In today’s world, it’s nearly impossible to go a day without relying on AI.
From running medical diagnostics to operating smart homes, artificial intelligence makes our lives easier by taking on tedious and challenging tasks, both in the workplace and at home.
Thus, it’s no surprise that artificial intelligence has woven itself into pop culture, featuring prominently in countless movies and shows. Dive into the world of robots, sentient dolls, and cyborg agents with these ten movies and shows about AI.
The Matrix (1999)
Directed by the Wachowskis, “The Matrix” is a science fiction film that tells the story of Neo, a computer hacker who learns that his reality is a simulation controlled by AI machines. Following this discovery, Neo joins a group of rebels and undergoes intense training to free the world from its digital shackles.
The film raises questions about our existence and the true nature of consciousness. “The Matrix” is considered one of the most iconic science fiction films and has inspired many movies and shows since its release in 1999.
M3GAN (2022)
“M3GAN” is an AI-themed horror-thriller that showcases the potential dark side of artificial intelligence. Directed by Gerard Johnstone, the movie revolves around M3GAN, a lifelike doll created by roboticist Gemma. The doll’s behavior takes a sinister turn when she is given to Gemma’s 8-year-old niece, with whom she forms an unhealthy attachment.
As M3GAN’s actions escalate, the film delves into a chilling exploration of the boundaries between human and artificial intelligence. This film blends technology and terror and explores the ethical implications of creating AI entities that mimic human emotions.
Transcendence (2014)
Directed by Wally Pfister, “Transcendence” tells the story of brilliant scientist Dr. Will Caster, who explores the idea of merging human consciousness with AI. After an assassination attempt by anti-AI extremists, Caster’s consciousness is uploaded into a supercomputer. In his new state, Caster starts to become power-hungry, and concerns arise about the implications of an all-powerful AI entity.
As Caster’s digital existence expands, “Transcendence” also delves into the complexities of human emotion. The film raises questions about the potential consequences of merging human consciousness with AI and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the pursuit of technological transcendence.
Ex-Machina (2014)
“Ex Machina,” directed by Alex Garland, follows Caleb Smith, a young programmer who is invited to administer the Turing test to a highly advanced humanoid robot named Ava. As Caleb interacts with Ava, he becomes increasingly captivated by her intelligence and human-like qualities. However, he also uncovers unsettling truths about the reason Ava was created.
Like many of the films in this list, “Ex-Machina” is all about the intricate relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. The film also explores other themes like free will, empathy, and trust.
Her (2013)
Directed by Spike Jonze, “Her” is set in the near future and centers on Theodore Twombly, a sensitive and introverted writer who is struggling to pull his life together after a painful divorce. Theodore’s life takes a turn when he purchases a highly advanced operating system, which he names Samantha. He and Samantha quickly fall into a deep and romantic relationship that is ultimately doomed to fail.
“Her” explores the concept of love and intimacy between humans and AI. The film challenges preconceived notions about the potential for such a relationship while delving into subjects such as loneliness and connection. The film has won several awards, including Best Screenplay award at the 71st Golden Globe Awards.
Westworld (2016-2022)
“Westworld,” created by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, is a science fiction series set in a futuristic-themed park modeled after the Wild West and inhabited by lifelike AI hosts. The park allows wealthy guests to indulge their every desire, including engaging in morally ambiguous and often violent adventures. As the hosts operate on sophisticated artificial intelligence, they gradually gain sentience.
The show challenges viewers to grapple with complex moral dilemmas and philosophical questions surrounding the rights and agency of artificial beings.
Love, death, and robots (2019)
Created by Tim Miller and David Fincher, “Love, Death & Robots” is a collection of animated short films that explores different facets of science fiction, fantasy, and artificial intelligence. Episodes range from six minutes to 21 minutes long. While some episodes were created in the U.S., others were produced by studios in South Korea, Hungary, Russia, and other countries around the world.
While some episodes are set in future dystopias, others explore alternate histories, a zombie apocalypse, or fantasy worlds. Each episode also showcases a unique animation style. The series is known for its stunning visuals and its booming popularity, with a higher demand than 90.4% of all Action and Adventure titles in the U.S.
Black Mirror (2011 – present day)
“Black Mirror,” created by Charlie Brooker, is often described as a present-day “Twilight Zone.” Each self-contained episode is a dark and thought-provoking portrayal of the potential consequences of technology. These episodes often center on new technology, such as immersive video games, robotic dolls, futuristic dating programs, and devices to capture memories.
Many of the show’s plotlines are based on fears that people already have about the evolving nature of AI. For example, one episode dwells on the fear that AI is always watching, while another portrays the downfall of a woman stuck in a social media-obsessed world.
Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Directed by Mamoru Oshii, “Ghost in the Shell” is a cyberpunk anime film based on a manga. The film is centered on Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg agent working for the government’s counter-terrorism unit. Major Kusanagi’s journey to uncover a cyber-terrorist known as the Puppet Master leads to philosophical contemplations about the nature of the human soul within a cybernetic body.
“Ghost in the Shell” is celebrated for its stunning animation, complex narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of the implications of advanced artificial intelligence on human existence. The film’s visuals also revolutionized the cyberpunk genre, influencing artists exploring the fusion of humanity and technology.
Humans (2015-2018)
“Humans” is a science fiction series based on the Swedish drama “Real Humans.” The show portrays a world with highly advanced technology, including human-like robots known as “synths.” These robots take on a variety of jobs, such as caregivers for the elderly, domestic servers, and emotional support companions.
as the series progresses, some Synths gain self-awareness, leading to complex ethical dilemmas about their rights, autonomy, and their place in society alongside humans. This development adds layers of intrigue and tension to the narrative as characters grapple with the evolving nature of the relationship between humans and Synths.
Cyberthreats in the real world
While we highly doubt you’ll be attacked by a robotic doll or fall in love with an advanced AI system anytime soon, there are some cyber threats you should be aware of.
One wrong move while browsing the internet may open the door to cyber attackers looking to take over your identity, access your private information, or launch damaging malware onto your device.
Unfortunately, these cyberattacks aren’t rare. On average, there is a hacker attack every 39 seconds, affecting one in three Americans each year. Here are a couple of tips to stay safe on the internet:
- Install Antivirus Software: Having reputable antivirus software installed on your devices adds layer of protection against viruses, malware, and other cyber threats.
- Use Ad Blockers: Ad blockers can help prevent malicious ads from appearing on websites, reducing the risk of inadvertently clicking on harmful content.
- Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of emails, messages, or websites that impersonate legitimate sources to trick you into revealing personal information.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, providing an added layer of security and privacy. Install VPN app to encrypt your real location and prevent cybercriminals from using it against you.
Future on film
Robots are the future. Or so it seems in these ten movies and shows about AI.
From the dystopian future presented in “The Matrix” to the romantic connection portrayed in “Her,” each film offers a unique perspective on the potential relationships between humanity and AI.
These movies and shows not only entertain but also compel us to contemplate the ethical, moral, and existential questions surrounding artificial intelligence and our reliance on the internet.