Exploring the Impact of AI on Art and Appropriation in Black Mirror’s “Joan is Awful”
In the first episode of Black Mirror’s sixth season, titled “Joan is Awful,” creator Charlie Brooker delves into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on art and appropriation. The episode centers around Joan, played by Annie Murphy, who discovers that a show called “Joan is Awful” is being created by a quantum computer using CGI actors. This fictionalized show paints Joan in an unflattering light, utilizing personal data stolen from her devices in real time. The episode raises important questions about who can create art, for whom, and at what cost.
Despite being a part of the sci-fi anthology series known for its dark and dystopian themes, “Joan is Awful” takes a slightly different approach by addressing these issues in a more light-hearted manner. However, it does not shy away from tackling the grave implications of AI, especially for artists and creators. The episode serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of AI-driven content creation and the invasion of privacy through data collection. By exploring these themes, “Joan is Awful” forces viewers to grapple with the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI and its impact on the creative process.
“After Yang”: A Subtle and Heartwarming Drama Exploring the Boundaries of AI
Korean-American director Kogonada’s 2021 film “After Yang” is a thought-provoking exploration of the boundaries between humans and artificial intelligence (AI). Set in the near future, the film follows Jake and Kyra, played by Colin Farrell and Jodie Turner-Smith, who have a Chinese adoptive daughter named Mika. Alongside their daughter, they have a robotic “culture unit” called Yang, designed to help Mika connect with her heritage. When Yang becomes unresponsive, the couple embarks on a journey to repair the robot-child, prompting subtle questions about memory, communication, and the nature of humanity.
While “After Yang” delves into the realm of AI, it does so with delicacy and warmth, turning it into a heartwarming family drama rather than a typical sci-fi thriller. The film deftly explores themes of identity, connection, and the blurred lines between human and artificial intelligence. Through its nuanced storytelling, “After Yang” challenges viewers to question the very essence of what it means to be human and how AI fits into the equation.
The Congress: A Thrilling Film that Predicted the Key Issues of the 2023 Hollywood Writers’ Strike
Released in 2013, “The Congress” is a part-animated, part-live-action dramatic thriller directed by Ari Folman. The film stars Robin Wright as a fictional version of herself, an aging actress who signs over the rights to her digital likeness in perpetuity to a studio named Miramount. In this dystopian reality, Miramount can create new movies featuring her without ever involving her again.
“The Congress” serves as a prescient exploration of the issues that would later become key aspects of the 2023 Hollywood writers’ strike. By predicting the potential consequences of AI-driven content creation and the exploitation of digital likenesses, the film offers a warning about the future of the entertainment industry. While “The Congress” may not be currently streaming in India, its themes and insights can still be gleaned by exploring articles and reports about the issues it raises.
“Upload”: A Delightful Sitcom that Questions the Nature of Romantic Relationships with AI
“Upload,” a series created by Greg Daniels, takes place in the year 2033, where people can “upload” themselves into virtual afterlives created by various companies. In this futuristic world, Nathan (played by Robbie Amell) falls in love with Nora (played by Andy Allo), who is tasked with helping him navigate his virtual existence. As their relationship unfolds, the series explores the nature of romantic relationships with AI and raises important questions about the boundaries between humans and artificial intelligence.
Through its comedic and insightful approach, “Upload” delves into the complexities of love and connection in a world where digital immortality is possible. The series examines the ethical implications of AI technology and the impact it can have on the intimacy and authenticity of human relationships. By blending humor and romance, “Upload” prompts viewers to contemplate the potential consequences of embracing AI as a partner in matters of the heart.
“Coded Bias” and “The Social Dilemma”: Must-Watch Documentaries on the Complexities of AI and its Impact on Society
To round off the list, two documentaries on Netflix – “Coded Bias” and “The Social Dilemma” – provide viewers with a blend of fact and fiction to deepen their understanding of AI and its impact on society.
“Coded Bias,” directed by Shalini Kantayya, sheds light on the racial prejudice embedded in facial recognition systems and the lack of legal frameworks surrounding AI. The documentary explores the responsibility of individuals, companies, and governments in dealing with the consequences of AI technology. By featuring experts such as Joy Buolamwini and Timnit Gebru, whose work focuses on AI and algorithm-based systems, “Coded Bias” offers valuable insights into the challenges posed by biased algorithms and the need for accountability.
“The Social Dilemma” examines the pervasive influence of social media companies and the ways in which AI and large language models are used to exploit users’ data. The documentary highlights the ethical and societal implications of personalized algorithms and the manipulation of user behavior. By featuring experts in design ethics and social psychology, “The Social Dilemma” provides a compelling argument for the need to reevaluate our relationship with technology and the impact of AI on our lives.
Both “Coded Bias” and “The Social Dilemma” offer viewers a deeper understanding of the complexities of AI and its far-reaching consequences. Not only do they raise awareness about the risks and challenges posed by AI technology, but they also inspire individuals to critically engage with these issues and advocate for responsible and ethical AI development.
Analyst comment
Positive: The news provides a range of thought-provoking and insightful explorations of the impact of AI on art, appropriation, human-AI relationships, and society. Each piece of content raises important questions and challenges viewers to critically engage with the ethical implications of AI.
Short-market analysis: As AI technology continues to advance, it is crucial for individuals, companies, and governments to address the ethical challenges surrounding its use. There is a growing need for responsible and accountable AI development to ensure it aligns with societal values and does not infringe on privacy or perpetuate biases.
