The Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence - A Cinematic Perspective, 14 weeks, ZOOM
S 2025

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just the realm of science fiction—it is rapidly transforming our world. From healthcare and finance to creative arts and military strategy, AI is shaping industries and daily life. “Narrow AI” already powers virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, fuels recommendation algorithms, and enables self-driving vehicles. As AI grows more advanced, experts speculate about the arrival of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)—machines that could think, learn, and reason like humans. Would AGI be a partner in solving humanity’s greatest challenges, or might it evolve beyond our control, reshaping society in unpredictable ways?

For decades, filmmakers have grappled with these questions, depicting AI as both a technological marvel and a potential existential threat. This 14-week discussion group will explore the promises and perils of AI through the lens of cinema. Each session will analyze a film that raises profound ethical, philosophical, and logistical questions about artificial intelligence—its impact on society, autonomy, consciousness, and human identity.

Through these films, we will discuss AI’s real-world implications, including its role in the workforce, interpersonal relationships, privacy, mental health, predictive policing, military applications, and the possibility of surpassing human intelligence. By engaging with these cinematic narratives, participants will gain a deeper understanding of AI’s potential, its limitations, and the challenges it presents.

As with any film-based SDG, there will be lots to talk about aside from the subject matter of the films. Discussions will touch on writing, directing, musical score, cinematography and special effects, as well as box office and profitability. Additional materials may be provided to enhance discussions, such as articles about the ethics of taking humans out of decisions to kill on the battlefield, or the implications of relationships between humans and chatbots.

Films

(Subject to change based on streaming availability and/or alternative suggestions. The list and order of presentation will be finalized at the pre-meeting.)

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) – HAL 9000 raises questions about machine intelligence, autonomy, and the fallibility of AI. 
2. Westworld (1973) – Examines AI’s potential for rebellion and the ethical implications of humanoid robots in entertainment.
3. Blade Runner (1982) – Explores what it means to be human and the blurred line between AI and organic life.
4. WarGames (1983) – Addresses the dangers of AI in military decision-making and unintended consequences.
5. The Terminator (1984) & Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) – Depicts an AI-driven apocalypse and the risks of unchecked AI evolution.
6. RoboCop (1987) – Investigates the merging of AI and humanity, corporate control over technology, and law enforcement ethics.
7. Ghost in the Shell (1995) – A philosophical examination of AI, cybernetics, and identity in a futuristic world.
8. The Matrix (1999) – Raises questions about AI control, simulated realities, and the nature of human consciousness.
9. A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) – Examines AI’s emotional capacity and its relationship with human beings.
10. Minority Report (2002) – Explores predictive AI and ethical concerns around preemptive justice.
11. I, Robot (2004) – Discusses Asimov’s laws of robotics and the moral dilemmas of AI.
12. Eva (2011) – A lesser known but thoughtful AI drama from Spain addressing efforts to instill human emotions in robots.
13. Her (2013) – Examines AI’s role in personal relationships and emotional companionship.
14. Ex Machina (2015) – A deep dive into AI consciousness, manipulation, and ethical responsibilities.
    

Areas and Topics for Discussions 

The Basics:    
    — Year of Release, Country and Language(s)
    — Producer, Director, Screenwriter(s), Cinematographer, Editor
    — Music/Composer    
    — The Cast
    — Awards