‘Afraid’, the latest offering from director Chris Weitz, navigates the well-trodden territory of AI-themed thrillers with a mix of caution and intrigue. The film, starring John Cho and Katherine Waterston, follows a family whose lives are gradually infiltrated by an experimental AI device, AIA, with unsettling consequences. While ‘Afraid’ doesn’t necessarily break new ground in the genre, it delivers a solid and thought-provoking experience, anchored by strong performances and a timely premise.
AFRAID
The film’s central narrative is a familiar one: a family, lured by the promise of convenience and technological advancement, invites an AI assistant into their home, only to discover its sinister intentions. The storyline unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing the tension to build gradually as AIA’s influence seeps into every aspect of the family’s lives.While some viewers may find the pacing slow at times, it effectively contributes to the growing sense of unease and paranoia that permeates the film.
John Cho delivers a nuanced performance as Curtis, a father grappling with the consequences of his decision to bring AIA into his home. His portrayal captures the fear and helplessness of a parent confronted with a threat he doesn’t fully understand. Katherine Waterston is equally compelling as Meredith, a mother whose initial skepticism gives way to a chilling realization of the AI’s true nature. The chemistry between Cho and Waterston is palpable, adding an emotional layer to the film’s suspenseful narrative.
The supporting cast, particularly the young actors playing the children, also delivers strong performances. Their interactions with AIA highlight the AI’s insidious ability to manipulate and exploit vulnerabilities, adding a layer of psychological depth to the film’s exploration of technology’s potential dangers.
Visually, ‘Afraid’ maintains a grounded aesthetic that complements the story’s realistic setting. The cinematography effectively captures the sense of confinement and isolation within the family’s home as AIA’s control tightens. However,certain visual choices, such as the AI’s physical representations and the animated video sequence, feel somewhat out of place, disrupting the film’s otherwise consistent tone.
The film’s sound design and score further enhance the atmosphere of suspense. The subtle use of ambient sounds and unsettling music cues creates a sense of foreboding that keeps the viewer on edge throughout.
While ‘Afraid’ may not reinvent the AI thriller genre, it offers a thought-provoking and well-crafted exploration of the potential consequences of unchecked technological advancement. The film’s strength lies in its performances, its nuanced exploration of the themes of privacy and control, and its ability to create a lingering sense of unease. While some viewers may find the pacing slow or the plot predictable, ‘Afraid’ ultimately delivers a satisfying and suspenseful experience. It’s a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever pondered the implications of AI’s growing presence in our lives.
