The exploration of artificial intelligence in film is not a novel concept. Perhaps it has been such a popular topic because it leads humans to self-reflect on what exactly humanity entails. Two films come to mind when I think of modern films that prompt discussion on the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into society: Spike Jonze’s Her (2013) and Alex Garland’s Ex Machina (2014). Both films portray the dynamic relationship between humans and technology in similar, yet distinct ways. The two films do touch on the potential advantages of AI. However, both end on a pessimistic note, with Her and Ex Machina pointing out how the lack of a physical and mental sameness, respectively, can create turmoil.
Her seems to portray the relationship between AI and humans as adversely consuming. Though Samantha (AI) serves as an enhancement in Theodore’s (human) social life, she also acts as a barrier between Theodore and other human beings by replacing authentic social interaction. Throughout the film, the idea that humans are becoming increasingly isolated from their physical surroundings is emphasized through the usage of zooming. On multiple occasions, the camera will focus on a character and gradually zoom out to convey a sense of disconnection to the viewer. One particular scene in which this technique is employed is when Theodore talks to Samantha for the first time. As the two bond, the camera slowly zooms out, leaving Theodore and Samantha isolated in the center of the frame. This camera technique functions as a means of communicating the alienating effect of AI and its ramifications on the relationships between humans. Furthermore, in Her, relationships with AI lack one of the most fundamental elements of intimacy: physical closeness. This aspect of intimacy is emphasized when Theodore meets with Catherine to sign divorce papers. Upon seeing each other, the very first action the two take is to embrace one another – an act that is impossible in the relationship between Theodore and Samantha. During Theodore and Catherine’s conversation, a shot-reverse-shot technique is employed to highlight the authentic face-to-face exchange that is occurring—such as is missing in Theodore and Samantha’s relationship. As Catherine signs the divorce papers, a montage reveals moments that the two shared when they were in a relationship. All of the memories depict the two hugging, kissing, and touching; they also reveal what is lacking in Theodore and Samantha’s relationship. The emphasis on the physical nature of Theodore and Catherine’s relationship serves to point out the deficiencies in AI/human relationships. Additionally, the meeting between Catherine and Theodore suggests that AI can be used to escape genuine human relationships that demand more of an investment. Catherine confronts Theodore about not being able to handle human emotions, which consequently prompts Theodore to question the authenticity of his relationship with Samantha. Thus, the sequence underscores the issue of AI acting as a replacement for real, physical relationships between human beings.
Despite showcasing the negative aspects of AI, Her does suggest that AI can also serve a positive role in a human’s life. When dejected Theodore returns to his bed and recollects a failed date for Samantha, the AI acts as confidant and offers consolation. It is therapeutic for Theodore to discuss his feelings with Samantha, and he cherishes their increasingly intimate bond. Despite their different forms, Theodore and Samantha are able connect in a seemingly genuine manner. A close-up of Theodore’s face is used in this scene to convey intimacy, even though a physical form of Samantha is absent.
A similar narrative arc can be found in Ex Machina. Like Her, the film begins with a cold gray-scale color palette and depicts a highly machine-dominated world as isolating and impersonal. Caleb’s entrance into Nathan’s advanced estate is daunting; the camera follows Caleb from a distance as he interacts with machines, until finally reaching another human (Nathan) in the depths of the overwhelming structure. Caleb and Ava’s initial exchange is also characterized as distant. The two characters are physically separated by glass, and the two faces are not shown in the same frame. As the film progresses, we see how Ava and Caleb (AI and human) become closer. The meetings between Caleb and Ava are depicted as becoming more intimate, with the camera positioned to show both faces in the same shot. Meanwhile, Caleb and Nathan’s relationship (human and human) deteriorates, while Caleb becomes suspicious that Nathan is the “enemy”.
Similar to how Her depicts the protagonist confiding in AI, Caleb discusses his negative feelings toward Nathan and begins to plot with Ava – in a sense, switching sides. The emotional progression of the plot leads us to empathize with her character while wondering how AI can be used in a moral manner to create a positive influence.
Ultimately, Ex Machina indicates that the possession of a human form may not necessarily translate into cognitive closeness between humans and AI. Ava’s “inhumane” betrayal of Caleb’s trust towards the end of the film suggests that AI’s lack of human consciousness may have problematic implications for humanity. Both Her and Ex Machina create an interesting dichotomy between AI’s capability to foster connection and disconnection. However, the two films have pessimistic conclusions, with the AI transcending the humans and leaving the protagonists’ lives incomplete.
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