Lapsis, soon to be confused with the precious stone in theatres around the world, is a rough gem of a film that shows that even the most interesting concept can be dragged down by an unfortunately typical telling. There is a lot to like about this film; stellar production design for its budget, impressive practical effects and a suave handling of “info-dumps” and other essential context allow the film to skilfully navigate many of the pitfalls that plague “high concept” sci-fi. Its world has a wonderfully worn-in realism, but at its very best Lapsis feels fake: there is a very compelling authenticity to the smoke and mirrors of the film’s many spin doctors, pyramid schemers and ceaselessly smiling public relations teams. The technology might be revolutionary, but the themes of the film are firmly rooted in reality and Noah Hutton gleefully takes a hammer to some of the most cherished illusions of contemporary capitalism.
Still, there is a but. The second half of the film is a jarring change of pace from the steady, immersive start and drags the film down into an unfortunately average sci-fi fare. There are a number of narrative threads that don’t go anywhere as well as some real groaners towards the end. There is something that might be charitably called a “twist” that adds very little to the film and certain important characters are rather ill-defined. With regards to the ending itself there is a certain immature optimism to the finale that is a bit too uncritical for a film billed as cutting satire. A movie with a concept this unique and a set-up so compelling deserves better, Lapsis simply can’t afford to be typical.
Lapsis is definitely a film worth watching. If you were turned off by the trailer, which has a certain menace to it that belies the humour and heart of the film, I would recommend giving it another go.