Tag Archives: spike jonze

Her: An emotional story of Life, relationships, & technology

Too me, Her made me reflect deeply on my own relationships as well as my relationship to technology. The world Jonze creates on film is one that is aesthetically very pleasing, but has an eerily somber mood to it. While the movie is set in a technologically advanced world, it is more about humanity. However, it does give us some insight into the reprocucions of the heavy interaction we have with technology. The movie doesn’t depict humans as having their faces buried in screens 24/7 as one may think, in fact, they may spend less time in front of screens than people currently. The world they show  sees technologies increased with interpersonal use, but seemingly not too much in its other uses. Theo’s phone has more of an accessory, feel to it (like a watch or necklace, although it’s not really a fashion choice) rather than something that is constantly being used like an iphone. This discrete feel is in contrast to much of the technology we use today that is quite apparent in its use.

Theo’s relationship with his OS happens so effortlessly in a way that kind of mirrors how all the technology works in the movie. The OS technology also gives a very deep personal feel to its users. This could be seen as a cautionary reminder as to how we use and interact with technology today. Theo seemingly thinks that his relationship & love with his OS is unique and special, but by the end he learns that she has relationships with thousands of other users and is “in love” with hundreds more. Theo is obviously crushed by this and it is very emotional and sad. Human relationship with technology is a popular topic of interest for many. This movie deals with this narrative and explores some of the pitfalls of it as well as some of the potential.

In conclusion, this movie has a very powerful message that is very much relevant to technology and society in contemporary life. Her made me take a hard look at my own relationship with technology as well as the relationships i (try and) maintain through it.

Her makes me sad in the best possible way

I’m pretty sure Her will be my favourite movie of all-time (not counting Star Wars) and while I was jazzed we could blog about it, I almost passed on the opportunity because I worried I wouldn’t do the film justice. Her deeply affected me. I saw it in theatres, came home, contemplated every relationship I’ve ever had, then cried. I’d like to think everyone has this experience.

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