From The Matrix to The Terminator - 6 times Hollywood has sparked our fascination for Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We have always been captivated by visions of a future brimming with artificial intelligence (AI), flying cars, and other fantastical innovations. However, apart from the innovations of Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana, Bard, and ChatGPT, while standing in 2023, we realise that most of these dreams remain just – dreams.

Hence, let's delve into the realm of Hollywood cinema and explore films that have captured our imaginations with their depictions of AI and the futures we once envisioned. These cinematic creations have transported us to worlds where artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role, shaping our perceptions and sparking conversations about the technological advancements that await us.

The Matrix film series

Released in 1999, this film franchise explores the perilous depths of artificial intelligence (AI). It chronicles the development of a simulated reality, known as the Matrix, that traps humanity and grants supreme power to a superintelligent AI. At the heart of the narrative is Neo, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, a computer programmer, who uncovers the unsettling truth about his existence and the world around him.

The Matrix franchise has four films – The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, and The Matrix Resurrections.

Her

Seeking solace amidst the emotional turmoil of his impending divorce, Theodore Twombly, a solitary writer, acquires an advanced artificial intelligence system designed to assist him in his craft. Intrigued by the AI's remarkable capacity to learn and evolve, Theodore finds himself drawn to its captivating personality and seeks a deeper connection beyond their professional arrangement. As their interactions deepen, Theodore's initial fascination transforms into an unexpected and profound love. Her was released in 2013, and the titular role of Theodore was played by Joaquin Phoenix.

Prometheus

Driven by an enigmatic clue alluding to humanity's genesis, a team of intrepid explorers embarks on a perilous voyage into the cosmos' most uncharted depths. Their individual aspirations fuel their unwavering resolve as they venture into the abyss. However, their preconceived notions are shattered when they stumble upon an inconceivable discovery, forever altering their perception of existence. Released in 2012, the film stars David Fassbender, Charlize Theron, and Noomi Rapace.

Blade Runner film series

In an oppressive future of Los Angeles, Rick Deckard, a former blade runner, is reluctantly drawn back into the dark world of replicant hunting by the relentless Gaff and his superior, Bryant. Tasked with neutralizing a quartet of rogue replicants that have escaped from the off-world colonies, Deckard embarks on a perilous mission, shadowed by doubts and haunted by his past. Amidst the neon-lit labyrinth of the city, Deckard's path intersects with Rachel, a captivating yet enigmatic replicant, whose presence stirs a profound empathy within him, blurring the lines between hunter and hunted.

Blade Runner film franchise has five films – Blade Runner, 2036: Nexus Dawn, 2048: Nowhere To Run, Blade Runner Black Out 2022, and Blade Runner 2049.

Oblivion

Amidst the ruins of a world decimated by an alien conflict, Jack Harper, a solitary drone technician, grapples with the enigma of his existence following the rescue of a woman who haunts his dreams. As the haunting familiarity of her presence unsettles his reality, Jack embarks on a quest to unravel the truth behind his shattered memories and the mysterious woman who mirrors them. Released in 2013, the titular role of Jack Harper is played by Tom Cruise.

The Terminator film series

In a thrilling race against time, a relentless cyborg assassin, the Terminator, is dispatched from the dystopian future of 2029 to 1984, tasked with the elimination of Sarah Connor, a young woman whose unborn son holds the key to humanity's salvation. To safeguard Sarah's destiny, Kyle Reese, a brave soldier from the future resistance, is sent back in time to protect her. Kyle reveals the impending rise of Skynet, an autonomous artificial intelligence system that will trigger a devastating nuclear war, plunging humanity into a post-apocalyptic era. The titular role of terminator is played by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The Terminator franchise has six films – The Terminator, Terminator 2: Judgement Day, Terminator 3: Rose of the Machines, Terminator Salvation, Terminator Genisys, and Terminator: Dark Fate.