Sensitive, strange and sad.

Rating: 8/10 (19 March 2014)

The idea of falling in love with a computer operating system probably seems outrageous and ridiculous, but in Her, Spike Jonze does a pretty good job at showing how this could soon enter the realms of possibility.
Imagine; an artificially intelligent operating system, programmed to meet your every need, as well as possessing a friendly 'personality' and even an apparent consciousness. This is exactly what Joaquin Phoenix' character Theodore experiences and through his heart-warming, delicate performance, encourages you to empathise with this extraordinary situation, even if you might not understand or accept it.
Scarlett Johansson's performance as Samantha, the voice of the operating system, is also far deeper than one would expect from a computer. She manages to convey an entire individuality within that piece of software.
Although the complexity of adult relationships is depicted in an honest and refreshing way, it's difficult not to get sucked into Theodore's melancholic state and on occasion the film feels slow and empty. However, this reflects the character's bouts of loneliness and serves in highlighting the joy Samantha brings him. If anything, it's a reminder to cherish the positive relationships we have with significant others.
The concept of falling head-over-heels for a computer is absurd. But as we continue to let our real lives merge with the virtual world, how long will it be until our dependence on technology slips into full on immersion? Even romantically – as it seems to be accepted in this projection of the not-too-distant future.
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