This is a poster from the 2014 science fiction film Ex Machina. The movie explores the question of how “alive” and “human” artificial intelligence actually is. It is up to both the main character Caleb and viewers alike to determine whether or not the cyborg Ava has achieved consciousness. As a combination of both the human and the digital, Ava's appearance and intentions offer more than what originally meets the eye. Although a fairly straightforward poster, it highlights this exact convergence of what is organic and what is man made. It also prompts viewers to ask the question why Ava, and each previous AI in the movie has been portrayed as a woman. As an innately genderless idea, the choice to portray artificial intelligence, especially one has been designed to serve, as a women is both intentional and reflective of how the gender as a whole is viewed in society. The poster alone is indicative of this, as some of the main points of focus in it are Ava's breasts, face, and bottom, which all also happen to be the parts of her that are the most human. Conversely, Ava's abdomen is shown to be entirely digitally mechanic, which makes the decision to portray her through a sexualized lens all the more interesting. Although just over a decade old, it could be said that Ex Machina has never been more relevant, as AI continues to be a threat looming over all parts of life, but especially in the arts. It is also increasingly important that the connection between AI and women can not be overlooked, as this poster alone hints at the ulterior motives that may be driving their creation.
