Michelle (Millie Bobby Brown), the protagonist of The Electric State that’s streaming on Netflix, is a resilient and determined young woman navigating a dystopian world dominated by technology and loss.
Her journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and a deep-seated love for her brother, Chris.
Through her character, the film explores themes of familial bonds, autonomy, resistance against oppressive systems, and the blurred lines between humanity and technology.
Overview
Background and Initial Struggles
The Opening Scene: A Glimpse into Michelle’s Family
The film opens with a moment that indirectly introduces Michelle’s strong emotional connection with her brother, Chris.
Chris, a mathematical prodigy, successfully completes a timed math quiz but refuses to go to college, despite Michelle’s encouragement.
This moment establishes her belief in her brother’s potential and her desire to see him succeed.
The Tragedy That Defines Her
Unlike many in her world who lost loved ones in the war between humans and robots, Michelle’s tragedy is personal and unrelated to the war.
A car accident involving a deer led to the death of her parents, orphaning both her and Chris.
This event significantly shapes her outlook on life, instilling in her an aversion to escapism and reinforcing her need to stay grounded in reality.
Life in the Foster System
After the loss of her parents, she ends up in a foster home, where she is treated more as a means for financial gain than as a child in need of care.
Her foster parent, Ted, exploits her by enrolling her in extra activities for additional child services benefits.
Michelle’s resistance to using the Neurocaster—a technology that allows people to live dual realities—further isolates her from those around her.
She is one of the few who refuses to detach from reality, making her a stark contrast to the society she lives in.
A Bond That Transcends Boundaries
Chris’s Presence in Her Life
Despite believing Chris to be dead, Michelle’s attachment to him remains unwavering.
Her flashbacks reveal a warm, caring relationship where Chris is both her protector and a source of strength.
The Discovery That Changes Everything
Her life takes a drastic turn when she encounters a robot named Cosmo, who communicates with her using broken signals.
It is through Cosmo that she learns Chris is not only alive but trapped in Sentre’s system.
This revelation ignites her determination to find and save him, setting her on a perilous journey through an unforgiving world.
Michelle’s Journey: A Test of Will and Morality
Entering the Exclusion Zone
Michelle tracks down a smuggler, Staff Sgt. John D. Keats (Chris Pratt), to help her enter the Exclusion Zone, where she hopes to find clues about Chris’s whereabouts.
Despite initial reluctance, the smuggler allows her to tag along.
Her resourcefulness and unyielding resolve prove invaluable as they navigate through dangerous territories filled with scavenger bots and relentless enemies.
Meeting Mr. Peanut and Understanding the War’s Aftermath
Upon arriving at a robot refugee settlement led by Mr. Peanut, she is confronted with the deeper implications of the war.
Mr. Peanut embodies the struggle for robotic independence, questioning humanity’s treatment of robots.
While initially distrustful of humans, Mr. Peanut ultimately sees something different in Michelle.
This recognition leads him to assist her, further cementing her role as a bridge between humanity and technology.
Relationship with Keats
Keats, a sassy and reluctant companion, becomes an unlikely ally to Michelle.
Their relationship starts off rocky, as he initially views her as a nuisance. However, as they travel together, he respects her determination and resilience.
Despite his cynical outlook on life, he grows fond of Michelle, showing subtle signs of protectiveness.
He shares his own experiences with betrayal and survival, teaching her the world’s harsh realities.
In return, Michelle challenges his indifferent attitude, pushing him to care about something greater than himself.
One of the most significant moments in their relationship is when Keats decides to help Michelle rescue Chris, leaving behind his self-serving ways.
His character development, symbolized by his haircut (a visual cue of personal growth), is largely influenced by Michelle’s unwavering resolve.
Their partnership reaches its peak when they engage in the final battle, where Keats fights alongside Michelle against overwhelming odds.
His willingness to risk his life for the cause, especially after years of avoiding emotional ties, is a testament to how much Michelle has influenced him.
Their bond is one of mutual respect and transformation, proving that even in a broken world, human connection can still change lives.
The Climactic Struggle: Sacrifice and Loss
Finding the Doctor and Learning the Truth
When Michelle finally locates Dr. Amherst, she discovers the horrifying reality that Chris’s brain is the foundation of Sentre’s Neurocaster network.
His mind was exploited for over three years, and his escape attempt was barely successful.
This truth fuels Michelle’s anger and solidifies her mission: she must free her brother at any cost.
The Final Battle: A Costly Victory
With the help of Mr. Peanut and a group of rebel robots, Michelle leads an attack on Sentre.
While Keats and his allies fight on the battlefield, Michelle sneaks inside to find Chris.
What follows is one of the most emotional moments in the film—Chris, aware of his predicament, tells Michelle that the only way to truly stop Sentre is to disconnect him permanently.
This decision weighs heavily on Michelle, but she ultimately does what is necessary, shutting down the system and ending Chris’s suffering.
The battlefield shifts as the Neurocaster network is at the brink of collapse.
Ethan, the antagonist who believes in the forced evolution of humanity, joins the fray with a powerful drone, slaughtering rebels without remorse.
Amid the chaos, Michelle’s allies make significant sacrifices.
Once a staunch enforcer, the Butcher questions his morality and ultimately abandons his role.
Mr. Peanut, ever the fighter, refuses to surrender, declaring his right to freedom.
The battle culminates in Michelle pulling the plug on Chris, symbolizing both his liberation and her tragic victory.
The Aftermath: A New Hope
In the wake of the battle, Michelle delivers a powerful message to the world.
She emphasizes the dangers of technological escapism and urges people to reconnect with reality and each other.
Her speech serves as the final step in her transformation—from a grieving sister to a leader advocating for change.
Her actions inspire a new movement, one that seeks to rebuild without dependence on the Neurocaster.
However, the ending leaves the audience with an open question—Chris’s reflection appearing in a puddle suggests his consciousness might still exist somewhere.
This subtle detail adds a layer of ambiguity, hinting that Michelle’s journey might not be entirely over.
Also Read: Running Point Summary and Ending Explained
