Movie review: The Secret Rules of Modern Living: Algorithms

Algorithms are everywhere controlling many aspects of our daily lives behind the scenes. From the cycling of traffic signals to computer dating, algorithms are key. So what are they?

Host: Professor Marcus du Sautoy

The Secret Rules of Modern Living: Algorithms dives into these often complex calculations showing us how they are used in our daily lives without us even being aware of them. Sautoy does a nice job of giving us an entry-level introduction to a couple of different algorithm types and how they are used in real life. The examples are easily understood and nicely demystify the complexity of algorithms.

Admittedly acting is often questionable in documentaries but Professor Marcus du Sautoy does a decent job and comes across as a fairly articulate and amicable fellow.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are nicely done. The series uses a nice mix of natural scenery and CGI to present different types of algorithms. Dialogue is good though a bit more depth, or maybe more episodes, would be nice. Sound and soundtrack are good.

The Secret Rules of Modern Living: Algorithms is a nice introduction to the concept, but only an introduction. Those new to the concept should enjoy this one while those wanting more depth and detail may be slightly disappointed.

Nothing here to limit audience age.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 4.19.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Documentaries, British Documentaries

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