What's Happening?
The latest installment in the Tron series, 'Tron: Ares,' continues the franchise's exploration of artificial intelligence within a techno-industrialist-futurist aesthetic. The film, featuring music by Nine Inch Nails, is set almost entirely at night and includes nods to the early 1980s milieu of the original Tron film. While the movie attempts to delve into themes of what makes us human in the context of AI, it primarily focuses on the visual spectacle and action sequences. The film's portrayal of AI aligns with Hollywood's traditional depiction of thinking machines as potential threats, rather than exploring the more nuanced reality of AI as seen in everyday applications like large language models.
Why It's Important?
The portrayal of AI in 'Tron: Ares' reflects broader societal perceptions and fears about artificial intelligence. Hollywood's depiction of AI as a potential threat can influence public opinion and understanding of AI technologies. While the film does not address the everyday applications of AI, such as large language models, it highlights the entertainment industry's role in shaping narratives around technology. This can impact how audiences perceive AI's role in society, potentially affecting public policy and innovation in AI development.
What's Next?
As 'Tron: Ares' hits theaters, it may spark discussions about the representation of AI in media and its implications for real-world technology. The film's release could lead to increased interest in AI-themed entertainment, prompting filmmakers to explore more nuanced portrayals of AI. Additionally, the movie's reception may influence future projects within the Tron franchise, potentially encouraging creators to delve deeper into the complexities of AI beyond its depiction as a threat.
Beyond the Headlines
The film's focus on AI as a threat rather than exploring its everyday applications raises questions about the ethical implications of AI portrayal in media. By emphasizing AI's potential for violence, the movie overlooks the more immediate dangers of AI, such as its ability to tempt users to skip critical thinking. This highlights the need for more accurate and responsible representations of AI in entertainment, which could contribute to a more informed public discourse on the technology's role in society.
