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag. His distinctive artwork combines nostalgic Americana with sci-fi elements, creating a haunting vision of an alternative past.
Netflix acquired the film rights after significant interest from multiple studios. The project gained momentum when the Russo Brothers signed on to direct following their success with Marvel films like “Avengers: Endgame.”
The screenplay adaptation was crafted by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, who previously collaborated with the Russos on several Marvel projects. This reunion of creative talents raised expectations for the film.
Production faced initial delays due to industry disruptions, but Netflix maintained commitment to the project. The streaming giant positioned the film as a tentpole release for their 2025 slate of original content.
Adaptation and Vision
The Russo Brothers have described their adaptation as faithful to Stålenhag’s original vision while expanding the narrative for a feature-length format. They were drawn to the story’s unique blend of nostalgia and futurism.
The filmmakers utilized cutting-edge visual effects to bring the graphic novel’s distinctive aesthetic to life. Special attention was paid to creating realistic robot designs that feel both retro and advanced.
The production team built elaborate practical sets to complement the visual effects. This approach grounds the fantastic elements in a tangible reality that enhances the film’s immersive quality.
Anthony and Joe Russo worked closely with Stålenhag during development to ensure the film captured the graphic novel’s atmospheric tone. While expanding certain story elements, they maintained the core themes exploring technology’s impact on society and personal connection in an increasingly mechanized world.
The Cast and Characters
The Electric State boasts an impressive ensemble featuring acclaimed actors in both leading and supporting roles. The film’s character dynamics create a rich tapestry of relationships as humans and robots navigate a retro-futuristic 1990s American landscape.
Lead Actors
Millie Bobby Brown stars as Michelle, an orphaned teenager on a cross-country journey to find her missing brother. Brown brings her trademark emotional depth to this character who must navigate a strange world filled with sentient robots.
Chris Pratt plays Keats, a roguish smuggler who joins Michelle on her perilous adventure. Pratt’s natural charisma shines through as he portrays this complex character who develops an unlikely bond with Michelle.
The chemistry between Brown and Pratt forms the emotional core of the film. Their characters’ relationship evolves from reluctant traveling companions to trusted allies facing the dangers of their dystopian reality together.
Supporting Cast
Ke Huy Quan appears as Dr. Amherst, bringing his Oscar-winning talent to this mysterious role. Stanley Tucci portrays Ethan Skate, though details about his character remain limited.
The film features an impressive lineup of veteran actors:
- Woody Harrelson in an undisclosed role
- Jason Alexander adding his comedic talents
- Brian Cox lending his commanding presence
- Jenny Slate bringing her unique voice
Anthony Mackie and Giancarlo Esposito round out the cast with their proven acting abilities. Woody Norman and Alan Tudyk also appear in currently unspecified roles.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between humans and sentient robots drives much of the film’s drama. Michelle’s mysterious toy robot companion becomes central to her journey, creating an unusual friendship that challenges perceptions about consciousness and connection.
The dynamic between Michelle and Keats evolves throughout their trek across the American West. Their initial distrust gradually transforms as they face shared dangers and discover common ground.
The supporting characters orbit around this central pairing, each bringing their own agendas and motivations. Some aim to help Michelle reach her destination while others present obstacles to overcome.
Voice actors play crucial roles bringing the various robot characters to life. These mechanical beings display surprising emotional depth, raising questions about the nature of humanity in this alternate version of the 1990s.
Production Details
The Electric State combines the creative vision of the Russo Brothers with cutting-edge special effects to bring Simon Stålenhag’s retro-futuristic world to life. The film’s production emphasizes practical effects alongside CGI to create a unique visual aesthetic that captures the altered 1990s timeline.
Directors’ Perspective
The Russo Brothers, Joe and Anthony, approached The Electric State as an opportunity to explore new storytelling territory after their success with Marvel films. They were particularly drawn to Stålenhag’s distinctive visual style and the narrative’s blend of nostalgia and futuristic elements.
“We wanted to create something that felt both familiar and strange,” Joe Russo explained in a recent interview. “The alternate 1990s setting gives us a playground to explore themes of technology and humanity.”
The directors worked closely with the production team to establish a visual language for the film that honors the source material while bringing their own cinematic sensibilities to the project. Their experience with large-scale productions proved valuable in managing the complex blend of practical and digital effects.
Filming and Set Design
Filming for The Electric State took place across several locations in the American Southwest, creating the perfect backdrop for Michelle’s journey through a transformed United States. The production design team constructed elaborate sets to bring the retro-futuristic world to life.
The team built several practical robot designs and retrofitted existing locations to match the alternate timeline where robot technology advanced differently than in our reality. Production designer Stefan Dechant created detailed environments that blend 1990s aesthetics with futuristic technology.
The “exclusion zone” mentioned in the plot was one of the most challenging sets to design. It required a distinct visual identity that communicated danger while maintaining the film’s unique aesthetic.
Cinematographer Matthew Libatique used specific lighting techniques to distinguish between the “normal” world and areas heavily influenced by robotic technology.
Special Effects and Animatronics
The Electric State balances CGI with practical effects to create a tactile, believable world. The production team built several full-scale animatronic robot characters that could interact directly with the actors on set.
Legacy Effects, known for their work on numerous sci-fi films, designed and built the animatronic allies that accompany Michelle on her journey. These physical props provided real reference points for actors Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt.
“Having something tangible to interact with makes a huge difference for performers,” explained special effects supervisor Dan Sudick. “The animatronics bring an authenticity that pure CGI can’t match.”
For more complex robot sequences, the team used a combination of motion capture and digital effects. Visual effects supervisor Russell Earl worked closely with the Russo Brothers to ensure that digital elements maintained the distinctive style established in Stålenhag’s artwork.
Release and Reception
The Electric State is set to become one of Netflix’s major releases of 2025, bringing the Russo brothers’ adaptation of Simon Stålenhag’s graphic novel to life with a star-studded cast and retro-futuristic visuals.
Premiere Date
The Electric State will premiere exclusively on Netflix on March 14, 2025. This release date positions the film strategically in Netflix’s 2025 content slate, avoiding major holiday competition while still capitalizing on the spring viewing season.
The March release provides the Russo brothers with a prime opportunity to establish the film as an early contender for streaming success in 2025. Netflix typically reserves these mid-March slots for content they believe has significant audience appeal and potential staying power.
For viewers, the worldwide streaming release means simultaneous access across all Netflix-supported regions without the staggered international rollout often associated with theatrical releases.
Marketing and Trailers
Netflix has begun its marketing campaign with a sneak peek clip that offers viewers their first glimpse of Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt in action. The preview highlights the film’s distinctive retro-futuristic 1990s aesthetic and introduces the central premise.
The clip features Brown as Michelle, an orphaned teenager searching for her long-lost brother, accompanied by Pratt’s character described as a “roguish smuggler.” Their journey takes place in an alternative 1990s dystopian world recovering from a failed robot uprising.
Netflix’s marketing emphasizes the film’s unique setting described as “where no robot would dare leave and no human would dare go… until now.” The campaign also highlights the voice talent of Anthony Mackie and Alan Tudyk, adding depth to the promotional materials.
Additional trailers and promotional content are expected in the months leading up to the March 14 release, likely showcasing more of the film’s world-building and action sequences.
Critical Expectations
Industry experts anticipate The Electric State will receive significant critical attention due to several key factors:
Director Pedigree: The Russo brothers bring their proven track record from successful blockbusters like Avengers: Endgame and The Gray Man to this project.
Source Material: The adaptation of Simon Stålenhag’s acclaimed graphic novel provides rich visual and narrative foundations that critics often appreciate.
Cast Appeal: The combination of Millie Bobby Brown’s dramatic range and Chris Pratt’s action credentials creates intriguing performance expectations.
Critics will likely focus on how successfully the film translates the graphic novel’s distinctive visual style to the screen and whether it balances spectacle with emotional storytelling. The alternative 1990s setting offers a unique canvas that differentiates it from typical sci-fi fare.
Early industry buzz suggests the film could become one of Netflix’s most critically discussed releases of 2025.
Cultural Impact
The Electric State has made significant waves in popular culture, blending nostalgic 1990s aesthetics with futuristic elements that resonate with multiple generations of viewers.
Influence on Science Fiction
The Electric State represents a fresh take on science fiction storytelling, combining retro-futuristic visuals with contemporary narrative techniques. The Russo Brothers’ distinctive directorial approach brings a cinematic quality that elevates streaming content to theatrical standards.
The film’s portrayal of AI and robotics reflects current anxieties about technology while wrapping them in an accessible adventure format. This approach has influenced how newer science fiction projects address complex technological themes.
Critics have noted that the film’s visual language draws from both classic sci-fi and modern blockbusters, creating a bridge between different eras of the genre. The distinctive design of the robots, particularly the character Herman, has already inspired fan art and cosplay.
The movie’s exploration of human-machine relationships offers thoughtful commentary without sacrificing entertainment value. This balance has helped broaden the appeal of harder science fiction concepts to mainstream audiences.
Resonance with the 1990s
Set in an alternative version of the 1990s, The Electric State taps into powerful nostalgia for millennials who grew up during this period. The film’s careful recreation of the era’s technology, fashion, and music creates an immersive time capsule.
The film’s analog tech aesthetic contrasts sharply with our digital present, offering viewers a reflective comparison between past visions of the future and our current reality. Vintage video games, cassette tapes, and early computers feature prominently in the production design.
Social media buzz around the film has centered on its authentic portrayal of 90s culture. Many viewers appreciate how the movie avoids shallow nostalgia tropes while still celebrating the distinctive style of the decade.
The retro-futuristic setting also appeals to Gen Z viewers discovering 90s aesthetics for the first time. This cross-generational appeal has sparked renewed interest in other media from the era, creating a cultural feedback loop.
Connecting With Audiences
“The Electric State” has sparked widespread interest through its unique blend of retro-futuristic aesthetics and emotional storytelling. The film connects with viewers through relatable themes and has built communities across various platforms.
Key Themes
The film explores profound connections between humanity and technology in an alternate 1990s setting. Michelle, the orphaned teenager played by Millie Bobby Brown, embarks on a journey to find her missing brother that resonates with universal themes of loss and hope.
The story taps into nostalgia while presenting a cautionary tale about technological dependence. This balance gives the film cross-generational appeal, connecting with both younger viewers who know Brown from “Stranger Things” and older audiences familiar with retro-tech aesthetics.
Chris Pratt’s character adds another dimension to the film’s exploration of human connection in a world where technology has altered social relationships. His performance builds on his popularity from franchises like “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Jurassic World.”
Fan Base and Communities
The film has already inspired vibrant online communities months before its release. Fan art depicting the retro-futuristic robots has proliferated across social media platforms.
Reddit threads analyze every frame of the sneak peek, with fans creating elaborate theories about the plot. The Russo Brothers’ involvement has attracted Marvel fans, creating crossover interest from the “Avengers” fandom.
Netflix has strategically leveraged Millie Bobby Brown’s extensive social media presence to build anticipation. Her 62 million Instagram followers provide a ready-made audience eager for content.
Online watch parties are being organized for the March 14 premiere, with fans planning to share their reactions in real-time. Discord servers dedicated to the film have grown rapidly, creating spaces for discussion about the movie’s themes and visuals.
Behind the Scenes
The creation of “The Electric State” involved extensive collaboration between the Russo Brothers and their trusted screenwriters, alongside challenges in adapting the source material and filming complex scenes with both human actors and CGI robot characters.
Screenwriting and Adaptation
The adaptation process began when the Russo Brothers acquired rights to Simon Stålenhag’s illustrated novel. Screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, who previously collaborated with the Russos on Marvel projects, worked to transform the visual storytelling of the book into a cohesive narrative.
“We needed to expand certain elements while staying true to the emotional core,” McFeely explained in a February 2025 interview.
The writing team faced challenges translating Stålenhag’s atmospheric imagery into dialogue and action. They added depth to Brown’s character while developing the dystopian alternative 1990s setting.
Markus noted, “The book gives you this incredible world, but we had to create character journeys that would pull viewers through it.”
Casting Insights
Millie Bobby Brown was the first actor attached to the project, with the Russos citing her ability to convey emotional depth while maintaining screen presence as crucial for the protagonist role.
Chris Pratt joined later as Michelle’s companion, bringing what Joe Russo called “essential warmth and humor to balance the darker elements.”
The voice cast includes Anthony Mackie and Alan Tudyk as robot characters, while Stanley Tucci and Giancarlo Esposito round out the supporting cast in key roles.
“Finding actors who could inhabit this unique world was critical,” casting director Sarah Finn revealed. “Everyone needed to make the retro-futuristic setting feel authentic.”
Production Challenges
Filming took place across various locations transformed to represent the alternative 1990s landscape. Anthony Russo described the production as “technically demanding but creatively fulfilling.”
Weather complications during outdoor shooting in New Mexico caused several delays. The team also faced significant hurdles integrating practical effects with CGI elements for the robot characters.
“We built as many practical robot components as possible,” explained production designer Stefan Dechant. “But the failed robot uprising sequences required extensive visual effects work.”
The Russo Brothers implemented innovative motion capture techniques for robot movements, working closely with ILM’s visual effects team. They used specialized equipment to capture performances on location rather than on traditional soundstages.
According to Joe Russo, “The desert environments created perfect backdrops for the story but presented logistical challenges for our crew and technology.”
Frequently Asked Questions
As the premiere of “The Electric State” approaches, viewers have many questions about this highly anticipated film. Here are answers to some common inquiries about the cast, genre, direction, and more.
Who are the main cast members in ‘The Electric State’?
Millie Bobby Brown leads the cast as Michelle, a young woman traveling across the American West in search of something important. Her character is accompanied by a mysterious toy robot on this journey.
Chris Pratt co-stars as a roguish smuggler who joins Michelle on her adventure. Their dynamic forms a central part of the story’s progression.
The film also features an impressive supporting cast including Ke Huy Quan, Jason Alexander, Woody Harrelson, and Giancarlo Esposito. Stanley Tucci and Brian Cox add their talents to this star-studded lineup.
Several actors provide voice performances for the film’s robotic characters, including Anthony Mackie and Alan Tudyk. Jenny Slate also joins the cast in a role that complements the retro-futuristic setting.
What genre does ‘The Electric State’ fall under?
“The Electric State” is primarily a science fiction adventure film set in an alternative retro-futuristic version of the 1990s. The story blends elements of post-apocalyptic fiction with coming-of-age themes.
The film is based on Simon Stålenhag’s graphic novel of the same name, which is known for its distinctive art style that merges nostalgic Americana with futuristic technology. This adaptation maintains the visual aesthetic while expanding the narrative for screen.
Its setting in an alternative past with advanced technology places it firmly in the retrofuturism subgenre. The journey across the American West also gives it elements of a road movie with science fiction overtones.
Who directed ‘The Electric State’ and what are their previous works?
“The Electric State” is directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, commonly known as the Russo Brothers. They’ve established themselves as skilled directors of large-scale action and character-driven narratives.
The Russos previously directed several Marvel films including “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Captain America: Civil War,” and both “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame.” Their work on these films demonstrated their ability to handle complex storytelling with multiple characters.
Outside the Marvel universe, they directed the action thriller “The Gray Man” for Netflix. This project shows their continued collaboration with streaming platforms on high-budget productions.
How long is the movie ‘The Electric State’?
The exact runtime for “The Electric State” has not been officially confirmed in the provided search results. Most major studio films typically run between 90 and 150 minutes.
Given the Russo Brothers’ previous works and the expansive nature of the source material, viewers might expect a film that allows enough time to develop both the characters and the unique world. Their Marvel films often exceeded two hours to properly address their complex narratives.
Netflix original films tend to vary widely in length, so subscribers should check the platform closer to the March 14 release date for specific runtime information.
Are there any behind-the-scenes insights available for ‘The Electric State’ production?
Production details for “The Electric State” have been relatively limited in official releases. The film represents a significant adaptation challenge, translating Stålenhag’s distinctive visual style to live action.
The script was written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, who previously collaborated with the Russo Brothers on their Marvel films. This reunites a creative team with proven success in adapting complex material.
The recently released sneak peek footage shows an encounter with robots that “doesn’t go well” for the characters. This suggests the film will feature tense action sequences alongside its journey narrative.
Will ‘The Electric State’ be available for streaming after its Netflix premiere?
“The Electric State” is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix on March 14, 2025. As a Netflix original film, it will remain available on the platform indefinitely after its release.
Unlike theatrical releases that might have limited streaming windows, Netflix typically keeps its original content permanently accessible to subscribers. This ensures viewers can watch the film at their convenience after the premiere date.
International availability may vary by region due to licensing agreements. However, Netflix original productions are usually released globally across all markets where the service operates.
