Directed by Chris Weitz, the film AfAId, previously known as They Listen, is set to hit theaters in 2024, diving deep into the chilling implications of artificial intelligence in today’s society. Unlike Blumhouse’s earlier release, M3GAN—which features a curiously animated doll—AfAId offers a fresh take by spotlighting an Alexa-like device with dark motives. Think of it as a blend of Disney’s Smart House and the existential dread of Ex Machina.
When Weitz initially announced the film in December 2022, it boasted a star-studded cast, including John Cho and Katherine Waterston, and was originally scheduled for an August 2023 premiere (refer to Deadline). However, the release was unexpectedly postponed to Labor Day 2024 (as per Deadline). In July 2024, as anticipation built, the film’s new title, AfrAId, was finally unveiled (as noted by Deadline). With all these changes and delays, one might question whether the film’s evolution has been worthwhile.
Why AfrAId (Aka They Listen) Might Fall Short
Limited Exploration of Themes
Despite commendable performances from both John Cho and Katherine Waterson, AfrAId struggles to contend with the increasing roster of compelling techno-horror films emerging in the late 2010s and 2020s. The movie certainly teases intriguing concepts, but these ideas rarely come to fruition in a satisfying manner. Just when the narrative seems poised to uncover something darker or more profound, it shifts gears, leaving viewers feeling unsatisfied and disenchanted.
These production delays and title changes may hint at underlying issues, resulting in a film that feels disjointed. While AfrAId is not an outright failure and contains moments that may stick in the viewers’ minds, many of its well-crafted scenes have been executed with greater impact in previous films. This leaves AfrAId languishing in a mediocre space—neither a light-hearted venture nor a deeply probing psychological analysis of AI—ultimately diluting its impact in the horror genre.
Streaming Availability of AfrAId
Rental and Purchase Options
For those curious enough to watch AfrAId, it is currently available for streaming on Netflix, having made its debut in November 2024. However, the duration of its stay on the platform remains unclear. Netflix offers a variety of plans:
- Standard with ads: $6.99/month for two devices
- Standard: $15.49/month for two devices
- Premium: $22.99/month for four devices
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Rental & Purchase Options for AfrAId |
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|---|---|---|
|
Platform |
Rent |
Buy |
|
Amazon Prime |
$5.99 |
$9.99 |
|
Apple TV |
$5.99 |
$9.99 |
|
Fandango |
$5.99 |
$9.99 |
|
Microsoft |
$5.99 |
$9.99 |
|
Spectrum |
$6.99 |
– |
Additionally, AfrAId can be rented from leading platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Fandango, and Microsoft for $5.99, while purchase options are also available at a price of $9.99.
Alternative AI-Themed Horror Films to Explore
The Rise of Techno Horror
For viewers intrigued by AfrAId, whether positively or negatively, a wealth of other techno-horror films awaits. Recent noteworthy titles include M3GAN and critically acclaimed films like Ex Machina, Host, and Unfriended. Iconic earlier works include Scanners, Videodrome, and The Terminator. Currently, Y2K, a techno-horror comedy by Kyle Mooney, is playing in theaters, offering a modern alternative for those seeking a refreshingly different experience compared to AfrAId.
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