The Electric State (2025), directed by the Russo Brothers, is one of Netflix’s most ambitious projects to date, with a staggering production budget of approximately $300–320 million. This makes it one of the most expensive films ever produced by the streaming giant. The budget was allocated to creating a visually stunning retro-futuristic world, blending 1990s aesthetics with advanced CGI to bring Simon Stålenhag’s graphic novel to life. The film features an ensemble cast led by Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, alongside Ke Huy Quan, Stanley Tucci, and Giancarlo Esposito, with several robots voiced by notable actors like Anthony Mackie and Woody Harrelson. The Russo Brothers, known for their work on Avengers: Endgame, utilized cutting-edge technology and practical effects to craft a post-apocalyptic landscape filled with intricate animatronics and breathtaking visuals.
Scheduled for release on March 14, 2025, The Electric State will debut exclusively on Netflix, marking a significant milestone for the platform as it continues to compete with traditional Hollywood studios. The film’s release strategy includes a global premiere on the streaming service, ensuring accessibility to millions of viewers worldwide. Early trailers have already generated significant buzz, with fans praising the unique blend of emotional storytelling and high-concept science fiction. The film’s narrative follows Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), a young woman traveling across a robot-filled wasteland to find her missing brother, accompanied by a mysterious robot and a smuggler named Keats (Chris Pratt).
The success story of The Electric State lies in its ability to merge heartfelt storytelling with blockbuster-level spectacle. The Russo Brothers have described the film as a “fairy tale” with universal themes of family and resilience, which resonated deeply with audiences during test screenings. The adaptation has also received praise from Simon Stålenhag, the creator of the original graphic novel, who commended the filmmakers for expanding on the emotional core of his work. With its star-studded cast, groundbreaking visuals, and a compelling narrative, The Electric State is poised to become a landmark achievement for Netflix, solidifying its place as a major player in the film industry.
