Let's start off by making it clear Lucy is not an actual comic book movie. But with some of the themes presented and because the movie stars Scarlett Johansson, we figured it was worth discussing here.
We've often heard about humans only using 10% of their brains. The idea that if we could access more, we'd be able to unlock unknown potential. Some basic "superhero" abilities such as telepathy or telekineses could be explained by someone being able to tap into an undeveloped part of the brain that allows these fictitious abilities to be a reality. That's part of the premise of Luc Besson's film.
Johansson plays an average woman that gets mixed up in a bad situation. Forced to work for a high powered (and evil) druglord, Lucy unwillingly is forced to become a drug mule for a new drug called CPH4. During the deliver, the pouch containing the drug ruptures inside her and has a strange result.
We know the idea is indeed pure fiction. The 10% of our brain idea has been deduced as a false myth but it still provides an interesting notion if you're willing to move beyond it.
As Lucy continues to develop a higher use of her brain, there are some benefits but also a cost. As she gains more abilities, she also finds her humanity slipping along with her very survival. As the movie goes, there are several cheesy moments. There is a lot of absurd action. Lucy's immediate tendency to solve most obstacles with extreme violence makes it a little difficult to fully root for the character. That is also part of what Lucy has to deal with.
Most of the effects in the film are interesting. Again, this brings about the idea of real-life superpowers. You might find yourself grinning or shaking your head at some of the scenes but as a piece of entertainment, it does do that. This is a movie that, once upon a time, would have featured a male actor in the lead role. Score one for Hollywood and another one for Besson in giving an actress a starring role in a big action film.
It's far from a perfect movie but definitely worth checking out. The Blu-ray presentation is great at showcasing the film's visuals. After watching the movie, you'll have some things to think about both within the context of the film and in the decision of how the movie played out.
Special Features
Some of the features are exclusive to the Blu-ray.
The Evolution of Lucy (16:44)
This is a "making of" featurette. Besides seeing how some of the scenes were created, what's great is seeing and hearing Johansson and Besson discuss the movie. The character of Lucy wasn't quite just one character. As Lucy evolves, it requires some changes in how the character carries herself. Morgan Freeman also discusses some of the ideas and there's mention of filming in Taipei.
Cerebral Capacity: The True Science of Lucy (10:04)
The idea for Besson started ten years ago. He did meet with some scientists about the idea of humans only being able to access 10% of their brain. Besson worked to try find the balance between what is fact and what is fantasy. It's mentioned that some scientists believe the 10% usage is a myth. People can be trained to increase their brainpower but that doesn't necessarily prove the idea we are not using all of our brain. As Morgan Freeman points out, the idea of accessing this untapped potential is a fantasy so you can't disagree with someone's fantasy.
The special features are nice but it does feel a little lacking. Having some commentary or deleted scenes would have been nice. The movie itself runs about an hour and a half.
As I mentioned, it's not a perfect movie. If you're a fan of Luc Besson films, Scarlett Johansson, or pure over-the-top action films, Lucy is a movie you'll want to check out. Perhaps once you finish viewing it, you'll find yourself accessing a higher percentage of your own brain. Or maybe you'll slip down a fraction of a percent.
Here's the trailer if you've somehow missed it before the movie landed in theaters or if you just want to watch it again.
Lucy is now available on Digital HD video and Blu-ray/DVD combo pack.