The feature film A.I / Sci-Fi Thriller titled Renner is directed and produced by Robert Rippberger. The script is written by Luke Medina and Martin Medina from a story by Luke Medina. The story by this filmmaker is interesting and it is filmed efficiently in a limited setting on one floor of what appears to be a high-rise apartment. Of note, there are no other people shown coming or going on the elevator, stairs, nor the hallway, as the focus is left on the main character, Renner (Frankie Muniz) and his neighbor in an apartment down the hall, Jamie (Violett Beane) who he has silently developed a crush on from behind his apartment door.
Renner relies on help from the A. I. he has designed named Salenus (voiced by Marcia Gay Hayden) to help him build his confidence to approach her and to be more outgoing in his life. When the opportunity presents itself in the hallway, they arrange to have an at home dinner after work. Renner is happy about the progress to spend time with her, but he is greatly disappointed when she brings a dinner guest, Chad, who she introduces as her brother temporarily staying with her.
Frankie Muniz is very impressive in this role of someone who is reclusive and has severe social anxieties. He is excellent in his portrayal of someone who has it together for his work, but in fact has been impacted by the treatment he experienced from his mother. As he tries to explain some of the things he endured, his performance of growing more and more agitated is very impressive. Later in the film when he learns of the reality of his neighbors and their intentions, Muniz shows the additional acting skills of someone who is coming completely unwound. All the while, Salenus is listening, watching and encouraging Renner to take charge of his situation. Afterall, he had invented her to be helpful.
This statement was provided in the press materials from the filmmaker: “Bringing this story to life required a lead who could not only embody the brilliance of Renner but also capture the emotional complexity of a man wrestling with forces far beyond his control. Frankie Muniz did just that – delivering a performance unlike anything audiences have ever seen from him. A.I. isn’t some distant possibility — it’s here, shaping our lives right now. Renner explores that reality and asks: What happens when the creation outpaces the creator? I hope this film will spark conversation, provoke thought, and remind us all that every technological leap comes with a cost.” – Robert Rippberger
Produced by Devin Keaton, Martin Medina, KT Kent, and Jay Burnley.
Executive produced by David Hicks, Scott McLaughlin, Anita Konka, Ali Baghdadi, Laura Wintead, Mark Fuell, Neuman Vong, Jay Slaughterbeck, Carther F. Jorgenson, Harambee K. Grey-Sun, Neil Amin, Eric Eppinger, and Greg Gertmenian.
Cinematography by Sean Emer. Edited by Gabriel Cullen. Music by Rony Barrak.
RT: 90 min | Not Yet Rated Language: English | U.S.
The film has a limited theatrical release across the U. S. as of Friday, February 7th and will expand to other cities soon. Visit the movie website for a list of theaters offering the film.
Source: A Slated production
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