Cerebrum (2021) User Reviews

Interesting

[BandSAboutMovies · 5/10 · 4 May 2021]

Tom (Christian James, Hell Fest) has become a human lab rat to try to make enough money to survive, becoming part of his father's (James Russo, whose career stretches back to being the robber in Fast Times at Ridgemont High) memory experiment. But when he's accused of a crime that he can't recall, he must risk his own sanity to reveal the truth, even if the court has a digital backup of his mind.

Father and son have never gotten along, so one night after an argument, our protagonist wakes up in the yard and, as stated above, suddenly learns that he may have killed his father, who has created a program that can reinstall your memories.

This is the first script that Garry D. Houk has written (he also was part of the film's art department). It's also the first full-length movie from director Arvi. And while there are issues with length and the story, it's not a bad film. It has some great ideas and could have been a bit shorter, but both will be talents to look for in the future.

Misplaced effort all around

[imdb-2920 · 3/10 · 29 May 2021]

If only the scriptwriter put half as much effort into the script as these shill reviews.

You got to stop loading

[nogodnomasters · 4/10 · 7 August 2021]

Kirk (James Russo) has a barn in Texas where he can digitize your memory and load it into a disc and then place them back into you or someone else. He hopes to cure Alzheimer's disease. His son Tom (Christian James) needs the money so he allows his dad to experiment on him. They have a rough relationship. The experiment doesn't go as planned and bad guys enter the picture.

I am not into low budget science fiction in a barn or a garage where the characters and plot isn't mesmerizing. My DVD (Walmart) had subtitles playing that you could not shut off. Normally that would not be an issue except the subtitles start from about halfway through the film and make for a plot spoiler.

Guide: No swearing, sex, or nudity.

Heed This Warning: Save Your Time and Money

[theodore62 · 1/10 · 4 May 2021]

I made the mistake of not watching the trailer before trying this one, based on the many good reviews. If you cut the dramatic music from the trailer, you get a clear sense of how amatuerish and awful this thing really is. I did not get past the first five minutes before the bad acting, bad writing, and unbelieveably bad direction had me reaching for the remote.

3 guys with a camera in a Ranch make a movie.

[oyoytv · 2/10 · 4 May 2021]

Feel free to skip this. You already wasted enough of your time here.

Wish I could recapture the precious hours of my life lost on this

[igorpavlovichairbnb · 1/10 · 4 August 2021]

What a waste and very amateurish. Guess I get what I pay for in streaming and indi-sci-fi flick from an amateur director. This was cliche and if you have seen any digital-life-transcendance movie you pretty much are watching its rip-off cousin. I liked the "title" I guess, but that's probably the only positive thing out of this. Now how do I get back my hours?????

Almost as awesome as 'The Room'... almost!

[khunkrumark · 1/10 · 5 May 2021]

This is a serious attempt at film making by people with absolutely no self awareness. It's a 'so bad it's brilliant' movie, so, invite your friends, stock up with beer and prepare to be underwhelmed!

Seriously, if you liked The Room (2003), you're going to love this movie for the exact same reasons.

The prodigal son returns home to see his father who has a science lab in his barn. They hate each other, but the son happily gets wired up to some dodgy machine for some sci-fi brain sucking experiment.

Oh, God, it's just horrible and I watched it all the way through to the end!

How to (not) make a movie

[na-09069 · 2/10 · 18 September 2021]

O, man we are so drunk tonight, but i have an idea: why not make a movie together tomorrow? We did see so many movies, so we know how to act and make a movie ourselves. You have a camera somewhere don't you and your parents are on holiday so we can use their house with the barn. I know this Hollywood actor James Russo. He is good. He already got a name in the field. So we give him some money to play some scenes Then we sell it and get rich!

Apart from the obvious lack of willingness to honour the audience by at least attempting to act (mister Russo excluded), the film is loaded with shameless inconsistences from beginning to end and stupidity, like when Chloe comes running outside and sees "Tom" standing next to a car who says: "We gotta get to the farm now" and Chloe reacts "How?" while they're both standing at either side of a car. And the use of the German language.......... Then Reinhard who is in the body of Tom takes so much time to kill himself (Tom) that a severely handicapped snail 1 mile away would have time enough to crawl to the scene, reincarnate 3 times on the way and still have time enough to reach Reinhard's face and prevent the suicide/murder.

I can't get it back.

[Stealthy-22960 · 1/10 · 16 February 2022]

After watching this movie midway, I wished I could be like Maxine Waters and reclaim my time. Smh This movie is pretty bad and even the current rating of 3.8 is far too generous. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME with this one.

Unique subject nicely executed

[erfansattar · 8/10 · 6 May 2021]

Although categorized as sci-fi, but carries a distinct feel of a psychological thriller. The best thing is the way not only the characters, but the locale, cinematography and background score adds to the overall impact of the film. Nicely paced, so successfully keeps the viewer engaged throughout. All in all a very good movie.

Interesting concept filled with deception and lives, and the pursuit of the truth

[rannynm · 7/10 · 30 April 2021]

The new movie Cerebrum is a sci-fi film that gives viewers a sense of what a path to insanity looks like. With an interesting concept, deception and lies, and the pursuit to uncover the truth, Cerebrum will keep your eyes glued to the screen until the end. For thought-provoking, mind-altering entertainment, this is the movie to watch.

Cerebrum is about a man named Tom (Christian James) who returns to his father's home despite their tough, unfavorable relationship. Not long after arriving, Tom finds that his father Kirk (James Russo) is working on creating digital brains so that Alzheimer's patients would never lose their memory. Enticed by a monetary payoff, Tom gives in to his father, agrees to become a guinea pig for this secret, untested procedure, and ends up committing a crime that he can't remember. Working with Chloe (Alexxis Lemire), he has to uncover the truth before it's too late.

This movie has a well-executed tone. The story is chaotic and dangerous, and is complemented by darkness and dusky colors. The setting for most of Cerebrum takes place in a dark and messy lab. This creates tension and gives the movie an eerie feel. Along with the settings, the characters' wardrobe also matches the film's tone. Tom always wears dark colors that match his character's personality and the film's plot. The background music, arranged by Edward Antonio, enhances the sense of conflict. For instance, in one scene where Tom and Andy (Anirudh Pisharody) are fighting outside, the music keeps building and building until the end of their fight. It emphasizes what is going on, which makes the scene more memorable. Although Cerebrum intends to highlight the process of sharing memories between people, the parts of the storyline where people actually exchange minds is somewhat confusing. Even if you are paying close attention, if you miss one thing, you could be thrown off entirely. Despite this, the film kept me interested until the end.

The message of Cerebrum is that the truth will always come out. Even though many people accus Tom of committing the crime, he still persevered to uncover what really happened and eventually, others knew the truth as well. There is some profanity, so a parent should be aware of that.

Cerebrum is a captivating film, especially for fans of science fiction. It's definitely unlike anything I've ever seen before. I rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Maica N., KIDS FIRST!

It's a movie not too far from near future!

[kylefuhouston · 8/10 · 15 May 2021]

I was really blow away by the film! It got a good story/script about discovery new science but the best part is the relationship between a father and son. It's a film that I would recommend to anyone and whom didn't like science fiction films.

A great performances by the cast. It's a film will taking you on a roller coaster ride!

Fascinating Sci Fi Concept

[rossboyask-1 · 7/10 · 12 January 2022]

There's an intriguing Sci Fi concept behind Cerebrum, and the filmmakers execute it really well. It's a modest production, but shot and edited really well. The cast are good and the twists and turns in the final act are enjoyable and satisfying. Worth a watch, especially if you're into "hard" sci-fi concepts.

Intriguing and captivating conception filled with innovative plausible technology.

[amynnm · 9/10 · 5 May 2021]

From the outset, the movie needs the viewer's uninterrupted and complete attention. Even missing a quick beat will throw you off of the fascinating storyline.

It's an exceptionally well-thought-out plot that will keep you guessing its crescendo. A unique storyline filled with unanticipated twists and turns. Don't let the slow start discourage you. The story builds up as dynamic essential character's deception, trickery and lies start emerging through the exchange of memories and reminiscences. The nuanced family dynamics and its flashbacks add a distinctive backdrop to the storyline.

Overall, this movie is penetrating, refreshing, and enigmatic. It keeps you engrossed and at the edge of your seat.

Solid film when viewed through the lens of small budget/new faces.

[kylmathou · 10/10 · 14 May 2021]

Creative, unique and ambitious project. Interesting to watch and consider. Recommend.

I luv this film

[zuinlegha · 10/10 · 2 June 2021]

A great movie i watch with my wife and kids. Brain fry!

Intriguing and fun to follow

[neonnyx · 10/10 · 5 May 2021]

Loved the plot! The characters in this film did a great job! By the second half you are hooked into a unraveling a crime! Can you be committed for a crime you didn't commit? To save your memories? A fresh and thoughtful look into the future! Enjoyed untangling the puzzle, and debating the twists! Truly refreshing.

Christian James' performance was outstanding

[finius-64851 · 9/10 · 4 May 2021]

On the lighter side for sci fi, which I prefer. Easy story line to follow. Most noteworthy was Christian James' performance as the grudge-holding son, Tom, to the newly enlightened son, Tom and then swapping over to his deceased father, Kirk. Truly outstanding performance.

Felt like watching Inception

[ipiriya · 10/10 · 4 May 2021]

This movie is intense, detailed, filled with twists and if you don't pay attention you'll be lost. I like the plot, storyline. The characters did a good job emoting especially actor Christian James did an amazing job at it!! Loved it.

A neural sci-fi thriller with a heart-beat.

[irisstrings · 9/10 · 1 May 2021]

'I'm NOT my father', Tom's assertion is far from dubious. As an audience one wanders, then why is he visiting his father. It turns out Tom reluctantly agreed to be a guinea pig for his father's science experiment in exchange of monetary returns. As he sits in the chair in the make-shift lab setup in a barn, a device is attached to his head which creates a digital copy of his brain on to a chip, thereby storing memories which, in future, can be reloaded in case of a memory loss. The idea, on the surface, may sound familiar and one might think, so what? The answer to this very question will set the audience on a twisted, yet heart-warming, feature film length debut by Arvi Ragu. Picking up the mantle as writer, director, and producer, Ragu has proven that his short-film 'One Small Step', which won 2019 Remi Award at WorldFest - Houston International Film Festival, was not a one-time fluke. His first feature length film, Cerebrum, has won Special Jury Prize at 2021 WorldFest during its world premier at the closing night.

The idea of storing and reloading memory is merely a yarn knit into a myriad of pieces which Ragu has meticulously stitched together around the central narrative of father-son relationship. James Russo plays the father, Kirk Davis, who has managed to copy the neural structure of a brain onto a micro-chip. The incentive for his research stems from witnessing his wife falling prey to Alzheimer's. Russo's natural portrayal of the father sets the tone of this film early on. A son's reluctance to see his father and their strenuous relationship can be felt through Russo's voice. His son Tom is brilliantly played by Christian James, who carries the baton forward and, without any exaggeration, carries the film to its finish line. Without giving much away, early on in the movie there is a scene in his father's lab that involves memory reload and right after this he is sitting in front of a TV watching a home video tape that his father had recorded, both of these scenes encompass James' acting prowess. He should be nominated and bestowed with awards. In the side cast Andy Pisharody's over-zealous intern, as Bruno, brings the humor and Alexxis Lemire's Chloe is a cool breeze. Ragu has succeeded admirably making every character an essential part of the plot.

On the technical front Jakob Lofberg and Ron McPherson have captured wild west with scorching heat. Jon Blaze's editing and Edward Antonio's music keep the tension afloat. In summary, Cerebrum is a remarkable debut. For film-lovers sci-fi genre is a gateway drug that teases and pushes them to venture into making their first film and invariably they fall into the trap of plot-driven incoherent mess that becomes a copy of a copy of Christopher Nolan. Fortunately, Ragu has resisted that temptation and made Cerebrum a character driven film that is coherent and accessible, without, dare I say, the need of multiple viewings. It is the father-son relationship that drives this drama on a winding road to a satisfying climax, making this sci-fi thriller beat with a warm human heart.

Good film

[ruthmary-86862 · 9/10 · 2 June 2021]

My niece suggested that I give this movie a watch. At my age, I barely watch any movies. But took the time to watch this movie. What a great acting.

Heartwarming film. Good job and God bless.

Almost a 10 star movie

[cm-99014 · 8/10 · 19 May 2021]

My title says it all. This movie could have been an instant classic with 10 star rating.

What worked: The father and son relationship The complex, yet rewarding ending Great acting and Cinematography

What did not work: Science behind the scifi was not adequately explained Certain scenes were too long or too short

Overall worth watching ( a couple of times to get the story straight).

Hopefully with a larger budget they can make a better movie next time.

Slow burner Scifi drama with a lot of heart

[RobMadisson · 9/10 · 19 May 2021]

Ok, this is not your regular science fiction film. It starts out slow establishing characters, concepts and what not. But after the initial 20 minutes, it goes into an unexpected territory. And what I liked most is the final 30 minutes. It's confusing if you do not pay attention, but absolutely brilliant if you do (You might need a pen and paper to keep track of the characters).

Overall a heartwarming film, if you have the patience.

entertaining indie sci fi thriller

[hobang · 10/10 · 18 May 2021]

The movie is classified as sci fi thriller, but it much more expansive that that --it deftly dives into the age old question, what makes us human? It's a fun joy ride that leaves you guessing until the end. Our 12 and 15 year old girls enjoyed it as well.

Underrated movie that's worth a watch

[carlosparg · 9/10 · 2 June 2021]

I am a science fiction nut. I am always searching for a good scifi that makes you think. While randomly searching across Vudu, I came across Cerebrum. The synopsis and trailer looked great and decided to give it a shot.

To be honest, I was not sure if I wanted to continue watching it after the initial 10 minutes. But around the 15th minute came a surprise that made me sit through the next 15, then came another surprise. There were significant event happening from then on till the end of the movie (which I had to watch 3 times to understand).

I rented it the second time to watch it and realized, there were a lot of hidden stuff I had missed during the first watch.

Recommend!