If you think the idea if falling in love with a computer, or more specifically, an Operating System (OS) is ridiculous then Her might change your mind. I love how realistic this situation feels in the film. Presented with the same scenario, can we all be so sure that it couldn't happen to us?
If you are reading this blog, then I am assuming that you know the plot of Her. Joaquin Phoenix plays Theodore Twombly, a separated (nearly divorced) man whose job is to "write" handwritten letters for people around the world. After seeing advertisements for a new operating system, OS1, Theodore decides to purchase it and install OS1 on his computer. This install will stretch to his phone as well. Yes...the future must be nice! After the install, he is introduced to Samantha, the new OS. It is worth noting that Samantha is voiced by Scarlett Johansson who almost deserves a Best Supporting Actress nomination. She gives an amazing performance and never appears on-screen. The connection Theodore and Samantha share is instant. Theodore's social life, or lack of, lends itself perfectly to an empty space for someone or something to fill. Her personality is very fun and Theodore immediately views her as a friend. It isn't long that this relationship turns into a romantic relationship and it seems only natural. This OS reads his e-mails, manages his calendars and knows his list of friends and contacts. She is fully submersed in his life by way of the camera on his phone. He walks around and keeps the phone in his shirt pocket and sticking out the top so she can see everything he sees. I think this is the real reason why this relationship seems so real. For all intents and purpose she is there with him. Together they commentate on these day to day happenings and these moments cause them to grow close to each other. From here the relationship has its common problems such as the end of the honeymoon phase and jealousy issues from both sides. When these instances happen, you feel like Theodore isn't crazy. You feel the jealousy just as he or Samantha does.
Don't expect me to tell you how this ends, but there some people who will read into the final shot and say "well, obviously the next thing that will happen is..." I am one of the people who will just say "it would be nice if 'this' happened next." Amy Adams has a small role, but the movie needs her to work. Her presence is just enough to give the movie another view to look in from. Like I stated above, watch this film and ask yourself if you were in Theodore's shoes, could you keep Samantha at a distance?
