By Taylor Vermillion |Staff Writer|
“Transcendence” is a film that shows the unbelievable advances that tech-scientists Will Castor (Johnny Depp), and his wife, Evelyn (Rebecca Hall) have achieved, including the technological uploading of human consciousness into a network-connected hard drive.
“Transcendence” made its box office debut on April 10 and brought in $10.9 million during its release.
The earnings show that the film shouldn’t be considered a box office smash.
Past films have addressed the powerful nature of computers, and whether or not their intelligence will someday surpass our own.
“Transcendence” presents a new element that leaves the audience questioning whether a human brain could be uploaded to a computer.
The story centers around a woman’s love for her husband; a love that burns so deeply, she is willing to violate the ethical boundaries of humanity and upload his consciousness, in an attempt to make him immortal.
We’ve all heard the cliche saying, “whatever is put on the internet is there forever, but the film poses the question: can a human live forever online and if so, can technology really transcend human intelligence?
The anti-technology extremists didn’t seem to think so, and they certainly presented a compelling reasoning for their beliefs.
Immortality for one person may cause the death of everyone else, argues screenwriter Jack Paglen.
CSUSB student Hannah Kylean said, “I was a little hesitant to see the movie, as I didn’t really understand its premise from all the trailers, but I’m really happy I saw it. It’s insane to think that this may be possible in a few years.”
Another movie goer, Michael Rosario said, “It really puts into perspective how connected the world is through the Internet. It really makes you realize that there is technology that organizations have, that we don’t even comprehend yet. It’s kind of scary.”
“Transcendence” marks the directorial debut of Wally Pfister, who is primarily known for his cinematography.
His resumé includes films such as the “Batman Begins” trilogy, “Inception” and “Moneyball.”
Pfister’s cinematography talents certainly prevailed in this film.
The action sequences, including several explosions, intense gun fights, and phenomenal achievement in computer generated imagery, aided to the believability of the film.
Depp’s performance as Dr. Will Castor also contributed to the greatness of the film.
His dark, yet intelligent portrayal of a conscious computer attempts to bridge the gap between human intelligence and technology.
“Transcendance” won’t be in theaters for long, so get your tickets now and prepare for an unnerving look at the technological accomplishments that could be in our near future.
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