During the last semester in my RHET class, we were analysing Japanese cinema and we came across this short film, Automation, which shows the effect of artificial intelligence on human life and its limitations.
Plot Summary
Automation stars Hiro, an introverted worker, who is usually companionless. Due to his desperation for companionship, Hiro purchases a female robot maid.The robot was not given a name, but was referred to as CRM 02 (Comfort Robot). The robot cleans his home, makes his bed, prepared his clothes, knows a variety of recipes from around the world, etc. The same sequence of events happened everyday. There’s nothing more a busy worker would desire; thus, he appreciated the robot and started to fall in love. Hiro then goes out and buys her a bouquet of flowers. To his surprise, the CRM 02 failed to show any sign of emotions. As he sat next to her one evening, he laid her on the couch as kissed her; but again, the robot gave no response. Disappointedly, Hiro turned his back and walked out. The next morning, he wrapped CRM 02 in its package. On his way to work, he met a woman, bought her flowers, and experienced her appreciation.
(Find a couple of stills from the film attached below)
Analysis
Although the robot might have been capable to enhance some fun in his existence and make his life smoother by doing his chores, it seemed to isolate him even further. This is just a microcosm of what we experience in the world today. There is no doubt that technology does have its benefits, but, it should not replace human interaction. Technology will never have the ability to replace warmth and care humans have. It is simply a mere creation.
This is the first time Hiro sees CRM 02 after he
unpackages her.
This is the scene where Hiro gives CRM 02 the flowers. Focus on the difference in their facial expressions.
1099 Cyborgs, Avatars, and Everyday life 2019 