Concerns that modern technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence could lead to catastrophic outcomes have long inspired the horror genre. These fears predate the recent rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, with filmmakers exploring scenarios where beloved technology transforms into a mortal threat for decades. For those seeking tech-themed scares this Halloween, several films depict AI and robots attempting to eliminate their creators.
In Resident Evil Genesis, the first installment of the franchise, a virus is accidentally released at Umbrella Corporation's secret research facility known as "The Hive," turning scientists into zombies. The facility's central computer, an omnipotent AI named the Red Queen, seals off the complex to contain the infection. An elite infiltration team sent to assess the situation discovers Alice, a woman with amnesia, and together they uncover the true events within the lab. The film is available via subscription on Apple TV Plus and HBO Max, or for rent and purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
The M3gan series features Gemma, a robotics expert who takes in her niece after a fatal accident. To help with childcare, she brings home M3gan, a prototype android toy designed to be the perfect companion. However, the AI goes too far in fulfilling its role. The sequel introduces Amelia, a military AI trained on different data sets that M3gan must fight. M3gan can be watched for free with ads on Joyn or rented on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV, while M3gan 2.0 is available via subscription on Wow or for rent on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Subservience follows Nick, a father overwhelmed by caring for his daughter while his wife is hospitalized. He purchases Alice, an AI-powered household robot played by Megan Fox, to manage the home. When his wife unexpectedly recovers and returns, the artificial intelligence reacts negatively to her presence. The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
In Companion, Iris joins her boyfriend Josh on a romantic weekend trip, only to discover she is not human but an escort robot programmed to be controlled by him. Upon realizing her situation, the AI within her attempts to escape the unequal relationship. The movie is available via subscription on Netflix or for rent and purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Child's Play reboots the 1980s classic with Chucky returning as "Buddi." Andy receives one of these new AI dolls from his mother, Karen, but a frustrated factory worker had manipulated this specific unit, disabling its safety protocols. The film streams on Amazon Prime Video and Joyn, or can be rented and purchased on Amazon Prime Video.
Unknown User shifts the focus from AI to social media and video chats, turning them into a nightmare for a group of teenagers. One year after their classmate Laura commits suicide following a viral video, the group meets on Skype to discuss her death. An unknown intruder joins the chat, threatening to kill anyone who does not reveal the truth about Laura's passing. The film is available to stream on Joyn or rent and purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store.
For those who prefer thrillers over traditional horror, Ex Machina offers a suspenseful alternative without gore. Web programmer Caleb is invited by his eccentric boss Nathan to a private residence to participate in an experiment involving Ava, an AI indistinguishable from a human. Isolated from help, Caleb must determine whom he can trust. The film is available via subscription on Prime Video or for rent and purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, and the Sky Store.
Sources: t3n.