***WARNING***
Blood, Sci-Fi Violence, 1 PG13 scene of nudity, and 1 F-Bomb
Viewer Discretion is advised
VIEWABLE AT SOURCE LINKDespite the fact that video game narratives seem like the perfect breeding ground for cinematic adaptations, years of weak offerings have soured many people’s opinions of them. With the growing popularity of web series and short films online though, the form has found renewed potential. One particularly lusted-after adaptation is Deus Ex: Human Revolution. With a feature film still in the works, a group of intrepid filmmakers have released a live-action short that could serve to aid in the long wait.
Produced by Dcode Films for the Machinima Prime platform, this adaptation of Deus Ex: Human Revolution avoids the usual trappings of game-to-screen transitions. Where many make the mistake of trying to retell stories that gamers have already experienced in-game, production company founder Moe Charif intends to expand upon the existing lore and further develop the character of Adam Jensen and his relationship with ex-girlfriend Megan Reed.
It’s immediately clear upon watching the short that the level of quality on display here is high. Not only do the physical sets and costumes evoke the sterile, cyberpunk aesthetic that the series is known for, but the visual effects and set extensions are beautifully executed. With nods to the game present in Jensen’s UI and an interesting take on his transhuman nature, Charif no doubt has a passion for the subject matter and an interest in developing upon it.
While it’s listed as simply a short film, Dcode Films’ Deus Ex: Human Revolution seems as though it would benefit from treatment as a series. There’s a wealth of content to build upon within the franchise and the development of Jensen’s struggle with transhumanism could make for an interesting short-form story arc.
Taken as it is though, Human Revolution is still an enjoyable watch for fans of the game series, if only to pick up on the fan service that has been included. While it’s by no means a perfect representation of the game, it’s proof that game-to-screen adaptations are still viable options, provided the right amount of talent and passion for the IP are present. Plus, with the recent PC release of Deus Ex: The Fall and the prospect of a sequel, there’s no better time to pull players and viewers back into the classic series.
With The Last Of Us and Shadow Of The Colossus also making their eventual way to the silver screen, is it possible that Hollywood has taken note of the negative stigma surrounding adaptations of games? What game do you feel would best translate to the feature film form?
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Sauce:
http://gamerant.com/deus-ex-human-revolution-live-action-short-film/