Synopsis
The Circle is a 2017 American techno-thriller film directed by James Ponsoldt and written by Ponsoldt and Dave Eggers, based on Eggers’ 2013 novel of the same name. The film stars Emma Watson, Tom Hanks, John Boyega, Karen Gillan, Ellar Coltrane, Patton Oswalt, Glenne Headly, and Bill Paxton. In the film, Mae Holland (Watson) is a young woman who is hired to work for The Circle, a powerful internet company that promises to make the world a better place by connecting everyone and sharing all information. However, Mae soon begins to question the company’s motives and its impact on privacy and individual freedom.
Cast and Director
- Emma Watson as Mae Holland
- Tom Hanks as Eamon Bailey
- John Boyega as Tylor
- Karen Gillan as Annie
- Ellar Coltrane as Mercer
- Patton Oswalt as Raymond Peck
- Glenne Headly as Nancy Powell
- Bill Paxton as Dan Weaver
The film was directed by James Ponsoldt, who is known for his films The Spectacular Now and The End of the Tour. Ponsoldt also co-wrote the screenplay with Dave Eggers, who wrote the original novel.
Story Plot
Mae Holland is a young woman who is looking for a new job. She is offered a position at The Circle, a powerful internet company that promises to make the world a better place by connecting everyone and sharing all information. Mae is initially hesitant to take the job, but she is eventually persuaded by her friend Annie.
At The Circle, Mae is quickly immersed in the company’s culture of transparency. She is encouraged to share everything about her life online, including her thoughts, feelings, and activities. Mae is also given a SeeChange camera, which she can use to live-stream her life to the world.
At first, Mae is excited about her new job and the possibilities that it offers. However, she soon begins to question The Circle’s motives. She is concerned about the company’s lack of privacy and its potential to be used for surveillance and control. Mae also begins to worry about the impact that The Circle is having on her own life. She is becoming increasingly isolated from her friends and family, and she is losing her sense of self.
Mae eventually decides to speak out against The Circle. She gives a speech at the company’s annual shareholder meeting, in which she warns about the dangers of transparency and the importance of privacy. Mae’s speech is met with mixed reactions. Some people support her, while others believe that she is a traitor.
The Circle is a cautionary tale about the dangers of technology and the importance of privacy. The film raises important questions about the role of technology in our lives and the potential for it to be used for surveillance and control. The film also explores the tension between individual freedom and the desire for connection.
Critical Response
The Circle received mixed reviews from critics. Some critics praised the film’s performances, its suspenseful plot, and its thought-provoking themes. Other critics criticized the film’s slow pace, its underdeveloped characters, and its lack of originality.
Life Lessons
The Circle offers a number of life lessons, including:
- The importance of privacy: The film shows how the lack of privacy can lead to isolation, anxiety, and loss of self.
- The dangers of technology: The film shows how technology can be used for surveillance and control.
- The importance of critical thinking: The film encourages viewers to think critically about the role of technology in our lives and the potential for it to be used for harm.
- The importance of human connection: The film shows how technology can lead to isolation and disconnection.
Conclusion
The Circle is a thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the role of technology in our lives. The film is not without its flaws, but it is ultimately an entertaining and thought-provoking film that is worth watching.
