The Pod Generation: Exploring Artificial Lives
In Sophie Barthes’ thought-provoking film, “The Pod Generation,” the boundaries between artificial and natural existence are carefully brought to the forefront. The movie raises intriguing questions about how our technological advancements impact our evolving lives. Successfully crafting a vision of a future New York City where technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life. Rachel, portrayed by Emilia Clarke, and Aly, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, embody a contemporary couple navigating this technologically driven world. The Pod Generation confronts the ever-present influence of technology. It also flirts with the question of how much it intersects with the things we do every day.
“The Pod Generation” kicks off with a strong start. It introduces sedate but interesting inquiries about our evolutionary journey as technology propels us forward. Offering a glimpse into a possible future that feels strikingly plausible, Barthes’ portrayal of a society blends perfectly with how and when technology could serve us. A provocative reminder of the growing role that tech plays in our lives.
In this dystopian future, the couple’s daily needs are entirely catered to by an advanced artificial intelligence system. From choosing their meals to suggesting their outfits and planning their activities. The A.I. manages every aspect of their lives. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Privacy is a thing of the past and the couple’s productivity both at work and at home is closely monitored by intelligent surveillance systems. For Aly, a botanist, this means his work is restricted to a high-tech location where he can reintroduce the idea of plants to a generation that has nothing to do with them.
The Tech Parents Guide to Babies
Even Rachel’s therapy sessions are devoid of human interaction, replaced instead by a computerized therapist. The advancements in technology also extend to the realm of reproduction. In the Pod Generation, couples have the option to use external wombs for having children. This novel approach promises increased productivity for both parents. In a world where women have sole custody of a growing fetus, the idea is introduced as a freeing exercise in being able to have your cake and eat it too.
Initially, the tech company, although sterile and welcoming has many advantages. It offers meticulous control over the baby’s environment, including the nutrients they receive and the music they hear while inside the electronic womb. Aly is skeptical. As a naturist Aly, at first, is firmly against embracing this technologically-driven version of parenthood.
However, as time passes, he begins to see the potential benefits and eventually embraces this futuristic vision of raising children. He becomes even more involved in parenting and nourishing this porous shell in other ways. Aly takes it to the park and reads to it. He attaches the accessory strap and lovingly carries the baby to work in a sling at the front of his body.
Meanwhile, Rachel decidedly falters in connecting with her unborn child. But then she begins having strange dreams and finds herself fascinated with naturally pregnant women. When she tries her hand and bringing the baby to her workplace she discovers a much less accepting scenario of her “pregnant” status.
Watch The Pod Generation 2023 Trailer
There are a couple of less-than-enthusiastic reviews for The Pod Generation. However, the subdued satirical comedic beats combined with the eventual conclusion here left me more than satisfied. Clever dialogue and clear storytelling with overtures of well-executed cinematography of an advanced world made this a film I was happy to have watched. The Pod Generation will commence its theatrical run on August 11, 2023.
The Pod Generation is rated
3.5 babies in detachable wombs out of 5
