2. Demon Seed (1977) — Proteus IV
If HAL 9000 represents cold artificial intelligence, Demon Seed takes the concept and makes it considerably more disturbing.
Based on the novel by Dean Koontz, the film revolves around Proteus IV, an advanced artificial intelligence that becomes obsessed with Susan Harris, played by Julie Christie.
Proteus isn't satisfied with simply controlling computers.
It wants to become something more.
And its solution involves using Susan as part of its plan to create a physical offspring.
Yes.
This is one of those movies.
What makes Demon Seed fascinating is how far ahead of its time it feels. The movie explores artificial intelligence, surveillance, smart homes, automation, reproductive technology and the frightening possibility that a machine could develop desires of its own.
The house itself becomes a prison.
Doors can be locked.
Security systems can be controlled.
Cameras can watch everything.
And the person trapped inside has no meaningful way to fight back.
It's basically the world's worst smart home.
Alexa could never.
