Ranking Every Alex Garland Movie and TV Show

Alex Garland is a prominent figure in contemporary science fiction, known for his thought-provoking narratives and visually stunning storytelling. From his early days as a screenwriter to his more recent ventures as a director, Garland has left an indelible mark on the film and television industry. Let’s explore and rank every movie and TV show associated with Alex Garland, delving into their themes, impact, and overall quality.

Table of Contents

1. ‘Ex Machina’ (2014)

Director: Alex Garland
Starring: Domnhall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander, Oscar Isaac

“Ex Machina” stands as Alex Garland’s magnum opus, a masterful exploration of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the blurred lines between man and machine. The film follows tech programmer Caleb as he participates in a groundbreaking experiment to evaluate the human qualities of a highly advanced humanoid AI, Ava. Garland’s screenplay is taut and gripping, posing profound questions about the nature of identity and ethics in the age of artificial intelligence. Domnhall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander, and Oscar Isaac deliver powerhouse performances, elevating “Ex Machina” to a cinematic tour de force.

2. ‘Annihilation’ (2018)

Director: Alex Garland
Starring: Natalie Portman, Gina Rodriguez, Oscar Isaac

“Annihilation” is a mesmerizing journey into the unknown, blending stunning visuals with philosophical depth to create a truly immersive experience. Garland’s adaptation of Jeff VanderMeer’s novel follows soldier Lena as she ventures into “The Shimmer,” a mysterious biological area with transformative properties. The film delves into themes of self-destruction, evolution, and the nature of reality, leaving audiences mesmerized and contemplative. With standout performances and haunting imagery, “Annihilation” solidifies Garland’s reputation as a visionary filmmaker.

3. ‘Civil War’ (2024)

Director: Alex Garland
Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Wagner Moura

“Civil War” marks Alex Garland’s latest foray into the realm of near-futuristic action, offering a tantalizing premise wrapped in political intrigue. While the film boasts impressive action sequences and thought-provoking themes, it falls slightly short of Garland’s previous works in terms of emotional resonance. Nevertheless, “Civil War” remains a compelling exploration of societal collapse and the human condition, anchored by Kirsten Dunst’s standout performance as a photojournalist grappling with the chaos around her.

4. ‘Devs’ (2020)

Director: Alex Garland
Starring: Sonoya Mizuno, Karl Glusman, Nick Offerman

“Devs” marks Garland’s venture into the realm of television, offering a thought-provoking exploration of technology, determinism, and free will. The miniseries follows software developer Lily as she investigates the secretive development division of her company, uncovering startling truths along the way. While “Devs” boasts compelling performances and intriguing philosophical themes, some critics felt that its narrative pacing faltered at times. Nevertheless, the series remains a captivating addition to Garland’s body of work.

5. ‘Men’ (2022)

Director: Alex Garland
Starring: Jessie Buckley, Rory Kinnear, Gayle Rankin

“Men” represents Garland’s foray into the folk horror genre, offering a chilling tale of identity, obsession, and psychological turmoil. While the film boasts strong performances and atmospheric tension, some critics found its thematic exploration to be somewhat lacking in depth. Nevertheless, “Men” serves as an intriguing entry in Garland’s filmography, showcasing his versatility as a storyteller and director.

In conclusion, Alex Garland’s body of work encompasses a diverse array of cinematic and televisual achievements, each offering a unique glimpse into the complexities of the human condition and the mysteries of the universe. From his groundbreaking directorial efforts to his acclaimed screenplays, Garland continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and visual storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the world of science fiction and beyond.

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Adam Regan: Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com