From Black Widow To An Evolving AI: My Favourite Scarlett Johansson Film || CineTV Contest #63

I don't often like to see science fiction and romance together but a fine mix of the two genres usually makes an interesting watch and gives the plot some reality. That's what Her delivered. This American sci-fi romance featured an ensemble cast which included Joaquin Phoenix as the lead, Scarlett Johansson as an AI virtual assistant, Rooney Mara, Olivia Wilde, Amy Adams and Christ Pratt.

The setting of the film is in 2025 which I believe is like a foreshadowing of the times we are in now—the beginning of the reign of artificial intelligence. In this film, the protagonist, Theodore, falls in love with his AI assistant simply because it can adapt and evolve.

I like the plot of this film as it calls to question and perhaps some reflection on what it means to be human, how we handle our emotions and whether we can teach AIs to simulate them. It also prepares viewers for a near future where the possibility of AIs evolving even to the point of simulating physical intimacy. Okay, that may seem weird but like I said, it's a possibility.

I'll say the director, Spike Jonze, weaved this story perfectly, eliciting some empathy for Theodore in an AI-dominated era. Scarlet Johansson and Joaquin Phoenix's performances were touching, convincing and excellent. Theodore opened up and laid himself bare for Samantha more than he did with the humans around him including his ex-wife and the woman he went on a date with. Samantha became that soothing, understanding and loving voice in his ears who not only listens but also offers advice. I believe that can be addictive and make a person lose touch with reality.

The relationship between Theodore and Samantha is very weird, like who forms an attachment to a device but the two actors pull it off superbly such that I began to root for them along the way. When these characters said goodbye at the point when AIs were leaving, my heart broke alongside Theodore's. All it took to transform an ordinary guy into an extraordinary and confident one is a virtual assistant. I think when AIs become common all over the world, the Theodore and Samantha kind of relationship will be a reality then (if it's not already so now).

Overall, Her is a heartwarming sci-fi romance film worth watching. Jonze did a fantastic job constructing a world where unusual love stories take place. I may see Scarlett Johansson as a badass sometimes but I'm reminded she has a softer side, thanks to this film.

What other female actresses do you think we should do for the next contest like this?

I enjoy watching female actresses acting the part of the badass heroine in action movies. There are many cool female action stars to choose from but I'll suggest Charlize Theron, Gal Gadot, Kate Beckinsale, Milla Jovovich and Olga Kurylenko.

Where there's a watch-worthy action film to be made, it's any of these ladies I would wish to see in it!

This is my entry to the Cine TV Contest #63 - Favorite Scarlett Johansson Movie. To participate, just click on the link and it will take you straight to the post. The deadline is 6th June, 2023, 11:59 PM, UTC.

Thanks for visiting my blog.

^{Images are screenshots from the movie}