Entering the World of High-Tech Espionage
In the near future, a man named Morgan (Jeremy Northam) seeks an entirely new kind of work, hoping it will bring him some excitement. After applying for a position at Digicorp, a large corporation known for its expertise in computer technology, he is questioned and tested. Successfully winning the job, Morgan begins a new role unlike anything he has ever done before. His new work is top secret, often requiring him to travel to various destinations and record confidential corporate discussions and presentations. The job is so classified that Morgan must also keep it hidden from his wife, a condition he readily accepts.
Temptation, Mystery, and the Unravelling of Reality
During one of his work trips, Morgan meets Rita (Lucy Liu), a mysterious woman who immediately stands out from the crowd. Although he is married, Morgan finds himself inexplicably drawn to her while also discovering new and unexpected desires, including drinking whiskey, smoking, and developing a sudden craving to play golf. While he is finally content with his new lifestyle, Morgan begins to experience strange visions and recurring pain in his neck. In secret, Rita continues to appear in his life, offering subtle hints and cryptic details that lead him toward a shocking realisation that nothing is as it seems. The truth behind what Morgan’s job truly is proves to be as astonishing as it is unsettling. Can he uncover what is really happening around him and who he truly is?
Cypher: A Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Thriller from Vincenzo Natali
Cypher is a film that blends elements of the science fiction and thriller genres, with a touch of steampunk style. It is directed by Vincenzo Natali, whose previous work behind the camera includes Cube (1997), Splice (2009), In the Tall Grass (2019), Graveyard Rats (2022), and more. It goes without saying that Natali has a strong background in science fiction, horror, and stories steeped in mystery.
Impressive Sci-Fi World-Building and Intriguing Mysteries
Regarding what the film gets right, I loved the science fiction aspect. This includes several fresh ideas and concepts not often seen in cinema. Along with the world it creates, the film’s opening and first act are fantastic, with moments where the visuals and overall style are quite remarkable. This is especially true during the introduction to Morgan and his new life through his employment at Digicorp. The film also presents many intriguing mysteries, leaving viewers with plenty of questions and a growing curiosity about what is truly happening.
Predictable Twists and Uneven Performances
Pacing-wise, there is no denying that some scenes drag on longer than I would prefer. While it is enjoyable to watch the film’s conclusion unfold, it becomes highly predictable long before it arrives. Cypher features some strong performances, but I found Lucy Liu’s performance somewhat wooden, and at times she even seemed unfitting for the film. While the opening and core mysteries were introduced effectively, the major twist is quite predictable long before it is revealed in the finale.
A Futuristic Thriller with Intriguing Ideas and Uneven Execution
Cypher (2002) is now available on 4K UHD thanks to Umbrella!
Published: 15th October 2025
Written by: Peter Walkden
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