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Sci-fi thriller

Empathy, Inc. (2019): Cast & Ratings

Empathy, Inc. (2019) movie poster

Empathy, Inc. is a 2019 sci-fi thriller directed by Yedidya Gorsetman, starring Zack Robidas as Joel, Kathy Searle and Karen Lynn Gorney. It runs 1 hour 37 minutes. Critics gave it 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and 48 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 5.7/10.

IMDb rating
5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes
89%
Echo Score
80
Metascore
48
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Empathy, Inc. (2019) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 37m (97 min)
Genres
Sci-Fi , Drama , Thriller
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Empathy, Inc. About?

The premise of Empathy, Inc. without spoilers.

A venture capitalist named Joel faces a career crisis when a major deal collapses, forcing him to rely on his actress wife, Jessica. Seeking a fresh start, he invests in Empathy, Inc., a startup developing XVR technology that promises immersive and empathetic experiences. However, as Joel delves deeper into the company's operations, he discovers a disturbing truth about their agenda, leading him to question the nature of reality and the potential consequences of simulated empathy.

Empathy, Inc. Themes & Keywords

· 1 tag
  • reality
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Cast & crew

Empathy, Inc. Cast & Characters

Zack Robidas leads the cast as Joel, with Kathy Searle as Jessica and Karen Lynn Gorney as Miss Miriam. Directed by Yedidya Gorsetman; 10 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Empathy, Inc.

· 6 more
Ratings

Empathy, Inc. Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Empathy, Inc. 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and 48 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 5.7/10. Our Echo Score gives it 80/100, strongest in character & emotion (85) and weakest in story & flow (70).

80 /100

Empathy, Inc. Echo Score Breakdown

Empathy, Inc. presents a distinctive fusion of noir-inflected visuals and thought-provoking themes, though its narrative resolution divides opinion. Critics praised the inventive concept but noted a decline in narrative momentum during the final act, while users responded enthusiastically to its social commentary and suspenseful developments. Across various elements—from production design to character arcs—the film maintains a compelling atmosphere, despite occasional structural unevenness. On balance, the interplay of inventive ideas and stylistic ambition yields a modestly satisfying experience.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 80

    In terms of art and craft, the film excels in its cinematography and production design, delivering a cohesive noir-inflected visual identity. Critics noted the throwback setting, and users highlighted the monochromatic palette and inventive camera work. The editing occasionally contributes to the measured pacing, though transitions in the third act felt abrupt. Overall, the visual execution secures a strong stylistic presence.

  • Character & Emotion 85

    When it comes to character and emotion, performances deliver nuanced portrayals of ambition and moral conflict. Users praised the depth of Joel’s journey and the supporting cast’s ability to convey systemic and personal stakes. Critics acknowledged the intimate scale but felt the protagonist’s arc lost momentum in the finale. Altogether, the acting ensemble sustains emotional resonance even as narrative focus wanes.

  • Story & Flow 70

    In terms of story and flow, the concept of virtual identity exchange offers originality and engagement early on. User feedback emphasizes effective suspense and thematic depth, while critics point to predictability and an uneven third act that undermines pacing. Plot coherence remains solid until the finale, but narrative revelations are sometimes telegraphed. Ultimately, the story balances imaginative premise with occasional structural inconsistencies.

  • Sensory Experience 80

    In terms of sensory experience, the film’s score and sound design serve the suspenseful atmosphere without calling attention to itself. The monochromatic visual style and cohesive soundscape reinforce the neo-noir tone, as noted by users appreciative of its immersive qualities. Critics acknowledged the throwback visuals but did not highlight audio elements. Overall, the audiovisual blend supports mood and thematic resonance effectively.

  • Rewatch Factor 80

    In terms of rewatch potential, the film’s layered themes and subtle foreshadowing invite additional viewings. Several users highlighted the script’s careful placement of clues and narrative surprises that become more rewarding on a second watch. Although the structural unevenness in the final act may diminish repeat appeal for some, the thematic complexity and immersive atmosphere strengthen its lasting appeal overall.

Videos

Empathy, Inc. Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Empathy, Inc..

EMPATHY, INC. (2018) Exclusive Official Trailer HD

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FAQ

Empathy, Inc. FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date

Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings and post-credit scenes of Empathy, Inc., each answered in a sentence.

How long is Empathy, Inc.?

Empathy, Inc. runs 1 hour 37 minutes (97 minutes).

When was Empathy, Inc. released?

Empathy, Inc. was released on September 13, 2019.

Who directed Empathy, Inc.?

Empathy, Inc. was directed by Yedidya Gorsetman.

Who is in the cast of Empathy, Inc.?

Empathy, Inc. stars Zack Robidas as Joel, Kathy Searle as Jessica and Karen Lynn Gorney as Miss Miriam, among 10 credited actors.

How is Empathy, Inc. rated?

Empathy, Inc. has 5.7/10 on IMDb, 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, 48 on Metacritic and 60% on TMDB.

Does Empathy, Inc. have a post-credit scene?

No. Empathy, Inc. has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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