One Line Review: A haunting, soul-crushing American sci-fi/romance film released in 2014, about an introverted writer and an Artificial Intelligence software, that provides a hard-hitting glimpse into the future of humanity.
YouTube Trailer Her
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson (Leads)
Directed by: Spike Jonze
Release Date: 14 February 2014
What’s it About?
Ever imagined what our lives could possibly look like in say, 3010? Set in the postmodern, not-so-distant future, Her makes for an intense, bizarre but undeniably thought-provoking film.
A melange of romance, and drama within the overarching theme of science fiction, it won an average rating of 8.5/10.
“Her” remains one of the most engaging and genuinely provocative movies you’re likely to see this year, and definitely a challenging but not inapt date movie.
~ Glenn Kenny
Personal rating: 8/10
Plot/Story Line
A reserved, sensitive, and introverted Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix), is a writer in L.A, who earns his bread and butter by penning personal letters for people from around the world.
After a crushing divorce from the girl whom he was convinced was the love of his life – Theodore’s world is turned upside down with the arrival of a novel artificial intelligence operating system.
Think Siri, but fifteen times more human. Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johansson), the operating system, is no ordinary software. Besides the ordinary odd jobs she helps Theodore with, like help with arranging his letters, and chores at home – she grows to become his confidante, his best friend.
She gives him advice on his intimate relationships, cracks witty jokes and even helps with what to write in his letters. She may not be physically tangible, but her warm, seductive, captivating voice and almost-human consciousness prove enough for Theodore to eventually fall in love with Samantha.
Theodore’s gauche-ness coupled with Samantha’s self-assuredness and confidence makes for an unusual but somehow, also a perfect pairing.
What’s to Like/Dislike?
Performances
Personally, one aspect of the movie that stands out the most is arguably the exceptional acting by Joaquin Phoenix. The casting choice couldn’t have been better!
Joaquim’s stellar portrayal of the character of Theodore, the intense rush of emotions that are at play as he finds himself following in love with Samantha – is visceral.
His distinctive sincerity not only comes through but ensures that the viewer becomes invested in his character and his story. Watching his performance feels like the equivalent of a warm hug.
Given the fact that he was the sole protagonist of the film, without the physical presence of his lover – one can only imagine the challenges endured to express those range of emotions to practically an inanimate Samantha, and he does it with tremendous charm.
Casting Scarlet Johansson as the voice of Samantha proves to be a fantastic choice. Relying solely on her voice throughout the film, her enticing and seductive, but also playful and emotive modulation provides such an interesting depth to her dynamics with Theodore and the film as a whole.
Script
The film can admittedly be a little bit of a drag in the first half of the film. It took some conscious pushing through, for me to get to the good bits. This may also be why many viewers may find it a snooze initially. But once you persist and get to the good bits, it sucks you right in.
Opinion
Overall, I believe this film was incredibly insightful; especially because a scenario like this is not entirely improbable in the distant future.
Going beyond the sci-fi and futuristic premise, I also loved that it touches on some existential and philosophical questions about what it means to be ‘human’ at all; the confusing interplay between the need for emotional intimacy, and the simultaneous need for social isolation.
I’d recommend Her to anyone looking for a surreal, captivating cinematic experience. One that encompasses love, and one that confronts the larger questions; along with some stellar performances.
