Jared Moshé’s “Aporia” is a cleverly crafted, emotionally effective indie sci-fi film that explores the ethical repercussions of time travel. With a modest budget but powerful performances, the movie follows a trio of characters who use a homemade particle accelerator to alter the past, only to face unforeseen consequences in the present.
The story centers around Sophie (played by Judy Greer), a struggling mother who recently lost her husband, Malcolm (Edi Gathegi), in a tragic hit-and-run accident. Together with Jabir (Payman Maadi), an Iranian scientist building a makeshift time machine, they embark on a journey to change the course of their lives.
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Moshé skillfully presents the science of time travel without delving into complex details, focusing instead on the moral dilemmas that arise from altering history. Jabir’s device allows them to eliminate someone from the past, but the resulting ripple effects challenge their sense of right and wrong. When they decide to eliminate the drunk driver responsible for Malcolm’s death, it sets off a chain of events that leads to unforeseen consequences, affecting other families in the process.
As the characters grapple with the repercussions of their actions, the film delves into questions of morality and the consequences of playing with time. Who benefits from such interventions? Are they justified in manipulating time to save innocent lives, even if it means taking others? These ethical dilemmas add depth and complexity to the narrative.
“Aporia” may remind viewers of Shane Carruth’s “Primer,” another indie sci-fi film centered around the complexities of time travel. However, Moshé’s film stands on its own, with its heartfelt portrayal of the three central characters. Judy Greer, Edi Gathegi, and Payman Maadi deliver compelling performances, making the emotional impact of the story palpable.
While “Aporia” employs some indie filmmaking tropes, such as handheld camerawork and a prominent score, it is the emotional journey of the characters that takes center stage. Moshé successfully balances the sci-fi elements with genuine human emotions, making the film resonate with audiences.
In conclusion, “Aporia” is a thought-provoking indie sci-fi gem that offers a fresh take on time travel narratives. With strong performances and a focus on moral complexities, the film invites viewers to contemplate the consequences of altering the past. While it may not boast the big-budget spectacle of mainstream sci-fi films, “Aporia” proves that a compelling story and genuine emotions can leave a lasting impact on the audience.