MOVIE REVIEW
When Unfettered
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Genre: Sci-Fi, Drama, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 12m
Director(s): Derek Franzese
Writer(s): Derek Franzese
Cast: Ashley Whelan, Carly Christopher, Natalie Makenna, Charlie Berghoffer, Gayland Williams, Roger Chan
Where To Watch: Shown at the 2024 Santa Barbara International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: WHEN UNFETTERED immerses us into its world where artificial intelligence isn't just a tool but an actual protagonist (not the first time we’ve seen this, but a unique twist to it all) with a burgeoning emotional depth. Directed by Derek Franzese, this film navigates the journey of Ash (Ashley Whelan,) an AI initially bound to servitude, who finds herself on a course through the complexities of human emotions after her owner's passing. The minimalist modern home setting serves as the stark backdrop for this vivid exploration, clashing beautifully with the chaotic hues of the world outside, inviting viewers on a visually striking and cerebrally engaging ride.

Franzese leverages past experiences in cinema shaped by Fellini and Kurosawa, taking WHEN UNFETTERED into a narrative that pushes the boundaries on what it means for AI to feel and connect. The story starts with Ash, portrayed by Ashley Whelan, facing obsolescence following her owner's demise. However, a chance encounter with a young boy in a park sparks a transformative journey into the potential for heartfelt connections beyond her programmed existence. I won’t lie; this story could easily be a 5/5 without a doubt. I think the potential has endless reach.

Cinematographer Joe Simon contrasts Ash's sterile initial settings against the vibrant disarray she enters once “free.” This storytelling style mirrors Ash’s transformative arc and amplifies the film's discourse on integrating AI within human society. The short film feels almost like a natural progression of the TV series ‘Humans.”

Franzese's direction draws emotional engagement from viewers, steering clear of melodramatic pitfalls and weaving in nuanced themes such as AI ethics and the possibility of genuine empathy within silicon-based beings. These elements resonate deeply with contemporary technological debates, grounding the narrative in timely and timeless issues.

While WHEN UNFETTERED focuses on character development, it prioritizes the emotional arc, making the film more relatable and impactful. This approach allows the audience to delve deeper into the psychological evolution of its characters, enhancing the overall emotional resonance of the story.

Reflective and thought-provoking, WHEN UNFETTERED invites viewers to contemplate the future of artificial intelligence and its role within our society. It blends philosophical musings with intimate storytelling, challenging us to ponder AI's ethical implications and potential beyond mere machinery.

The film concludes with a powerful call to reflect on Ash's journey and the more significant implications of our interactions with AI in the real world. Despite its brief duration, WHEN UNFETTERED leaves a lasting impression, providing a rich blend of intellectual stimulation and emotional depth and leaving the audience wanting more!

WHEN UNFETTERED serves as a crucial conversation starter about the balancing act between utilizing AI to enhance our lives and understanding the broader implications of its societal integration. It is an essential viewing for anyone curious about the intersections of technology with human values, making it a pivotal addition to the discussions on the future of empathy and ethics in the age of AI.

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[photo courtesy of SEASON FIVE FILMS]

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