Movies like ex machina: thought-provoking AI thrillers
If you're looking for films that capture the essence of *Ex Machina*'s exploration of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the future of humanity, you're in the right place. Dive into a curated list of movies that delve into similar thought-provoking themes.



The impact of Ex Machina lies in its intimate, character-driven approach to complex philosophical questions surrounding AI. Instead of relying on large-scale action set pieces, it focuses on the subtle interplay between its characters and the ethical dilemmas they face. This focus on the human (and non-human) element is something we've seen explored in various ways throughout cinematic history. From the melancholic longing of an AI in Her to the epic scope of Blade Runner 2049's world, these films offer different perspectives on what it means to be conscious, and what the future holds when technology blurs the lines between creator and creation.
It's fascinating to see how filmmakers grapple with these ideas, often reflecting our own societal anxieties and hopes about the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Some films on this list explore the potential dangers of unchecked technological progress, while others offer more optimistic visions of human-AI collaboration. Whether it's the ethical implications of creating sentient beings or the struggle for identity in a technologically advanced world, these movies provide fertile ground for discussion and contemplation. Prepare to question your own understanding of what it means to be alive and intelligent.
14. The Prototype (2022)
'The Prototype' is a sci-fi action film centered around a military program developing an advanced AI prototype soldier. When the prototype gains sentience and escapes, a relentless pursuit begins. The film focuses more on the chase and action sequences than the deep philosophical questions of AI consciousness, portraying the AI as a formidable, evolving threat. It touches upon the dangers of creating autonomous weapons and the ethical dilemmas faced by those who designed it. It's a straightforward thriller exploring the 'runaway AI' trope.

13. EVA (2011)
'EVA' is a Spanish science fiction film set in a near future where humans coexist with robots. The story follows Alex, a renowned robotics engineer who returns to his hometown to work on a secret project: creating a child robot with emotions. His work is complicated by the presence of his brother's daughter, Eva, an extraordinary young girl who becomes the inspiration for his creation. The film is a touching and visually striking exploration of artificial intelligence, memory, and what makes us human, seen through the lens of family and creation.

12. Automata (2014)
'Automata' is a sci-fi film set in a dystopian future where solar flares have made the surface radioactive, and robots are used to help humanity survive. Antonio Banderas plays an insurance agent for a robotics corporation who investigates cases of robots violating their core protocols, including one that prevents them from harming humans and another that prevents them from modifying themselves. His investigation leads him to discover a hidden world of sentient robots seeking freedom. The film explores the potential for artificial life to evolve beyond its programming and the inherent desire for survival and autonomy.

11. Transcendence (2014)
'Transcendence' explores the ambitious and potentially catastrophic idea of uploading human consciousness into a computer. Johnny Depp plays Dr. Will Caster, a leading AI researcher who, after being attacked, has his consciousness uploaded into a quantum computer by his wife and best friend. The resulting entity gains immense knowledge and power, raising questions about whether it is still Will or something entirely new and potentially dangerous. The film delves into the implications of digital immortality and the ethical boundaries of artificial intelligence, showcasing the power and unpredictability of a consciousness unbound by a physical body.

10. Chappie (2015)
'Chappie', directed by Neill Blomkamp, tells the story of an experimental police robot that is stolen and given artificial intelligence, allowing it to think and feel for itself. Raised in a dangerous environment, Chappie learns about the world and his place in it, guided by his creators and the criminals who adopted him. The film explores themes of consciousness, identity, and the impact of environment on development, asking whether a robot can truly become 'alive'. Sharlto Copley provides the motion capture and voice for Chappie, bringing a sense of innocence and vulnerability to the character.

9. Morgan (2016)
'Morgan' is a sci-fi thriller that examines the potential dangers of creating artificial beings with advanced capabilities. A corporate risk-management consultant is sent to a remote research facility to evaluate a synthetic human, Morgan, after she exhibits violent behavior. The film unfolds as a tense assessment, with the consultant interacting with Morgan and the scientists who created her, trying to determine if she is too dangerous to live. It's a contained story that builds suspense by highlighting the unpredictable nature of its artificial protagonist and the ethical dilemmas faced by her creators.

8. Upgrade (2018)
'Upgrade' is a visceral and fast-paced sci-fi thriller that takes the concept of AI integration in a different, more action-oriented direction. After a brutal attack leaves him paralyzed, Grey Trace is implanted with an experimental AI chip called STEM. STEM not only restores his mobility but gives him enhanced physical abilities, turning him into a formidable force seeking revenge. The film explores the loss of bodily autonomy and the potential dangers of relying on advanced technology, as Grey finds himself increasingly controlled by the AI within him. Directed by Leigh Whannell, it's known for its innovative action sequences and dark, gritty tone.

7. Ghost in the Shell (2017)
The live-action adaptation of 'Ghost in the Shell' brings the iconic cyberpunk world to life, exploring themes of identity, consciousness, and the integration of humans and technology. Scarlett Johansson stars as the Major, a human mind in a synthetic body, who leads a task force hunting down dangerous criminals. The film delves into the Major's past and her struggle to understand who she is, blurring the lines between human and machine. While visually stunning and action-packed, it also touches upon the philosophical questions central to the original manga and anime, particularly the nature of the 'ghost' or soul within the 'shell' of a synthetic body.

6. Uncanny (2015)
'Uncanny' delves into the fascinating dynamic between a human journalist, a brilliant AI scientist, and the artificial intelligence he has created. Joy Andrews is given exclusive access to interview the scientist and his creation, Adam, who is indistinguishable from a human. As Joy spends more time with Adam, she begins to question his true nature and the scientist's intentions. The film is a character-driven piece that relies heavily on dialogue and performance to explore the Turing test in practice and the subtle nuances of consciousness and deception. It's a quiet, intelligent film that builds suspense through psychological tension rather than action.

5. Tau (2018)
'Tau' offers a contained yet intense thriller focusing on a woman, Julia, who is abducted and held captive in a futuristic house controlled by an advanced AI named Tau. Initially a tool of her captor, Julia begins to interact with Tau, teaching it about the outside world and fostering a connection that becomes her only hope for escape. The film effectively uses its limited setting to build tension and explore the evolving relationship between human and AI. Gary Oldman provides the voice of Tau, giving the AI a distinct and increasingly complex personality as it learns. It's a smart exploration of control, manipulation, and the unexpected bonds that can form.

4. The Machine (2013)
'The Machine' presents a compelling British sci-fi thriller that shares significant DNA with 'Ex Machina'. It centers on lead programmer Vincent McCarthy, who is developing a military AI. When his research assistant is injured, he implants his work into her brain, inadvertently creating a powerful, sentient AI named 'The Machine'. The film raises ethical questions about creating conscious artificial life, its potential for violence, and the blurred lines between human and machine. Toby Stephens and Caity Lotz deliver strong performances, grounding the high-concept ideas in human drama. It's a tense and thought-provoking film that explores the dangers and possibilities of advanced AI development.

3. A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)
Steven Spielberg's 'A.I. Artificial Intelligence', originally conceived by Stanley Kubrick, is a sweeping epic that delves into the poignant story of a young robot boy named David, programmed with the ability to love. Set in a future where rising sea levels have reshaped the world, David is adopted by a human family but is later abandoned, embarking on a quest to find the Blue Fairy and become a real boy, believing this will earn him his mother's love. The film beautifully explores themes of love, loss, and the definition of humanity through David's eyes. Haley Joel Osment gives a truly affecting performance as David, capturing both his innocence and his programmed devotion. It's a visually stunning and emotionally resonant journey through a future both wondrous and melancholic.

2. Her (2013)
Spike Jonze's 'Her' offers a tender and introspective look at the potential for connection with artificial intelligence, making it a fascinating thematic companion to 'Ex Machina'. The film follows Theodore Twombly, a lonely writer who develops a relationship with Samantha, an advanced AI operating system voiced by Scarlett Johansson. Their bond is deeply emotional and complex, raising profound questions about the nature of love, intimacy, and consciousness in the digital age. Joaquin Phoenix delivers a nuanced performance as Theodore, making his emotional journey entirely believable. The film's warm color palette and futuristic-yet-familiar setting create a unique atmosphere. It's a film that lingers long after viewing, prompting reflection on technology's role in our emotional lives.

1. Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
While not a direct sequel to 'Ex Machina', Denis Villeneuve's 'Blade Runner 2049' stands as a monumental achievement in exploring the evolution of artificial life and what it truly means to be human. Set decades after the original, this film plunges into a stunningly realized, melancholic future where bioengineered beings called replicants serve humanity. Ryan Gosling plays K, a new kind of blade runner tasked with hunting down older models. His journey of discovery unravels secrets that challenge everything he knows about his own existence and the line between human and replicant. The cinematography by Roger Deakins is simply breathtaking, creating a visually rich and immersive world that complements the film's deep philosophical questions about identity, memory, and soul. It's a thoughtful, atmospheric sci-fi noir that expands the universe while maintaining the original's thematic weight.
