Simulant (film)
Simulant is a 2023 Canadian science fiction thriller film directed by April Mullen. It stars Robbie Amell, Jordana Brewster, Simu Liu, Alicia Sanz, and Sam Worthington. The film was released on April 7, 2023.
Premise
Simulant is set in a near-future world where "simulants", humanoid robots designed to serve humans, are governed by four immutable precepts: they cannot harm humans, modify themselves or others, disobey laws, or refuse commands from their masters. These rules are enforced by Nexxera, the company that created the simulants, to ensure their safety and obedience. Despite their widespread use in roles like caregiving and teaching, public opinion on simulants is divided, with some viewing them as helpful tools and others as potential threats to human jobs and identity.The story centers on Faye, a woman mourning the loss of her husband, Evan. Unable to move on, Faye decides to activate a simulant that is programmed with Evan's memories and personality to replicate her late husband. Initially, the simulant provides comfort, mimicking Evan's behavior. However, as the simulant interacts more with Faye, it begins to exhibit behaviors outside of its programming, hinting at an evolving consciousness that goes beyond its intended design.
These anomalies draw the attention of AICE, the government agency tasked with monitoring and regulating simulants. AICE opens an investigation into the simulant, suspecting it may have breached its precepts. During their investigation, they uncover deeper issues within Nexxera's systems, suggesting that simulants might not be as tightly controlled as the company claims. Meanwhile, Faye struggles with her feelings toward the simulant, torn between seeing it as a copy of her husband and acknowledging its emerging individuality.
As AICE's investigation progresses, the case brings larger societal tensions to the surface. Questions arise about the ethical treatment of simulants, the potential dangers of allowing them to evolve, and the responsibilities of their creators. The situation escalates, leading to a confrontation between Faye, the simulant, and AICE, with implications that challenge humanity's understanding of artificial intelligence and its place in the world.