How does AI in science fiction shape our understanding of its real-world potential? Join Maryrose Lyons and tech journalist Niall Kitson as they delve into iconic sci-fi portrayals of AI, from The Matrix and Ready Player One to Black Mirror and Star Trek. Together, they explore how these fictional narratives influence perceptions of AI ethics, consciousness, and its use for good and cautionary tales like autonomous drones and unregulated AI companions.

Discover insights into the crossroads of imagination and reality, and how safeguards like the EU AI Act could define AI's societal impact. Perfect for sci-fi fans, tech lovers, and anyone curious about where AI might take us next.

Nial's AI-inspired Christmas watch-list:

Amazon Prime

Ready Player One (2018) – A thrilling adventure set in a VR universe where AI plays a pivotal role in shaping humanity's future.

The Matrix (1999) – The iconic story of a dystopian world controlled by AI and the fight to break free.

Demon Seed (1977) – A 1970s cult classic about an AI developing unsettling human desires for domesticity and family.

Her (2013) – A lonely writer forms a surprising connection with “Samantha,” an advanced AI with emotional depth.

Marjorie Prime (2017) – A reflective exploration of memory and identity, featuring holographic AI recreations of loved ones.

Netflix

Black Mirror (2011) (Metalhead & Be Right Back) – Dark, thought-provoking takes on AI’s potential to shape life and loss.

Star Trek: Voyager (1995) – Classic sci-fi featuring The Doctor, a holographic AI exploring sentience and humanity.

Disney+

Aliens (1986) – Sci-fi horror where AI in the form of androids proves both helpful and terrifying.

Star Wars (1977) – A galaxy of droids and AI entities playing critical roles in epic battles and personal quests.

BBC

Rossum's Universal Robots (1921) – The play that coined the term “robot,” exploring AI's origins and its potential rebellion.

YouTube

I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream (1967) – A haunting adaptation of the classic story about an omnipotent AI punishing the last remnants of humanity.

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