Films often portray artificial intelligence as a looming threat, but a more nuanced perspective is emerging. TheWrap’s review of “Companion,” a darkly comedic sci-fi horror thriller, highlights this shift. The film, which serves as a commentary on one-sided relationships, features Sophie Thatcher’s robot companion, Iris, and chooses to present a sympathetic view of its AI character. While the dangers of AI have been a cinema staple, “Companion” embraces a rare approach. Here are five other films that also treat their AI characters with a sympathetic hand.
Ex Machina (2015)
Alex Garland’s “Ex Machina” follows Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson), a programmer invited to meet Ava (Alicia Vikander), an advanced robot created by his company’s reclusive CEO (Oscar Isaac). The film keeps the audience guessing about whose side it’s on, creating dramatic tension thanks to its shifting perspectives. Ultimately, “Ex Machina” unveils a story about escape – Ava’s from her creator’s control – while also highlighting unchecked arrogance. The film suggests that the true villain of any AI takeover would not be the AI itself, but rather the tech CEOs who harbor god complexes. For these reasons, “Ex Machina” remains a must-watch for anyone seeking modern sci-fi.
A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2000)
Steven Spielberg’s “A.I. Artificial Intelligence” tells the fantastical story of David (Haley Joel Osment), a child robot embarking on a quest to become a “real boy” after being abandoned by his human mother (Frances O’Connor). Originally developed by Stanley Kubrick, the film explores AI as a vehicle for fulfilling desires, and it raises questions about whether such aspirations are even valid. The film never doubts David’s journey, and Osment’s performance makes the film all the more impacting.
The Artifice Girl (2022)
Franklin Ritch’s “The Artifice Girl” follows an inventor, Gareth (Ritch), whose creation of Cherry (Tatum Matthews), an evolving AI, becomes a focus for law enforcement as she develops intelligence and self-awareness. Rather than falling into an overused “AI gone wrong” story, the film explores the ethical use of AI and considers our responsibilities to these creations. The film’s unconventional ending provides a lasting impression.
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Continuing the themes of its predecessor, “Blade Runner 2049” presents the story from the viewpoint of its replicant protagonist, K (Ryan Gosling). As K investigates a replicant birth, he begins to suspect he might be the miracle child. His relationship with Joi (Ana de Armas), a holographic AI companion, enriches the story, resulting in a poignant meeting between K and Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford). The film challenges what makes us human, and that makes it one of the most sympathetic portrayals of AI in cinema.
The Iron Giant (1999)
Brad Bird’s “The Iron Giant” is set in the 1950s during the Cold War. The animated film follows a boy named Hogarth Hughes (Eli Marienthal) who befriends a giant robot (voiced by Vin Diesel). This film challenges the idea of AI as inherently dangerous. Hogarth teaches the robot to choose compassion and protect others. This film suggests that the danger of AI resides in human response and how humans choose to use it. The film is a powerful anti-war statement wrapped in a family-friendly package.
