Despite technological innovations, the artificial intelligence (AI) concept remains fascinating. It’s interesting how we’ve come so far in watching movies that depict the ideas of science fiction (sci-fi) and fictional characters becoming a reality. Yet, we are unaware of the portrayal of AI influencing all facets of our lives and the real world.
AI has been and will always be the central theme in sci-fi movies. In fact, the introduction of AI and robots in cinema dates back to 1927 with the groundbreaking film Metropolis. This trend shows no signs of slowing down; filmmakers will keep pushing the boundaries of innovation in AI-themed movies.
10 Best Artificial Intelligence Movies To Watch
Here, we’ve compiled some of the best AI movies worth your time.
1. The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
The “Terminator” is one of my personal favorites. This movie depicts a cyborg assassin who is on a mission to kill Sarah Connor. Kyle Reese, a soldier, is sent to protect her and her unborn child (this child is said to lead a human resistance against machines). This movie is a blend of action and sci-fi elements demonstrating the battle between man and machine.
In Terminator 2, you’ll see a reprogrammed Terminator sent to protect John Connor (the unborn child in Terminator), from an advanced Terminator, T-1000. This sequel showcases intense action elements and the strong bond between Connor and the Terminator.
Movie Length: The Terminator 1984 (1h 47 min) Terminator 2: Judgment Day (2h 17 min)
2. The Matrix (1999)
The Matrix! This has to be one of the best AI movies anyone has seen. This movie takes you into a dark dystopian world where what seems reality is just a giant computer simulation created by machines to control humans.
Neo, a computer hacker learns about the nature of “The Matrix” and gets to know that he’s destined to free humanity. The movie takes you into a world where you start questioning everything, what’s real and unreal. A mix of thrilling action, philosophy, and amazing visual effects is what this movie is all about.
Movie Length: 2h 16min
3. WALL-E (2008)
Wall-E is a cute animated movie showcasing how Earth would be – a deserted and desolate wasteland due to pollution. This movie is played by a character (a trash compacting robot) called Wall-E, who was left behind on Earth to make a difference.
With time, Wall-E develops a feeling for Earth. The movie is all about humanity’s connection to nature, taking care of the planet, rekindling relationships, and never giving up hope, no matter what the circumstances.
Movie Length: 1h 38min
4. Westworld (1973)
If you’ve watched Jurrasic Park, you shouldn’t miss Westworld by John Michael Crichton. Westworld is an absolute thriller and one of the best AI movies of all time. A sci-fi thriller, Westworld demonstrates a futuristic amusement park for guests to indulge in their wildest fantasies in themed environments – Romanworld, Westworld, and Medievalworld.
The park is filled with lifelike androids called “hosts.” These hosts have been designed to cater to the guest’s needs. This movie is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.
Movie Length: 1h 28min
5. Short Circuit (1986)
Short Circuit from 1986 is a comedy flick about a robot who later realizes he’s alive after a lightning strike. The robot named Johnny 5 escapes from a lab and embarks on a journey to experience the outside world.
Through his journey, he meets an animal lover named Stephanie who teaches him where to draw the line between humans and robots.
Movie Length: 1h 38min
6. Her (2013)
Her by Spike Jonze depicts how loneliness can make you fall in love with an AI virtual assistant. Sound weird? It’s not how it sounds. It’s a typical love story about a guy falling head over heels with his virtual AI assistant. The movie strikes deep connections and unfolds unconventional relationships.
This movie explores the themes of love, connection, and the complexities of human relationships.
Movie Length: 2h 6min
7. Ex Machina (2014)
Ex Machina is an intense mind-bender and psychological thriller by Alex Garland. In this movie, the protagonist is a human-robot dynamic that will take you through a journey of questions – who is in control? The creator or the creation?
This movie highlights the ethical implications of creating sentient beings that may further lead to taking complete control and power.
Movie Length: 1h 50min
8. Transcendence (2014)
Transcendence, a sci-fi thriller movie takes you through the journey of an AI researcher, Dr. Will Caster. Before being poisoned, how Dr. Will uploads his consciousness into a supercomputer. This movie takes you through the implications of AI, and the limits of technology, but also warns you about the worse things that can happen when things get out of hand.
It’s a wake-up call to everyone who thinks there won’t be any moral implications if we keep moving forward the way we do without looking back.
Movie Length: 1h 59min
9. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) is a superhero film that follows the Avengers as they face a new threat in the form of Ultron, an AI created by Tony Stark and Bruce Banner. This movie showcases a fight against the bad guys to protect the world.
Ultron, the AI villain is the opponent against Avengers. He is on a mission to bring peace to the world. However, the methods he uses can only bring chaos. If you’re a Marvel fan, this movie is just for you. Avengers will teach you the consciousness of not trying to play God with technology.
Movie Length: 2h 21min
10. I, Robot (2004)
I, Robot from 2004 demonstrates how our future will likely be if AI is integrated into our daily lives. The plot of the story thickens when a detective investigates a murder that seemingly involves a robot.
As the detective investigates further, he unfolds a larger conspiracy that questions the nature of free will and the potential for AI to rebel against its programming. Want to know how the movie ends? Watch the trailer for a quick highlight.
Movie Length: 1h 55min
Conclusion
The article highlights some of the best AI movies of all time. The representation of AI and robots in movies is an eye-opener for those not willing to draw a line between humans and AI. These movies depict hope, fear, and ethical concerns as AI advances and humans become AI-dependent.
What’s your take on AI? Tell us in the comment section!
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