How to Watch ‘Ex Machina’ for Free Starting July 1
‘Ex Machina’ is widely considered one of the defining science fiction films of the 2010s, and next month it will be even easier to watch. Alex Garland’s acclaimed directorial debut will be available to stream for free on Plex starting July 1, offering both longtime fans and first-time viewers another opportunity to experience one of modern sci-fi’s most influential films.
Released in 2015, ‘Ex Machina’ debuted during the early rise of A24 and quickly became one of the studio’s biggest success stories. Made on a reported budget of around $13 million, the film grossed nearly $40 million worldwide, making it A24’s highest-grossing movie at that time. Although several later releases surpassed that record, ‘Ex Machina’ helped establish the studio’s reputation for ambitious, filmmaker-driven projects.
The film stars Domhnall Gleeson as Caleb, a young programmer who wins a competition to spend time at the remote home of his company’s brilliant CEO, Nathan, played by Oscar Isaac. Once there, Caleb learns he has been chosen to perform the Turing Test on Ava, an advanced humanoid robot portrayed by Alicia Vikander. What starts as a scientific experiment gradually evolves into a tense psychological thriller as questions about consciousness, manipulation, trust, and artificial intelligence begin to blur.
More than a decade after its release, ‘Ex Machina’ continues to be discussed as one of the smartest science fiction films of the century. While many movies about artificial intelligence focus on large-scale action or futuristic wars, Garland opted for a quieter and more intimate approach.
Most of the story unfolds inside a single isolated estate, allowing the film to build tension through conversations rather than explosions. This decision has helped the movie age remarkably well.
The performances have also become a significant part of the film’s legacy. Oscar Isaac’s charismatic yet deeply unsettling portrayal of Nathan remains one of his most memorable roles.
Alicia Vikander’s performance as Ava earned widespread acclaim and helped elevate her to Hollywood’s top tier of actors. Her subtle and layered portrayal keeps viewers constantly questioning whether Ava is a victim, a villain, or something far more complex. Domhnall Gleeson serves as the audience’s perspective, gradually uncovering the truth alongside viewers.
‘Ex Machina’ also marked a significant milestone for Alex Garland. Following its success, he directed films such as ‘Annihilation’, ‘Men’, and ‘Civil War’, establishing himself as one of modern cinema’s most distinctive science fiction filmmakers. The movie also won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, surpassing much larger blockbuster productions, thanks to its seamless and understated effects work that still impresses today.
Its influence has only grown over time, especially as discussions about artificial intelligence have become part of everyday life. Themes that once felt speculative now seem increasingly relevant, giving the film new meaning for contemporary audiences. Rather than relying on spectacle, ‘Ex Machina’ poses challenging questions about technology, ethics, and what it truly means to be human.
Anyone who has never seen ‘Ex Machina’, or simply wishes to revisit one of the finest science fiction movies of the last decade, will be able to stream it for free on Plex beginning July 1.
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