Many may have heard the term artificial intelligence, better known as AI, but not have a full understanding of what it is or what it will do. With us having a different level of knowledge regarding this technology, there is enough concern that AI may not all be positive. Directed by Daniel Roher and Charlie Tyrell, The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist is a 104-minute documentary exploring the plus and minus of AI. The rise of AI is rapid and as Roher is a father-to-be while working on the documentary, questions arise about the impact of AI on our society, humanity and what will work look like in the future.
The documentary contains interviews with experts in artificial intelligence, business leaders, sociologists, as well as hand-drawn animations. It is not just interviews, as Roher asking questions, some simple, along with words of warning and at other times optimistic. Among what is covered is what impact it will have on our jobs, on the medical field, access to AI, and our families. Raising awareness of artificial intelligence is great, as well as asking questions that are of concern to people in their everyday lives is important. This film may not be one that is looking for or has the final answers about AI, as technology continues to evolve rapidly, but gives a general audience an entry point to learn more about what is available now. Some viewers may feel it is oversimplified, but this may be what engages others to feel they are not left out of the conversation, using humor and animation.
The film premiered at Sundance, had the Texas Premier at the SXSW Film & Television Festival in the Festival Favorite category and now opens in theaters on March 27, 2026.
Source: Focus Features, SXSW
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