There is a certain comfort found in knowing that we can design personalities that appeal to us. Yet, there is a certain discomfort found in knowing that we can never actually touch this personality.
Her (2013) is an incredible film based around the concept of a man falling in love with his computer, OS1. However, OS1 is not just any computer, it is “the first artificially designed operating system. . .” The man, Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) is lonely, and clearly suffers from depression. As a soon-to-be divorcee, Theodore’s only passions are his job – as a letter writer – and playing video games. On the rare occasion does Theodore hang out with his neighbours, Amy and Charles.
When Theodore starts OS1 in his house, it quickly calibrates a system that would appeal to him; OS1 creates Samantha. Samantha and Theodore teach each other lessons; Samantha teaches Theodore how to love, and be happy again; whereas Theodore teaches Samantha about how his world works. It is a mutually beneficial relationship that results in Theodore falling in love with Samantha. This love spirals both Theodore and the viewer into series’ of intense emotions, like: doubt, sadness, empathy, joy, love, confusion.
This story seems unreal, but is it really? The upcoming technology in this film make the possibility of Her being a reality. That is what makes this film so emotionally pulling. There is a certain comfort found in knowing that we can design personalities that appeal to us. Yet, there is a certain discomfort found in knowing that we can never actually touch this personality. Spike Jonze’s film is breathtakingly beautiful because of its simplicity.
We’ve seen Joaquin Phoenix in other fantastic works: Gladiator, Walk The Line, Signs. He never fails to disappoint, and this film was not an exception. He played the role of the lonely, depressed man perfectly. His acting made the difference between an A film and a D film. His talent is shown in this film, acting without a partner, only monologues. If you don’t believe in the difficulty of acting the way Phoenix did for this film, go outside and try to have a conversation with a tree.
There is really only one word that comes to mind when describing Her (2013). Phenomenal. The plot in this film is like no other that I have ever seen. The expertise displayed by the entire cast is that of the highest calibre of acting. This film was definitely deserved of its Oscar nomination, and is a must-see.
