The Current War

The Current War aims to capture the tense rivalry between Edison and Westinghouse, but it often stumbles under the weight of its own ambition. While it has moments of brilliance, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to dive deeper into this electrifying battle.

Rivalry on the Grid

Set in the late 19th century, The Current War chronicles the fierce competition between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse as they vie to create the most efficient electrical system for America. The film portrays Edison (Benedict Cumberbatch) as a relentless innovator, while Westinghouse (Michael Shannon) emerges as a visionary willing to embrace alternative technology. Nikola Tesla (Nicholas Hoult) adds a layer of complexity as both men seek to recruit him for their respective causes. Through the perspectives of these historical figures, the film explores the struggle for dominance in the burgeoning electrical industry, ultimately shaping the future of energy consumption.

A Cast That Almost Clicks

The acting in The Current War is solid, particularly from Cumberbatch and Shannon, who adequately convey the contrasting personalities of Edison and Westinghouse. Cumberbatch's portrayal of Edison is intense and driven, while Shannon presents Westinghouse as a more sympathetic and pragmatic counterpart. However, despite the strong leads, some characters like Tesla feel underutilized and lack depth, which is disappointing given the rich history. Nicholas Hoult delivers a commendable performance, but he is often overshadowed by the more prominent figures. The supporting cast, including Katherine Waterston and Tom Holland, doesn't get enough screen time to leave a lasting impact, which is a shame considering their talents.

Stylish but Uneven Presentation

Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, The Current War employs a visually striking style with sharp editing and a moody color palette that reflects the rivalry's intensity. However, the pacing is uneven, especially in the film's second act, where it meanders a bit too much, diluting the tension built earlier. The cinematography has its moments, using innovative angles and techniques to draw viewers into the world of late 19th-century America. Still, it sometimes feels overly stylized, diverting attention from the narrative instead of enhancing it. The visual choices certainly create an atmosphere, but a more balanced approach could have made the dramatic elements hit harder.

Tension That Falters

Watching The Current War brings a mix of excitement and frustration. The film initially grips you with its ambitious portrayal of fierce competition and innovation, yet it also has stretches that feel slower than they should be, resulting in a few moments of boredom. The emotional stakes could have been higher, given the fascinating historical context, but the film often skims over profound themes in favor of its historical framework. This diluted emotional weight makes it tough to fully invest in the characters' journeys, leading to a sense of detachment instead of the intended engagement. While it has thought-provoking elements, it fails to capitalize on them consistently.