RATING★ 6.2
WORTH IT? MAYBE
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Expert Review & Ratings

See our full critical analysis and audience score for DNA.

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WORTH WATCHING: MIXED
Editorial Verified

Is DNA Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2016)

"DNA" is a futuristic tale of a company with cutting edge technology able to bring back loved ones who’ve passed away. Eager clients commission the “Carbons” who are then cloned from available DNA samples. The bereaved can now get the closure they’ve been searching for or feel their lover’s touch one last time. The clones are perfect in every way and business is booming. CEO Malcolm Moore (Brad Armstrong) and V.P. Lidia Kline (jessica drake) are elated, but things take a turn for the bizarre when one of the carbons, Kayla (Asa Akira) becomes aware of her former life and realizes Miles Dunn (Small Hands) the man who had her brought back to life is actually her killer. From there it’s a game of cat and mouse with Kayla on the run and Miles quickly closing in.

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✨ The Quick Verdict

ONE-TIME WATCH

If you are a fan of Thriller, Science Fiction cinema, then DNA offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 2016 landscape.

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👥 Target Audience

Fans of Thriller films
Fans of Science Fiction films

📔 Detailed Analysis

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

DNA, a standout production of 2016, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Thriller, Science Fiction landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into "DNA" is a futuristic tale of a company with cutting edge technology able to bring back loved ones who’ve passed away. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Thriller, Science Fiction are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: ""DNA" is a futuristic tale of a company with cutting edge technology able to bring back loved ones who’ve passed away. Eager clients commission the “Carbons” who are then cloned from available DNA samples. The bereaved can now get the closure they’ve been searching for or feel their lover’s touch one last time. The clones are perfect in every way and business is booming. CEO Malcolm Moore (Brad Armstrong) and V.P. Lidia Kline (jessica drake) are elated, but things take a turn for the bizarre when one of the carbons, Kayla (Asa Akira) becomes aware of her former life and realizes Miles Dunn (Small Hands) the man who had her brought back to life is actually her killer. From there it’s a game of cat and mouse with Kayla on the run and Miles quickly closing in."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Jessica Drake ensure that the emotional beats of DNA always land with sufficient weight. Jessica Drake provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Brad Armstrong is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 189 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is DNA truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Thriller, Science Fiction, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.2/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, DNA explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2016 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Brad Armstrong respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, DNA serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Jessica Drake or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, DNA is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.

Official movieMx Verdict: RECOMMENDED - QUALITY CINEMA

⏳ Time Investment

189MIN

At approximately 3.2 hours, the film requires a significant time commitment.

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