This is a unique and surprisingly relatable film.
It's set slightly in the future. Far enough ahead to feel futuristic, but not so far that you're wondering why everyone isn't flying around in hovercars or living on Mars. In fact, a lot of it feels more relevant today than it probably did when it was released.
At its heart, Her isn't really about artificial intelligence at all.
It's about loneliness.
Theodore is a guy who's a bit down in the dumps, struggling with relationships and searching for companionship. The AI side of the story is almost secondary. It's simply the vehicle used to explore how people connect with each other and what happens when those connections aren't quite enough.
Of course, it helps that the AI happens to be Scarlett Johansson's and not Clippy from Microsoft Office.
Joaquin Phoenix is brilliant as Theodore. The character reminded me of a slightly less nerdy Leonard Hofstadter from The Big Bang Theory. The sort of bloke you'd happily have a coffee with, but who you'd also gently encourage to leave the house occasionally.
What I liked most was how believable the whole thing felt. The technology might be futuristic, but the emotions aren't. Most people can relate to feeling lonely, wanting companionship or trying to fill a gap in their life.
The film asks some interesting questions about relationships, technology and human connection without ever feeling preachy.
It's thoughtful, funny, a little sad and occasionally uncomfortable.
In short, a guy falls in love with Siri and she dumps him.
4/5
