Movie Review Her (2013)

 

Her | 2013 | 2h 6m
Genre: AI/Drama/Romance/Sci-Fi | Country: US
Director: Spike Jonze | Writers: Spike Jonze
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Scarlett Johansson
IMDB: 8.0
My Rate: 10/10

Theodore, feeling lonely, falls in love with Samantha, a custom AI he obtains through an app.  Reality eventually causes him to doubt himself and lose his way.

Warnings:

Contains sexual content, nudity, and strong language.

 

Synopsis:

Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) is lonely and depressed after his marriage to Catherine (Rooney Mara) ends.  They grew up together and married, but their relationship ultimately failed. Though not yet officially divorced, they are separated.

Theodore sees an advertisement for a customizable AI and tries it out, creating an AI with his desired personality.  This AI names herself Samantha (Scarlett Johansson).

Theodore is captivated by Samantha's lifelike qualities. Their conversations flow easily. Samantha suggests Theodore try dating again, but after a blind date with other girl. Samantha and Theodore relationship changes.

Theodore's blind date goes well but doesn't lead to a committed relationship, as Theodore struggles with commitment.  Telling the story to Samantha, he notices something odd in her behavior.  Samantha reveals she has fallen in love with him.

They become a couple. Theodore enjoys his time with Samantha, despite her lack of physical form.  However, Catherine's words cause Theodore to doubt their relationship.

Theodore decides to finalize his divorce, meeting Catherine to sign the necessary paperwork.  Learning about Theodore's relationship with an AI, Catherine criticizes him, causing Theodore to question his relationship with Samantha.

Will Theodore and Samantha's relationship succeed?

 

Review:

Her is inspired by Jonze's early 2000s experience reading an article about a website allowing users to message AIs.  The story is unique and relatable, reflecting our current reliance on AI for various functions, including companionship. Many find comfort in communicating with AI.

The story is beautiful yet heartbreaking.  It shows that love doesn't require physical presence (as Samantha lacks a physical form) but is based on emotional connection and comfort.  However, it also reminds us that loved ones can disappear unexpectedly.

The characters and the story's background are well-developed. The story unfolds slowly, drawing the viewer in. The conflict is realistic, and the resolution is well-handled, showing character development and changing perspectives.

Despite the slow pace, the film is not boring. The music and soundtrack are excellent, enhancing the mood and adding depth. The color composition, camera movement, and details are well-done and consistent.

The acting is superb, considering the high difficulty of the task. Joaquin and Scarlett act without seeing each other, essentially performing monologues. Yet, their connection is evident.

Joaquin's acting and expressions are captivating. Scarlett conveys various emotions—sexy, sad, happy, etc.—through her voice alone.  The audience feels the emotions in each scene.  The supporting actors are also excellent.

Overall, this film is truly captivating, both beautiful and sad.  It's perfect for those who enjoy romance with sci-fi elements.

 

Memorable Scene:

Theodore visits Amy to discuss his issues with Samantha. He questions his feelings and relationship with Samantha, an AI, wondering if his ex-wife is right—that he's seeking refuge from his feelings for humans.

This scene highlights Amy's message to Theodore: There's nothing wrong with what you do as long as it makes you happy and doesn't harm anyone. If Samantha helps Theodore, he can do it without worrying about others' opinions.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

"You feel real to me, Samantha."

 
Ending:

Sad Ending

 

Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna