The Current War (review) – what should have been a bright historical drama is more of a mediocre glow

Maybe the original cut of The Current War had more than a mediocre glow, but in truth, I doubt it. The Current War is now playing in cinemas nationwide.

Finally released without any mention of the Weinstein Company and significantly re-edited since its 2017 premiere, The Current War is a mess of a movie. From directorial changes to studio controversy and butchered versions of the final print, we can only hope that the original version becomes available one day, although I doubt it!

Focusing on the rivalry and competition between Westinghouse and Edison to bring electricity to American towns and cities during the years 1880 to 1893, The Current War stumbles around its historical drama like a drunk trying to take a piss in an alleyway. I instantly disliked Cumberbatch’s Edison and Shannon’s Westinghouse, with both portrayals dull, cold and utterly boring. It’s unusual to be so critical of such a highly talented cast, and one can only assume their hands were tied and their performances were butchered in the edit.

The only interesting character here is Hoult’s Tesla, who explores the limitations of immigrant status in early America, even for the most talented and visionary scientists. However, despite the opportunities his character offers the narrative, he is sidelined for most of the film, only resurfacing occasionally to make the Edison and Westinghouse story arc work. Equally lost is Tom Holland’s Samuel, but the major problem lies in the portrayal of women as little more than set dressing. Rather than exploring the vital role of Mary Eddison (Tuppence Middleton) and Marguerite Westinghouse (Katherine Waterston) in the lives and careers of the husbands they supported despite their challenging characteristics, the women are rarely given any time to shine.

The Current War does have moments of visual beauty, but it forgoes these by attempting to incorporate far more modern camera effects into its historical landscape. Strangely, this creates a film that often seems uncomfortable with the historical story at its heart, never sparking audience interest. Maybe the original cut of The Current War had more than a mediocre glow, but in truth, I doubt it.