There are many uncertainties about how AI will fit into our future. Technological advancements seem to be rapidly accelerating, raising questions about their significance in our lives. Director Alexander DeSouza’s short film Holo offers viewers a dystopian, Black Mirror-inspired look at what artificial intelligence’s future might look like, and it may not be what we expect.

Facing Your Past in the Future

Looking Glass Technologies is a pioneering, yet controversial, private technology company with an unusual business plan. They offer clients a service called HOLO, which is the ability to have an artificial encounter with a past relationship. Using futuristic facial technology and actors who do extensive in-depth research to embody the mannerisms of the person allows grieving clients the opportunity to come face-to-face with individuals from their past.

Claire (Morgan Kohan) uses this service to have the final word with her abusive late husband, Jared (Shane West). Dressed conservatively in a turtleneck and long skirt, Claire initially seems hesitant to face him. Once the session begins and technology turns on, she sees his hologram sitting across from her. Claire is taken aback, but determined to confront him to get closure and move on with her life.

Behind the scenes, Grey (Zelda Williams) is the role-playing actor embodying Jared. Knowing that Jared has an abusive past, with bruises and scars on Claire’s arm to prove it, Grey grows increasingly frustrated with the situation she finds herself in. She finds that playing an abuser is unethical, and decides she’s not going to be complicit any longer. Grey jeopardizes the session by breaking character, much to Claire and Looking Glass Technologies’ dismay.

Dystopian Sci-Fi Meets Complicated Moral Dilemma

Filmmaker Alexander DeSouza’s topic then poses a hot discussion in this indie sci-fi: can artificial interactions bring about real catharsis? Judging from this film, the answer lies in the grey area. This makes for lively and diverse conversation post-viewing, which will satisfy audiences who enjoy cerebral films with deep messages. Bringing this all to life are the incredible actors Morgan Kohan, Shane West, and Zelda Williams. Their on-screen time may be short, but their impact resonates. Additional standouts include Alexander Taylor’s darkly ominous score and Magali Lafleur’s stunning production design.

Takeaway

Is Holo a glimpse into the near future? This thought-provoking exploration into technology’s capabilities may seem like a distant dream, but DeSouza leaves us thinking this reality is closer than we think.