Netflix’s latest big-budget blockbuster, The Electric State, has come under heavy criticism from film critics, with some branding it “soulless” and “just plain dumb.”
However, the negative reviews haven’t stopped the film from dominating the streaming giant’s charts. Starring Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, The Electric State is reportedly one of the most expensive films ever made, with an eye-watering budget of $320 million. While Netflix has neither confirmed nor denied the exact cost, the film is widely believed to be the most expensive streaming production in history.
Critics haven’t held back in their assessments. The Times called it a “turgid eyesore,” while The Hollywood Reporter described it as “slick but dismally soulless.” The New York Times was even harsher, dubbing it “obvious, garish, and just plain dumb.” Meanwhile, Paste Magazine criticized the staggering production cost, calling it “the most banal way you can spend $320 million.”
Despite the harsh reviews, some outlets have been more forgiving. Empire deemed it “breezily watchable” and gave it three stars, while The Telegraph awarded four stars, describing it as a “Spielbergian treat.”
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently sits at a dismal 15% critic score—an unusually low rating for a project of this scale. However, in the streaming era, critical reception often has little impact on viewership numbers.
Despite the scathing arrows, upon its release on Friday, The Electric State immediately shot to the top of Netflix’s global charts.
This trend aligns with Netflix’s strategy of producing star-studded, escapist films that may not win over critics but consistently draw millions of viewers.
