Review by John Delia
Kind of a cool movie, Life Like plays out well with a story that, although kind of déjà vu, gets compelling and a bit predictable. Even though, the fine acting in this nicely laid out Sci-fi thriller delivers an absorbing and persuasive film that’s sure to entertain.
Inheriting the wealthy estate of his father and taking over his company, James (Drew Van Acker) finds himself in the position of creating a fabulous life for himself and his wife Sophie (Addison Timlin). But, letting her beliefs about human servitude get in the way, Sophie fires the help at the vast estate, gives them restitution and decides that her and James can do the work themselves. Not in the cards for James he finds out from Board member Ronald (Mark Famiglletti) that they could get an android to do all the work.
At the showroom of the robot company, Sophie feels uncomfortable because the robot they are introduced to is a very beautiful woman and would make her jealous. In order to placate her the owner Julian (James D’Arcy) introduces them to a male robot named Henry (Steven Strait).
First time director and writer Josh Janowicz does an admirable job of putting his script on the big screen. He presents his main characters early on giving the audience a chance to accept their loving relationship and why they are moving to the huge estate. He then introduces Henry, the catalyst that will draw the audience into the story and turn them upside down.
In the part of Henry, Steven Strait who has the attributes of a strong, well designed android makes the character his. He moves like a human that’s very prim and proper, intelligent, and most of all able to take direction so to fit into the lives of the married couple. As the film progresses we see changes and that’s what makes Strait a winner in the role.
Both Addison Timlin and Drew Van Acker are perfect for the couple who are living large, but find themselves on the edge. James is new his father’s multi-million dollar company and has to be a leader with Acker showing that part of his personality is lacking. At home, although the loyal husband, it’s Sophie that has control. Together the two have the right chemistry to pull off their roles an make the film work.
SPECIAL BONUS FEATURE:
“Behind the Scenes of Life Like†There are two features in one here, actual shooting where you can see how the main crew filmed the movie and then comments from writer/director Josh Janowicz, Producer Sunil Perkash, actors Steven Strait, Addison Timlin, Drew Van Acker that discuss their characters.
Life Like has been rated R by the MPAA for language, sexuality, nudity and some violence. The violence does get very brutal and the nudity involves both sexes. It is now available on DVD, Digital HD and VOD,
FINAL ANALYSIS: Captivating and convicting. (3.5 out of 5 Stars)
Specifications and additional video information:
Cast:  James D’Arcy, Addison Timlin, Steven Strait
Directed and written by: Josh Janowicz
MPAA Rating: R for language, sexuality, nudity and some violence
Genre: Sci-fi, Thriller, Romance
Running Time: 1 hr. 35 min.
Video Release Date: May 14, 2019
Language: English
Reviewed Format: DVD
Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1
Video: Widescreen 16×9, Aspect Ratio 2.40:1
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish
Number of Discs: 1 Disc
Distributed by: Lionsgate
Released on: DVD, Digital HD, VOD