Over the past five decades, artificial intelligence (AI) has been a recurring theme in the world of cinema. From the iconic HAL 9000 in “2001: A Space Odyssey” to the thought-provoking “Her,” filmmakers have explored various facets of AI, its impact on society, and the blurred lines between man and machine. With advancements in real-world AI technology, these films now offer viewers a unique perspective on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
AI on the Silver Screen
“Her” (2013)
Spike Jonze’s “Her” takes on a new dimension in the era of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT. The film, set in a future where humans develop emotional connections with AI-powered virtual assistants, strikes a chord with those who regularly interact with LLMs. The story of Theodore and Samantha feels eerily relatable, as it explores the nuances of human-AI relationships.
“M3Gan” (2022)
As one of the most recent entries in the AI genre, “M3Gan” delves into themes like Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) gone rogue, the outsourcing of emotional care to AI, and the dangers of AI surveillance and manipulation. It serves as a cautionary tale about the unchecked growth of AI and its ethical implications.
“2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968)
Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece introduced the world to HAL 9000, an AI antagonist that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. The film’s portrayal of AI as a potentially sinister force remains relevant today, reminding us of the ethical and existential questions surrounding intelligent machines.
“I, Robot” (2004)
“I, Robot” may not fully capture Isaac Asimov’s intricate exploration of robotics ethics, but it raises important questions about human-machine collaboration, AI governance, and the rights of AI entities once they achieve emotional intelligence. It serves as a thought-provoking examination of AI’s role in society.
“Minority Report” (2002)
While set in a futuristic world, “Minority Report” resonates with today’s reality as AI is increasingly used for surveillance and law enforcement. The film’s exploration of predictive technology and the potential for wrongful arrests based on AI identification highlights the ethical concerns surrounding AI-powered decision-making.
“Blade Runner” (1982) and “Blade Runner 2049” (2017)
The “Blade Runner” films put the Turing Test to the ultimate challenge: can an AI pass for human? These movies explore the blurred boundaries between humans and replicants, raising philosophical questions about identity and consciousness. The legacy of Alan Turing’s question, “Can machines think?” continues in these cinematic classics.
“The Terminator” (1984) and “Terminator 2” (1991)
While “The Terminator” franchise is known for its dystopian take on AI, it also offers insights into man-machine relationships and machine learning. Watching the Terminator adapt and converse in “Terminator 2” may feel familiar to those who have interacted with AI models like ChatGPT. Skynet, the ultimate rogue AI, remains a cautionary tale.
“Moon” (2009)
“Duncan Jones’s “Moon” represents a shift in AI-themed films, moving away from flashy blockbusters to a more cerebral exploration of AI’s reasoning and empathy. The film portrays the internal struggle of an AI caught between human reasoning and corporate compliance. It offers a tense and thought-provoking dialogue between man and machine.
“Ex Machina” (2015)
“Ex Machina” presents a captivating examination of AI consciousness and ethics. As a programmer tests the limits of an incredibly realistic android’s ability to pass the Turing Test, the film raises questions about the nature of consciousness and the ethical treatment of AI entities. It’s a dark and beautifully crafted exploration of AI’s potential.
“The Artifice Girl” (2022)
Despite flying under the radar, “The Artifice Girl” stands out as a film that reflects the evolving landscape of AI. In a world where AI literacy is growing, the movie tells the story of Cherry, a virtual chatbot turned real-world entity. It tackles issues related to generative AI and its implications, making it relevant in today’s AI-driven world.
Source: https://www.cryptopolitan.com/the-evolution-of-ai-in-cinema/