My quick rating – 5.2/10. It’s refreshing to see a film with some guts again, and Renner certainly doesn’t shy away from its bold finale. The story follows a computer genius who designs an AI life coach to help him navigate love, only to realize too late that he’s unknowingly programmed his manipulative mother into the system. While the setup is highly predictable, the film manages to redeem itself with an unexpected swerve that adds real weight to the narrative.
As an indie sci-fi drama, Renner never quite explodes into something extraordinary, but it flirts with that potential thanks to strong performances and an engaging second half. Frankie Muniz has evolved into a well-balanced actor, delivering a nuanced performance that carries much of the film. It was also a nice change of pace to see Violett Beane in a role outside of the superhero genre as she brings charm and depth to the nosy neighbor/love interest.
The real standout, however, is the sheer audacity of how the story plays out in the end. Whether it was director Robert Rippberger’s choice or the writers crafting multiple possible outcomes, the finale delivers a rare sense of commitment that’s worth appreciating. Be warned, though—the last half-hour goes all in, making for a chaotic and gripping finish.
That said, Renner isn’t without its flaws. There are moments where you will be yelling at the screen, frustrated at the characters’ obliviousness to the obvious. But if you can roll with that, the film serves up some solid indie sci-fi entertainment with an edge. It’s a bold but uneven indie sci-fi that takes a predictable premise and pushes it somewhere worthwhile. Worth watching for the performances and its gutsy finale.
