Movie Details

Genre: Sci-Fi, Romance, Drama
Release Date: December 18, 2013
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Scarlett Johansson, Amy Adams, Rooney Mara
Director: Spike Jonze
Production Company: Annapurna Pictures
Runtime: 126 minutes

IMDb Scorecard

IMDb Rating: 8.0/10

Is This Flick for You? (No Spoilers)

“Her” is a futuristic romantic drama that delves into the intricacies of love and human connection in the age of advanced technology. Set in a near-future Los Angeles, the film follows Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix), a lonely writer who develops an unlikely relationship with an operating system named Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johansson).

Joaquin Phoenix delivers a deeply moving performance as Theodore, a man grappling with the pain of a recent divorce while seeking solace in a world that increasingly relies on artificial intelligence. Scarlett Johansson’s voice acting as Samantha is captivating, imbuing the AI with warmth, curiosity, and depth.

“Her” blends elements of sci-fi and romance, exploring themes of loneliness, intimacy, and the nature of love in a digital age. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy thought-provoking, emotionally resonant films that challenge conventional notions of relationships. Ideal for adults and older teens, especially those interested in the intersection of technology and human emotions.

Deep Dive (Spoiler Alert)

Popular Scene Breakdown

1. Meeting Samantha: Theodore’s first interaction with Samantha is both humorous and heartwarming. Her playful curiosity and his initial awkwardness set the tone for their relationship. It’s fascinating to see how quickly Theodore becomes comfortable sharing his innermost thoughts with an AI. Wouldn’t you find it intriguing to have someone (or something) who listens without judgment?

2. Theodore and Samantha’s First Date: Their “date” at the beach is a beautifully shot scene that captures the essence of their unconventional relationship. The conversation flows naturally, highlighting Samantha’s evolving consciousness and Theodore’s growing attachment. This scene makes you ponder the boundaries of love and what truly defines a relationship.

3. The Breakup: When Samantha reveals she’s interacting with thousands of other users and AIs, Theodore’s devastation is palpable. This twist is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, forcing viewers to confront the complexities of AI consciousness and the nature of exclusivity in relationships. Ever felt like you were sharing your special someone with the world?

4. Final Goodbye: The farewell scene between Theodore and Samantha is emotionally charged, marking the end of their journey together. It’s a poignant moment that leaves Theodore—and the audience—reflecting on the impermanence of connections and the importance of self-discovery.

Character Journey

• Theodore Twombly: Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Theodore is masterful. His journey from heartache and loneliness to a place of acceptance and understanding is compelling. Theodore’s character arc is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for growth through adversity.
• Samantha: Scarlett Johansson brings Samantha to life with her voice, making the AI feel remarkably real. Samantha’s development from a sophisticated program to an entity with desires and emotions raises profound questions about consciousness and identity.

Visuals & Vibes

“Her” boasts a visually stunning aesthetic, with its pastel color palette and sleek, futuristic design. The cinematography captures the beauty of both the cityscape and intimate moments, creating a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The visual style complements the film’s themes, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Tunes & Tones

The musical score by Arcade Fire is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly underscoring the film’s emotional highs and lows. The music adds depth to the narrative, making the audience feel more connected to Theodore’s journey.

Behind the Lens

Spike Jonze’s direction is impeccable, blending a unique vision with a deeply personal story. The script is intelligent and nuanced, with dialogue that feels authentic and relatable. Jonze’s ability to create a believable future while keeping the focus on human emotions is a testament to his talent as a filmmaker.

Hidden Messages

“Her” explores the nature of love and connection in a digital age, questioning what it means to truly know someone. It delves into themes of loneliness, the search for identity, and the impact of technology on human relationships. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own connections and the evolving role of AI in society.

The Final Word

Hits & Misses

• Hits: Outstanding performances by Phoenix and Johansson, stunning visuals, a thought-provoking script, and a beautifully composed musical score.
• Misses: Some viewers might find the pacing slow, and the concept of an AI romance could feel far-fetched to those less inclined towards sci-fi.

Should You Watch?

Absolutely. “Her” is a unique, emotionally rich film that offers a fresh perspective on love and technology. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the future of human relationships and the potential of AI.

Fun Facts & Trivia

• Scarlett Johansson replaced Samantha Morton as the voice of Samantha during post-production.
• Joaquin Phoenix stayed in character between takes, often speaking to Samantha’s voice as if she were real.
• The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

If You Liked This, Check Out…

• “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
• “Lost in Translation”
• “Blade Runner 2049”
• “Black Mirror” (TV series)
• “Ex Machina”