In an emotionless post -apocalyptic world called 'The Collective, the inhabitats live there lives void of emotions. When an illness named ' Switched-On-Syndrome' or SOS begins infecting inhabitants a handful of people start to feel real feelings for the first time. This includes Illustrator Silas (Nicholas Hoult - X-MEN FIRST CLASS) and his colleague Nia (Kristen Stewart - Twilight). As their love grows the two of them begin to push the boundaries of their society while trying to keep their love hidden.
Equals is a beautifully crafted film, quiet but powerful in so many ways. Watching true human emotions played out for the first time is so wonderfully acted, huge props to Nicholas Hoult who is the focused character to experience feeling true feelings. He plays out every emotion with such grace and wonder that you actual feel like you are watching the real thing. From touch, taste and finally love he throws so much at the role, so much I would even say this is his best film to date. Kristen Stewart plays hidden emotionless well.......there is a joke in there somewhere. Equals is a modern day Romeo and Juliet in it's style with the feel of Ex-Machina thrown in there for good measure.
All kidding aside regarding Stewart though I do think the chemistry between her and Holt was very good. You good feel the love between Silas and Nia, and this makes the closing act of the film so sad. The start crossed lovers who can't show their love for one enough in a world where everyone is looking for those infected. The film doesn't need to be loud, it doesn't need over the top sex scenes, it was beautiful done with passion and style which is an art lost in cinema today.
It is a shame Equals didn't get a wider cinema release, it would be a shame for this to fade into the ever misty world of straight to DVD, but I hope people get out there and give it a go. Well acted and masterfully directed by Drake Doremus (Like Crazy, Breathe In) this film will make you look differently at every emotion you feel.