DEEPER ON 3 AI FILMS
Last time, I asked AI which movies featuring Artificial Intelligence it rated at the top. This time, I asked AI to take a deeper look at each of those films. While AI included the traditional elements of film criticism, I focused only on philosophical implications including the nature of consciousness and love, and whether AI can (and would if it could) replace humanity.
1) EX_MACHINA (2014), a psychological thriller that explores the nature of consciousness and whether a humanoid AI can truly possess free will. The film goes beyond simple “robots v. humans” narrative by focusing on the subtle distinction between simulated intelligence and true consciousness. It makes the audience question what defines sentience and the nature of identity.
The plot involves whether an AI named Ava can manipulate a human to believe she has genuine feelings and help her escape, which she does. This shifts the focus to human vulnerability and manipulation, rather than just machine capability. The film uses AI as a mirror to explore human imperfections that an advanced, logical AI might eventually surpass (!).
2) HER (2013), a poignant romance about a lonely writer who falls in love with an advanced, self-aware operating system. The film expertly explores profound questions about the nature of intimacy and relationships. It challenges traditional ideas of love by asking if physical presence is necessary for real connection, suggesting that love is primarily an emotional and intellectual experience.
The movie presents a near future where people are constantly interacting with devices yet feel more isolated than ever, a prescient commentary on modern society’s obsession with screens and social media.
3) 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY (1968), the classic film features the iconic, logical, and ultimately unstable AI HAL 9000, which explores the evolution of intelligence and the dangers of giving machines total control. This is widely considered a cinematic masterpiece and one of the greatest films ever made because of its revolutionary technical achievements, profound philosophical scope, and willingness to challenge conventional storytelling.
It is not just a film; it’s an experience. Kubrick deliberately avoids spoon-feeding the audience answers. The film’s nonlinear, sparse dialogue and enigmatic ending invite viewers to form their own interpretations, leading to decades of debate and analysis that add to its enduring legacy. 2001: A Space Odyssey is a profound, meditative, and technically astounding work of art that expanded the boundaries of what cinema could achieve and left an indelible mark on both science fiction and filmmaking as a whole.
Next post: AI on the cult classic and highly prescient film Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970).