In the near future, a lonely writer develops an unlikely relationship with an operating system designed to meet every need.

In 2013, this was Science Fiction. But is it still today?

AI-based operating systems and virtual assistants enable human-like linguistic communication and interaction in various areas of our lives. But what happens when virtuality and reality become increasingly intertwined and feelings develop between humans and machines? To explore this topic, we invite you to a screening of the film Her followed by a panel discussion. Data scientist Prof. Alexander Ecker, psychologist Dr. Vanessa Mitschke and philosopher Prof. Catrin Misselhorn will discuss the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence and its ethical challenges. The discussion will be hosted by Prof. Thomas Kneib.

About the film:

In Spike Jonze’s award winning movie Her, Academy Award Winner Joaquin Phoenix stars as the introverted and lonely Theodore, who writes personal and empathetic letters for other people professionally. In the final stages of his divorce, he purchases the world’s first artificially intelligent operating system. Theodore quickly finds himself drawn in with Samantha, the voice behind his new virtual assistant (voiced by Scarlett Johansson). As they start spending time together, they grow closer and closer and eventually find themselves in love. Samantha helps Theodore in ways others hadn't, but how does she help him deal with his inner conflict of being in love with an operating system? The film received more than 30 awards, among them an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for the best screenplay.

The film is shown in English with German subtitles. Entrance is free.