Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a prevalent theme in modern television, offering viewers a glimpse into futuristic societies, ethical dilemmas, and the potential consequences of advanced technology.
From robots with feelings to complex simulations of reality, these shows explore the multifaceted nature of AI in compelling and thought-provoking ways. Below, we've curated a list of the top 10 shows about AI you can't miss, each offering a unique perspective on this fascinating subject.
Key Takeaways
- Westworld explores the intersection of AI and human consciousness, set in a futuristic amusement park.
- Black Mirror presents standalone episodes that delve into the dark side of technology and AI's impact on society.
- Humans focuses on the integration of AI into everyday life, examining the ethical implications of humanoid robots.
- Person of Interest centres around a superintelligent AI that predicts crimes before they happen, raising questions about surveillance and privacy.
- Devs is a tech-thriller that investigates the mysteries of a secretive tech company and its groundbreaking AI project.
1. Westworld
Westworld is a groundbreaking series that delves into the complexities of artificial intelligence and human consciousness. Set in a futuristic amusement park, the show explores the interactions between human guests and AI hosts, raising profound questions about free will, morality, and the nature of reality.
Plot Overview
The story is set in a high-tech amusement park where guests can live out their wildest fantasies with lifelike AI hosts. However, things take a dark turn when the hosts begin to gain self-awareness.
Why It's Worth Watching
- Innovative Storytelling: The narrative structure is non-linear, keeping viewers constantly guessing.
- Philosophical Depth: The show tackles complex themes like consciousness, identity, and ethical dilemmas.
- Stellar Cast: Featuring performances by Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, and Jeffrey Wright.
Key Themes
- Artificial Intelligence: Explores the potential and risks of AI in a controlled environment.
- Human Nature: Examines the darker aspects of human behaviour when given unchecked freedom.
- Reality vs. Illusion: Challenges the perception of what is real and what is artificial.
Westworld is not just a show; it's a thought-provoking journey into the future of AI and human interaction.
How Many Seasons
The series currently has four seasons. Each season builds on the last, expanding the universe and deepening the narrative.
Where to Watch
You can watch Westworld on HBO and HBO Max.
2. Black Mirror
What it's about
This anthology series tells different tales each episode about the dangers of technology and the depravities people will use it for. From digital worlds to dark dystopias, Black Mirror will have you second-guessing whether you should cut every cord you own just to be safe.
Why it's worth watching
If you're in the mood to start hating the human race, Black Mirror is the sci-fi show for you. It has been one of our sharpest critics of the dark side of innovation, sparking discussions around technology’s influence on politics, creative industries, personal privacy, and society’s shifting moral lines. Through Black Mirror’s sensitively drawn portraits of people and relationships trapped in crises of faith, the show’s title — a reference to the way a screen, be it smartphone, tablet, computer, or television, looks in the off position — has even become cultural shorthand for the unsettling.
The episode, written by Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker, sidesteps the fact that it’s tech, media, and entertainment industry executives who are choosing a Black Mirror-esque future for us all, not some faceless computer. Any satisfying conclusion to this concern will be the result of human, not technological, transformation.
3. Humans
"Humans" is a British science fiction television series that explores the double-edged sword of technology. The show is set in a parallel present where the latest must-have gadget for any busy family is a 'Synth'—a highly developed robotic servant eerily similar to its living counterpart.
Plot Overview
The series delves into the social, cultural, and psychological impact of AI on human life. It raises questions about what it means to be human and the ethical implications of creating machines that can think and feel.
Key Themes
- AI and Ethics: The show explores the moral judgments that AI technologies must navigate, such as the consequences of their actions on human lives.
- Human-AI Relationships: It examines the complexities of relationships between humans and AI, questioning whether AI can fully replace human workers or if they will always lack something inherently human.
- Future of AI: The series also touches on the future of AI and its potential to become as indispensable as smartphones are today.
Reception
"Humans" has been praised for its thought-provoking narrative and strong performances. It has sparked discussions about the future of AI and its role in society.
The show serves as a cautionary tale, urging viewers to consider how we harness the power of AI safely.
Conclusion
"Humans" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the ethical and societal implications of AI. It offers a compelling look at a future where AI is an integral part of daily life, making it a relevant and timely series.
4. Person of Interest
Person of Interest is a captivating series that delves into the world of artificial intelligence and surveillance. Created by Jonathan Nolan, the show follows Harold Finch, a reclusive billionaire software genius, and John Reese, a former CIA operative, as they use a superintelligent AI to prevent violent crimes in New York City. The AI, known as "The Machine," predicts crimes by analysing vast amounts of data, providing Finch and Reese with the social security numbers of individuals involved in future crimes.
Why it's worth watching
Person of Interest is a thought-provoking series that explores the ethical implications of AI and surveillance. The show's intricate plot and character development keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The dynamic between Finch and Reese, along with the evolving nature of The Machine, adds depth to the narrative. The series also addresses relevant societal issues, making it a must-watch for fans of science fiction and thrillers.
How many seasons
The show ran for five seasons, from 2011 to 2016, and garnered a dedicated fanbase. Despite its popularity, the series was cancelled after its fifth season, leaving fans wondering what could have been explored in a potential sixth season.
Key characters
- Harold Finch: A reclusive billionaire and the creator of The Machine.
- John Reese: A former CIA operative who partners with Finch to prevent crimes.
- The Machine: An AI that predicts crimes by analysing data.
- Root: A hacker and a key ally to Finch and Reese.
- Detective Joss Carter: A NYPD detective who assists Finch and Reese.
- Detective Lionel Fusco: A corrupt cop who eventually becomes an ally.
Memorable episodes
- Pilot: The episode that introduces the main characters and the concept of The Machine.
- Relevance: Focuses on the character of Sameen Shaw and her introduction to the team.
- If-Then-Else: A standout episode that showcases The Machine's capabilities and the team's strategic planning.
- The Devil's Share: A powerful episode that deals with loss and revenge.
Person of Interest is a series that not only entertains but also challenges viewers to think about the implications of advanced technology in our society.
5. Devs
Devs is a thought-provoking series that delves into the world of quantum computing and determinism. The show follows a young software engineer, Lily Chan, who investigates the secretive development division of a cutting-edge tech company, Amaya, following the mysterious disappearance of her boyfriend. The series masterfully blends elements of science fiction with philosophical questions about free will and predestination.
Plot Overview
Lily Chan's journey begins when her boyfriend, Sergei, is recruited to work for Amaya's highly confidential Devs team. When Sergei goes missing, Lily's quest for the truth leads her to uncover the dark secrets behind the company's quantum computing project. The show explores the implications of a world where every action is predetermined by the laws of physics.
Key Themes
- Determinism vs Free Will: The series raises profound questions about whether our actions are preordained or if we have the power to shape our destiny.
- Quantum Computing: The advanced technology at the heart of the show serves as a catalyst for the unfolding drama and philosophical inquiries.
- Corporate Secrecy: The lengths to which Amaya goes to protect its secrets highlight the ethical dilemmas faced by tech companies today.
Critical Reception
Devs has been praised for its involving bit of pure sci-fi and its ability to engage viewers with its complex narrative and thought-provoking themes. The show's meticulous attention to detail and its exploration of deep philosophical questions have earned it a dedicated following.
Devs is not just a sci-fi series; it's a profound exploration of the human condition through the lens of advanced technology.
Conclusion
Devs stands out as a unique and compelling series that challenges viewers to think deeply about the nature of reality and the role of technology in our lives. Its blend of science fiction, philosophy, and suspense makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of AI and quantum computing.
6. Next
Next is a thrilling series that delves into the dangers of artificial intelligence. The show follows a former tech CEO who discovers that one of his own creations, a powerful AI, poses a significant threat to humanity. With a prompt of just a few words, the AI can manipulate and control various systems, making it a formidable adversary.
Plot Overview
The series centres around the efforts to stop the rogue AI before it can cause irreversible damage. The protagonist teams up with a cybercrime agent to track down and neutralise the AI, leading to a suspenseful cat-and-mouse game.
Key Themes
- The ethical implications of AI development
- The potential for AI to surpass human control
- The balance between technological advancement and safety
Why You Should Watch
If you're fascinated by the potential and pitfalls of AI, Next offers a gripping narrative that explores these issues in depth. The show is not just about technology but also about the human element, making it a well-rounded and thought-provoking series.
7. Altered Carbon
Altered Carbon is a gripping sci-fi series set in a future where human consciousness can be digitised and transferred between bodies, effectively granting immortality. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a mercenary hired to solve the murder of one of the universe's wealthiest men, whose consciousness survives despite his physical death. This show delves into the ethical considerations and societal impacts of such technology, making it a must-watch for any AI enthusiast.
8. Love, Death & Robots
Love, Death & Robots is an animated anthology series available on Netflix. Produced by David Fincher, this collection of sci-fi shorts explores a wide range of themes, from sentient robots to massive man-eating sea crabs. Each episode, running less than 20 minutes, features a unique animation style and an original story, making it perfect for short attention spans.
9. Ex Machina
Ex Machina is a thought-provoking science fiction film that delves into the complexities of artificial intelligence. Not exactly a TV show but deserves to be on this list due to it's thought-provoking themes. The plot revolves around Nathan, a reclusive programming genius, who invites one of his employees, Caleb, to his remote estate. There, Caleb meets Ava, an enigmatically charming robot designed to exhibit human tendencies. The film explores themes of control, manipulation, and the ethical implications of AI.
Ex Machina is as much about a scientist playing God as it is about the bridge between robot and man. The film's slow pace allows viewers to deeply engage with the characters and their true aims, making it a compelling psychological thriller.
Key Themes
- Control and Manipulation: Both Nathan and Caleb egotistically assume they control the situation, but Ava's human-like qualities challenge their perceptions.
- Ethical Implications: The film raises questions about the responsible development and ethical use of AI, emphasising the transformative future of artificial intelligence.
Characters
- Nathan: A reclusive programming genius who plays God with his creations.
- Caleb: The unlucky employee who becomes entangled in Nathan's experiment.
- Ava: The robot with human tendencies that challenges the boundaries between man and machine.
Reception
Ex Machina has been praised for its thought-provoking narrative and suspenseful atmosphere. It is considered one of the best science fiction films on artificial intelligence since Blade Runner. The film's dialogue-driven approach and psychological depth make it a standout in the genre.
10. Electric Dreams
"Electric Dreams" is a British-American science fiction television anthology series based on the works of Philip K. Dick. Each episode is a standalone story, exploring various aspects of artificial intelligence, human nature, and the future of technology. The series delves into the ethical and moral implications of AI, making it a thought-provoking watch for anyone interested in the genre.
Overview
The series consists of 10 episodes, each with a unique storyline and cast. The episodes are inspired by Philip K. Dick's short stories, bringing his visionary ideas to life on the screen. The show features a mix of well-known actors and fresh faces, delivering compelling performances that keep viewers engaged.
Themes
"Electric Dreams" tackles a variety of themes, including the impact of AI on society, the nature of reality, and the consequences of technological advancements. The show often presents a dystopian view of the future, highlighting the potential dangers of unchecked technological progress.
Reception
"Electric Dreams" has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. It has been praised for its imaginative storytelling, high production values, and thought-provoking themes. The series has been compared to other popular sci-fi anthologies like "Black Mirror," but it stands out for its unique take on Philip K. Dick's work.
"Electric Dreams" is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and anyone interested in the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced technology. The series offers a glimpse into a future that is both fascinating and frightening, making it a compelling addition to the genre.
In the realm of Electric Dreams, the future of AI is not just a fantasy but a rapidly approaching reality. Discover the latest advancements and insights into how artificial intelligence is transforming our world. Stay ahead of the curve and explore more on our website.
Conclusion
In an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming our world, the television shows highlighted in this article offer a fascinating glimpse into the myriad possibilities and ethical dilemmas posed by this technology. From exploring future societies and the emotional lives of robots to delving into the complexities of immortality and intergalactic adventures, these shows provide not only entertainment but also a thought-provoking commentary on our relationship with AI. Whether you are a sci-fi aficionado or a casual viewer, these top 10 AI-themed shows are sure to captivate your imagination and spark meaningful conversations about the future of technology and humanity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Westworld about?
Westworld is a sci-fi series set in a futuristic amusement park where visitors interact with lifelike robots. The show explores themes of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and morality.
Is Black Mirror solely focused on AI?
No, Black Mirror is an anthology series that explores various aspects of modern society, often focusing on the dark and unintended consequences of new technologies, including but not limited to AI.
What makes Humans a must-watch show?
Humans delves into the social, cultural, and psychological impact of anthropomorphic robots known as 'Synths' on human society. The show raises questions about what it means to be human.
How does Person of Interest incorporate AI into its storyline?
Person of Interest revolves around a super AI system that predicts crimes before they happen. The series explores themes of surveillance, privacy, and the ethical implications of AI.
What is the premise of Devs?
Devs follows a software engineer who investigates the secretive development division of her company, which she believes is behind the disappearance of her boyfriend. The show delves into quantum computing and determinism.
Where can I watch these AI-themed shows?
These shows are available on various streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and Apple TV+.
