CINEMATIC CYBORGS
Humans & Technology on Screen
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Cinematic Cyborgs: Humans & Technology on Screen takes a closer look at the many ways film has predicted and prophesied the intersection of human culture and AI technologies by examining the various portrayals across a number of contemporary films - such as Bicentennial Man, Her, Ex Machina, Chappie, and more. During the course, students will analyze how "new" technology has been positioned in society - for good, for evil - and explore themes of identity, agency, embodiment, and the blurring boundaries between human and machine.
COURSE LESSONS
1 - INTRODUCTION
Welcome to CIN 329 - Cinematic Cyborgs: Human & Technology on Screen! Click the "Start Now" button to review the course syllabus and schedule as well as familiarize yourself with the various lessons and assignments!
2 - BICENTENNIAL MAN (1999)
Consider what it means to be "Transhuman" through a close watch of the 1999 film Bicentennial Man and contemplate what the future of humanity might look like as technology replaces organic matter.
3 - UPGRADE (2018)
In contrast to Bicentennial Man (1999), Upgrade (2018) tells the story of a human who is "upgraded" by technology and asks you to consider the ethical dilemma of human augmentation.
4 - HER (2013)
Contemplate what it means to be "human" after watching the 2013 film Her and consider how the love, loneliness, and connection are portrayed in a world mediated by technology.
5 - EX MACHINA (2014)
Consider what "Artificial Consciousness" might look like through a close watch of the 2014 thriller Ex Machina and consider the role gender and power play in this thought-provoking piece.
6 - CHAPPIE (2015)
After watching the 2015 action film Chappie, consider how contemporary issues, such as poverty, law enforcement, and surveillance, are processed through the consciousness of artificial intelligence.
7 - BLADE RUNNER
Experience the cult-classic film Blade Runner (1982) as well as the sequel Blade Runner 2049 (2017), two of the most iconic films about cyborgs and dystopian futures and consider how they contribute to the conversation.
8 - SHORT FILMS
Watch a collection of short independent films that showcase a series of alternative realities in which advanced technology and humans co-exist, ever complicating our existence.
9 - THE MATRIX
Watch the 1999 mega-hit The Matrix and consider the idea of an advanced civilization whereby humans serve as a source of power for AGI machines.
10 - THE FUTURE
Using your knowledge of transhumanism and cinema, choose a film from the recommended screening list and write an analytical essay that highlights a new and interesting meaning from the film.
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