Trailer Link

Release Date:

December 18, 2013

Synopsis:

From IMDb: “A lonely writer develops an unlikely relationship with his newly-purchased operating system that’s designed to meet his every need.”

Poster: B

Review: There isn’t much to this poster, which is why my rating isn’t as high as it could be. Still, it’s a captivating image. It doesn’t say anything about the film, but that may not entirely matter.

Trailer: A- / B+

Review: The concept seems a bit overboard, but the execution of the trailer intimates that this drama will be nothing if not fascinating. The idea that a man could form a relationship with a computer AI is one that’s gaining traction among serious thinkers, making this seem like the right kind of movie at the right time.

This more expanded look at the film does make it seem like an unconventional romance, but the spontaneous recognition of the first trailer makes this reveal less interesting the second time around. It’s still an effective use of form and situation to sell the film, just not as interesting as were the unusual nature of it all new.

Oscar Prospects:

Spike Jonze isn’t beloved by the Academy and his films have had a minimalist presence at the Oscars. The film might earn a Best Original Screenplay nomination and Joaquin Phoenix might be a long shot nominee for Best Actor, but the film just doesn’t look like a major contender.

Revisions:

(August 11, 2013) Original
(December 8, 2013) New Trailer / New Release Date (changed from 11/20/13)