Branded (2012)

Introduction
"Branded" is a 2012 dark sci-fi thriller directed by James Hyams and Jamie Bradshaw. The movie explores themes of consumerism, marketing, and corporate control with a dystopia backdrop. The film stars Ed Stoppard as the lead character, Misha Galkin, an innovative marketing executive, together with Leelee Sobieski, Jeffrey Tambor, Ingeborga Dapkunaite, and Max Von Sydow.

Plot Overview
The movie opens with Misha as a child witnessing his mom being squashed throughout a stampede triggered by a Coke-Cola marketing promo, leaving him with a threatening association with marketing. In spite of this catastrophe, Misha grows up to become a successful marketing executive for an international firm headed by Bob Gibbons (Jeffrey Tambor). Together with Abby, Gibbons' niece, Misha deals with a fast-food campaign that ends catastrophically, causing the death of a supermodel and a considerable scandal. Post the scandal, Misha is scapegoated, leading him to withdraw from the marketing industry and fall under depression.

Twist in the Tale
While living an isolated life in the countryside, Misha experiences prophetic visions influenced by a Red Cow, a symbol instilled in him by a mysterious figure (Max von Sydow) who declares to be a marketing master and entrusts him with the mission to study psychology and propaganda. Misha's visions expose the real nature of the world, where huge, Lovecraftian animals represent the brand names that manipulate and manage society and individuals' desires.

The Fight Against Consumerism
Misha decides to fight back and undermine the monstrous animals (i.e., the brand names) that have taken over individuals's minds. Using reverse method and psychology, he effectively drains pipes the life out of brands, causing society to renounce materialistic consumption and drive the once-great corporate world into turmoil and ruins.

Conclusion
"Branded" ultimately looks into the dichotomy in between Misha's awareness of the disastrous impact of corporations and his desire to get back at the system that wronged him. The climax involves Misha's pivotal choice, either to eradicate consumerism entirely and let society degrade or revive the corporate beasts to restore a balance keeping a check on their impact. The movie ends on a threatening note, reminding the audiences of the omnipresent and ever-growing impact of consumerism and branding in today's society.

Vital Reception
Regardless of its interesting topic, "Branded" received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its intriguing story and dystopian setting, others critiqued it for its confusing plot and lack of coherence. The movie is undoubtedly a surreal and audacious exploration of marketing, brand power, and the hold they have on modern society, using a twisted yet thought-provoking viewpoint on consumerism.

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