Self/less is a 2015 science fiction thriller directed by Tarsem Singh, starring Ryan Reynolds and Ben Kingsley. The movie delves into themes of identity, mortality, and ethics, framed around a mind-bending body-swapping premise.
Detailed Summary
Introduction: The Ethics of Immortality
The film opens by introducing Damian Hale (Ben Kingsley), a wealthy real estate mogul with terminal cancer. Damian is introduced as a man who has achieved everything but is left facing his mortality. He is approached by a mysterious organization offering a process called “shedding,” which transfers his consciousness into a younger body. This introduction sets up the movie’s central question: is immortality worth the price?
The Shedding Process: A New Life as Edward
Damian undergoes the shedding process, his consciousness transferred into a much younger, healthier body (Ryan Reynolds). He is reborn as Edward and given a new lease on life. Initially, Damian revels in his newfound freedom and youth, enjoying the luxury of his second chance. However, he begins to experience strange, vivid hallucinations that seem like memories from another life.
Uncovering the Truth: Where the Body Came From
As the hallucinations intensify, Damian realizes that the body he inhabits may not have been “grown” in a lab, as the company claimed. His investigation leads him to discover the shocking truth: the body once belonged to Mark, a soldier and family man who willingly gave his life in exchange for money to support his family.
This revelation propels the film into a high-stakes thriller, as Damian grapples with the morality of his actions. He also uncovers a larger conspiracy involving the organization that performs the shedding process.
The Showdown with Albright
Damian’s journey brings him into conflict with Albright (Matthew Goode), the scientist behind the shedding process. Albright is ruthless in protecting his secret and will do whatever it takes to maintain control over the shedding technology. Damian, now empathetic to Mark’s family, must decide whether to continue living in the stolen body or fight to take down the corrupt system.
Movie Ending
In the climactic moments, Damian fights to destroy Albright’s organization while ensuring the safety of Mark’s wife and daughter. Ultimately, Damian makes the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to let Mark’s consciousness re-emerge and reclaim his body. Damian writes a farewell letter to Mark’s family, leaving behind the life he could have had. The film ends with a bittersweet note, raising profound questions about identity and self-sacrifice.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
There are no post-credits scenes in Self/less. Once the movie ends, the story is complete without any additional sequences to tease a sequel or further developments.
Type of Movie
Self/less is a sci-fi thriller with elements of psychological drama and action. It combines ethical dilemmas about life extension with action-packed sequences that keep the plot moving forward.
Cast
- Ryan Reynolds as Edward/Mark
- Ben Kingsley as Damian Hale
- Matthew Goode as Albright
- Natalie Martinez as Madeline
- Victor Garber as Martin O’Neill
Film Music and Composer
The score for the movie was composed by António Pinto, whose music blends emotional undertones with suspenseful and intense sequences, perfectly matching the film’s exploration of identity, mystery, and moral dilemmas.
Filming Locations
Self/less was filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana, and various locations in Georgia. The choice of these locations helped to create both the urban, high-society world of Damian and the more grounded, suburban environment where Mark’s family lived, juxtaposing the two worlds Damian navigates.
Awards and Nominations
The film did not receive significant awards recognition but was noted for its intriguing premise and performance by Ryan Reynolds. Despite its mixed critical reception, the movie has gained some attention for its thought-provoking themes.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Ryan Reynolds had to balance playing both Damian and Mark, as his character switches identities during the film.
- The director, Tarsem Singh, is known for his visually striking films (The Fall, The Cell), but Self/less takes a more subdued approach to focus on the ethical and emotional aspects.
- Ben Kingsley’s role was shorter than expected, though his performance as Damian in the first act sets the tone for the film’s exploration of mortality.
Inspirations and References
The movie’s premise has similarities to classic science fiction themes of body-swapping and identity, with inspiration drawn from stories like John Frankenheimer’s 1966 film Seconds, which also explores themes of rejuvenation and the consequences of altering one’s identity.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
While there is no confirmation of alternate endings, early drafts of the script reportedly considered more focus on Damian’s internal struggle with the morality of using someone else’s body, potentially extending his time before deciding to give Mark his life back.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Self/less is an original screenplay and not based on a book. However, its premise is reminiscent of various sci-fi novels and stories that deal with mind-body transfer, such as Altered Carbon by Richard K. Morgan.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Damian’s first awakening in Edward’s body, marveling at his newfound youth and strength.
- The hallucination sequences where Damian begins to experience Mark’s memories.
- The tense confrontation between Damian and Albright in the final act.
Iconic Quotes
- Albright: “Immortality has some side effects.”
- Damian/Edward: “There’s no such thing as a clean slate.”
- Damian: “It’s not about saving yourself. It’s about saving your soul.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Damian’s original home features a portrait of him that visually resembles a tombstone, foreshadowing his eventual “death” and the shedding process.
- The name “Albright” can be interpreted as a play on the idea of being “all bright” or enlightened, though his character’s actions are anything but.
Trivia
- Ryan Reynolds performed many of his own stunts, especially during the film’s action sequences.
- Ben Kingsley and Ryan Reynolds never actually filmed a scene together, even though they play the same character at different stages.
- The film was completed on a relatively modest budget for a sci-fi movie, at around $26 million.
Why Watch?
Self/less is a thought-provoking film that blends high-concept science fiction with human drama. If you’re interested in stories about identity, mortality, and second chances, this movie offers a unique take on these themes. Plus, fans of Ryan Reynolds will enjoy seeing him in a more serious, dramatic role.
Director’s Other Movies
- The Fall (2006)
- The Cell (2000)
- Mirror Mirror (2012)
- Immortals (2011)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Limitless (2011)
- Seconds (1966)
- In Time (2011)
- The Island (2005)
