You may not visibly see the main character’s love interest, but you will surprisingly fall in love with “Her.”
In a futuristic world, technology is exceedingly developed and utilized. A new piece of programming is developed that becomes both interactive and engaging to a lonely and divorced middle-aged man named Theodore Twombly (played by Joaquin Phoenix). This operating system, named Samantha, assists Theodore in daily life and Theodore overtime unexpectedly falls in love with Samantha. This movie brings you along their love story and into the world of heightened personal technology.
It is a very unique movie idea but nonetheless exceptionally made. Director Spike Jonze really crafted a script that showcases the vulnerability of being in love. Theodore is deeply isolated and someone, or something, saves him from his rut. The characters were open to the audience as no emotion was held back. In many of their conversations, they speak with no filter and demonstrate goofy, honest love that will not be too foreign to the audience. This film uses technology to point out natural human intentions and behavior.
In the movie, love is described as being “like a form of socially acceptable insanity,” and this film demonstrates that point well. Jonze made the story very thought-provoking and audiences will find Theodore relatable.
It is such a simple storyline that somehow left me feeling happy and interested throughout, as the depth of both Theodore and the operating system Samantha are revealed. It was hard to believe that he falls in love with a computer operating system, but I was genuinely intrigued.
The camera acts as a fly on the wall as the only character we really get to witness is Theodore. Joaquin Phoenix does a fantastic job expressing emotions in his body language and face to help us really understand Samantha’s persona and impact on him. In an interview with ScreenSlam, Phoenix says that Samantha really helps Theodore find himself and reignites his passion to learn about the world.
I honestly couldn’t recommend this movie more. It isn’t a conventional movie, but it really explores love in an intriguing way. In a world today where technology is being personalized, the movie’s reality isn’t too far off.
The film received a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 183 reviews. This movie really speaks to all of us as we venture through life trying to connect with someone. “Her” just takes an uncommon example that is too interesting to pass up.. These types of movies don’t come around often and “Her” is definitely worth your time.