Film review: The Correction Unit

Shot entirely in Notts, new dystopian sci-fi thriller The Correction Unit premiered at Broadway Cinema on 23 September. The evening started with a performance of young dancers paired with visuals from the film, which was exceptional to watch and set the tone for the evening.  

Following a group of youngsters incarcerated in a prison facility governed by a faceless A.I., the film merges themes of justice, dissent, and dystopia, with the plot evolving as the characters begin to question and revolt against the authoritarian system around them.

This is a film that at times is unnerving to watch - there’s blood, drugs and gang violence making for a good dose of action and a healthy amount of AI references, which present a bleak future, giving a sci-fi-meets-realism feel to the film. Several key close-ups, on items such as knives and guns, flowed well with the other camera angles and helped tell the story of the film.

Local legend-in-the-making Bella Ramsey, of Game of Thrones and The Last of Us fame, stars as the voice of the AI programme 'nTrac'. Their clear and crisp voice is perfect for the role and nTrac becomes a sinister and dominating presence - not seen, but represented by AI infused cameras. It is great to see that Bella is keen to return to Nottingham. An alumni of The Television Workshop, where many of the actors in this film have also studied, they prove the rich talent coming from the city and its leading acting school.

I found the film well-casted, with each actor bringing something individual to their role. While many of the characters are involved in gang-related crime and exhibit criminal behaviour, it becomes clear that they suffer from early childhood trauma. Sonny Middleton as main character Shawn is reserved yet explosively chaotic, and a strong acting presence on screen, while Tish, played by Elleese Bradshaw, goes on a rich emotional journey. As the film progresses, Tish becomes under the influence of the AI programme nTrac, and we discover that she dreams of becoming a dancer. 

Yvonne, played by Kirsty Smedley, showed versatility in her role, merging maternal instincts with emotional strength and vulnerability. Ziad Abaza as James brought a convincing tech entrepreneur, with elements of some of modern tech tycoons in his hints of guile and betrayal. His companion, John Smyth, played by Jonny Phillips portrayed his character as sly, cunning, and sinister, yet still a relatable villain.

In a film with heavy topics such as this one, it was great to see an actor who lit up every time he was on screen. In his first role, Zak Hopkinson as Jacob brought a light hearted performance, infused with friendship and likability. A breakout role for this young actor, keep a look out for his next film by a certain Shane Meadows. 

A shout out to Will J. Carman for the beautiful cinematography - the two years spent on filming can really be seen - and Derry Shillitto for the well-written script. The music and eerie and dramatic sound design is thanks to Darcy Colin Adam, the sound mix of Rick Smith and the music by Gaz Frost.  

The Correction Unit could be showing us, as an audience, our future or more importantly, our present. Especially so if AI is not controlled by us as a human race, is put into the wrong hands or used for the wrong reasons. A thought provoking and exciting film with a good amount of action and CGI.

The Correction Unit is available online to rent or buy via Amazon, Apple TV and Google TV.

@FoyleRiverFilms