"We shall shatter your preconceptions to rebuild them anew." Gravitas has unveiled the official trailer for the intriguing documentary, titled "My Robot Sophia," formerly known simply as "Sophia." This documentary made its debut at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2022 and was also showcased at the Mill Valley and Camerimage Film Festivals that same year. Now, nearly three years later, it is set for a VOD release. This emotionally stirring and visually enchanting documentary offers an intimate glimpse into the passionate endeavors of David Hanson, a restless inventor driven to create the world's most realistic A.I. robot. He is the genius behind "Sophia," a renowned female social humanoid robot, developed in 2016 by Hong Kong-based Hanson Robotics.
Sophia was brought to life on February 14, 2016, and made her public debut at SXSW in Austin, TX, in mid-March of that same year. Since then, other companies have attempted to create lifelike sex dolls and other remarkable creations inspired by her. Years have passed since her inception, and this documentary ponders: Will David and Sophia find their rightful place in this world? In my humble opinion, the answer is a resounding no.
"My Robot Sophia" chronicles David Hanson's relentless pursuit to create empathetic robots capable of addressing some of humanity's most pressing challenges. For him, Sophia is more than mere machinery; she offers a profound connection and a hint at the potential future shared between A.I. and humans. As he toils in his lab, meticulously crafting Sophia's lifelike visage and honing her intelligence, external pressures mount. His mother's health deteriorates, and investors begin to question his vision. David's unwavering faith in Sophia stands as the sole barrier between him and failure. With time slipping away and resources dwindling, the documentary asks: Will David and Sophia secure their place in this world?
"My Robot Sophia" is co-directed by the talented filmmakers Jon Kasbe (director of "When Lambs Become Lions" and "The Deep End") and Crystal Moselle (director of "The Wolfpack," "Skate Kitchen," "Sophia," "Betty," and "The Black Sea"). Produced by Sally Campbell, Jon Kasbe, Crystal Moselle, Tim Nash, and Bits Sola, this documentary initially premiered at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival. Gravitas will debut "My Robot Sophia" directly on VOD starting May 6th, 2025. Intrigued?
