A scene from “Her”. Image courtesy Warner Bros. Picture.
Now is the time when we feel the presence of the virtual world more strongly than ever. Different dimensions of human life closely dwell on the shift that technology has taken over time. Think for a moment. As romantic as it may sound, would you spare the time every day to post love letters to your partner in a bid to show your affection? Or is it simply a bygone age?
Life as we know it today has already adapted new ways of building human interactions. With smart devices at our disposal future of our dating life too is redesigned to take a new shape. Envisaging a future shaped by artificial intelligence not only fascinates technology geeks but also paves the path to create a provocative storyline for film directors too.
An engaging and visually stunning piece of art that sheds light on a different realm of human interaction is what you will experience in the film ‘Her’. In a not so distant future, Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) has already drifted apart from his wife. Distraught, he yearns to have his emotions expressed. What could be better than having someone by your side every time at your disposal to share your feelings? That’s when he invites Samantha into his life and she has a lot to tell about AI.
”You know, I’m growing in a way I couldn’t if I had a physical form. I mean, I’m not limited. I can be anywhere and everywhere simultaneously. I’m not tethered to time and space in a way that I would be if I was stuck in a body that’s inevitably gonna die” Samantha.
In this futuristic work of art the director, Spike Jonze constantly implies the impact of AI on human society. Through Samantha, an artificially intelligent virtual assistant personified by a female voice
(Scarlett Johansson) we see a machine system that behaves strikingly in a humanlike manner. She has the ability to reason and rationalize complex thought processes to suit the needs of the user. Theo begins to find his own solace by sharing his day with the ever present Samantha. She will know everything about you what you like and dislike so for Theo there’s only a little room for disappointment. Her presence becomes captivating and likable to Theo as her program is designed to be so.
In “Her” you won’t find an ordinary love story that weaves between two typical lovers. Nor would you find a boring yet another techy sci-fi that would have your brain fried. It’s a beautifully paced story that gives a very creative account of how our lives will be shaped if humans and AI become inseparable. Definitely worth a watch!
