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Her (2013)
Through 2023 Lenses, This is Pure Cringe
Judging 'Her' in the context of modern AI developments may not seem fair, but it's a necessary perspective. Often recommended when discussing AI, this film has inadvertently contributed to misconceptions about technologies like ChatGPT. While enjoyable as alternative fiction, 'Her' shouldn't be cited as an accurate representation of AI's workings or hypothetical dangers. For those seeking a more plausible albeit still fictional exploration of the subject, 'Ex Machina' may be a better option. Nevertheless, 'Her' offers an emotionally resonant narrative and thought-provoking themes on human connection, making it an engaging watch for those more interested in its philosophical questions rather than its technological accuracy.
This review was written by a human (me) who then asked GPT-4 to make it more concise and accurate. The future is now, my friends.
Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets (2023)
This could have been about my family
I'm still reeling after watching the whole series (accidentally, it just happened). I was raised very similarly to the Duggars and we were aware of their show, although ironically our family was so strict we didn't have access to the their show (no cable, only PBS and CBS). I'm the oldest of 8 and could have easily ended up like Josh. It was such a disservice to shelter us so completely and not explain "the birds and the bees". It was treated as the most taboo subject and anything remotely related was heavily censored and suppressed. Any abuse in our community was swept under the rug. My father was "the king if the house" and anything he ordered was on the level of God ordering it. His rules were absolute and could not be questioned. I'm now 31 and no longer in that belief system. I've carried guilt and trauma for many years and I'm very sad that this BS still goes on around the world. People use the Bible and Christianity as a cover or smokescreen to justify and hide a tremendous amount of evil.
The Adventures of Pluto Nash (2002)
Refreshingly Underrated Space Gem!
In 2002, Eddie Murphy delivered one of his most polarizing performances in the science-fiction comedy "The Adventures of Pluto Nash". Hailed by some as a major misstep, and universally panned by critics, the film has since developed a cult following of those who believe it to be a misunderstood gem.
Murphy's eccentric style was in full display in his portrayal of Pluto Nash, an ex-smuggler turned nightclub owner on the moon. With an intricately woven narrative that dives into themes of economic manipulation and artificial intelligence, the film boldly confronts complex topics through a comedic lens.
"The Adventures of Pluto Nash" indeed suffered from a severe disconnect with audiences at the time of its release, making it a significant box-office flop. However, the film's ambitious approach to comedy and storytelling, set against the backdrop of a futuristic moon colony, sets it apart from the traditional comedy fare.
One of the film's defining features is its refusal to take itself too seriously. From the tongue-in-cheek future tech to the moon's multicultural denizens to the unabashedly campy special effects, it all adds up to a film that's more farce than hardcore sci-fi, which may have rubbed some viewers the wrong way upon its initial release.
However, the audience is rewarded when they approach the film with an open mind, free from preconceived notions. Despite its commercial failure, "The Adventures of Pluto Nash" features a standout comedic performance from Eddie Murphy and a unique blend of humor and sci-fi that is truly its own.
In conclusion, "The Adventures of Pluto Nash" is an underrated and delightful film that balances its eccentric comedy with unexpected depth. Its initial box office failure should not dissuade potential viewers from giving it a chance. Over time, it may just prove to be a hidden treasure in Murphy's illustrious filmography.
Ex Machina (2014)
9 Years Later, It's No Longer Science Fiction
2023 will be remembered as the year of AI. Seeing this film again after so many years is quite the experience. Until this year, this film's plot seemed so far fetched and nothing but a distant pipedream.
With the unprecedented emergence of GPT-4 and other ML and LLMs, we're very close to realizing the inevitable rise and dominance of artificial intelligence.
While true AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) may be a few years away, it's exciting to witness the birth of a new era for mankind. Many new opportunities will become available to billions of people, fundamentally changing much of the way we see and interact with the world around us and unlock new dimensions of computation never thought possible. I choose to remain optimistic that more good will be done than evil with this burgeoning technology.
It's hard to say anything about this film that hasn't been said a thousand times before, but suffice to say it's an interesting imagining of a topic many people at the time thought was at least 50 to 100 years away. I could not have predicted that we would be this close less than 10 years later. I welcome are AI overlords, god knows they'll be better than the muppets currently running governments like bumbling buffoons...
Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)
Loved it more than Avatar 1
No Spoilers! This film would have probably have been rated R if it came out a few years ago, and I'm not complaining! Seriously though, i was surprised so much blood and gore (and female nipples) could still get a PG-13 rating.
One thing that also surprised me, was that even at 3+ hours, it didn't feel too long or bloated. The pacing and character arcs were excellent, and i got emotional a few times, and by the end was in tears. I think personal life experience will factor greatly into how each person responds to the film, and if you've experienced loss of a close friend or family member, it just hits much harder.
It's probably important to watch the first film before this one if you haven't, since there's many call backs to various plot points of the first film. The graphics are obviously very impressive, especially when you realize that probably 80-90% of the shots/scenes are 100% CGI. Rendering and simulation technology sure has improved dramatically in past few years. The cinematography is outstanding, as is the music and every other part of the production. The acting is also excellent good, and i personally think every role was perfectly cast. The story to me wasn't as superficial or shallow as some early critics had suggested. I assume they went in jaded and determined to hate the film or had some preconceived notions about what to expect. I went in with minimal expectations and was blown away. I'll definitely be watching this film again!
Baba Yaga (1973)
Absolute Gem
This film is incredible and the surreal aspects resemble somthing from David Lynch. the cinematography and editing are insane for the time with some impressive sequences. the English dubbing isn't horrible but it'd probably be just as good with subtitles and the original language.
Attack of the Southern Fried Zombies (2017)
If you like Zomedies, watch this!!!
I'm a little bised since I filmed this movie.
It has been compared to films like Tucker and Dale vs Evil (a favorite of mine). There's many hidden reverences to classic zombie and horror films and a few modern pop culture references too. There's a lot I can't discuss here, including budget, but suffice to say, it was mostly a fantastic experience and the cast and crew truly bonded.
The chemistry between the cast is pretty rare. Everyone was best friends within a day of meeting. Random trivia: this movie was filmed almost 100% in reverse order. We filmed the ending scenes first. Guess what?! We didn't hire a script supervisor (not my call). Contenuity is pretty decent considering that huge issue. This movie isn't for everyone, but it'll find an audience. Stick through to the ending and I'm pretty sure you'll be glad you did. It might even become a cult classic eventually!
Jonathan Hammond
-cinematographer of Attack of the Southern Fried Zombies