New Film ‘Mothernet’ Explores How AI Influences Emotional Healing

AI-driven family drama explores human-technology relationships: “Mothernet,” a new film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ho Wi Ding, delves into the complex interplay between artificial intelligence and human emotions in a near-future Indonesia.

Plot and setting: The story centers around 16-year-old Rama as he navigates life after his mother falls into a coma following a tragic accident.

• An AI program becomes instrumental in helping Rama and his father reconnect and heal from their loss.
• The film is set in Indonesia’s near future, blending real-world locations with virtual production techniques.

Star-studded cast and production: “Mothernet” brings together established talent and rising stars from the Indonesian film industry.

• Dian Sastrowardoyo (known for Netflix’s “Cigarette Girl”) and Ringgo Agus Rahman lead the adult cast.
• Newcomer Ali Fikri takes on the crucial role of Rama.
• The film is a collaboration between Indonesia’s BASE Entertainment, Beacon Film, Singapore’s Refinery Media, and Vietnam-based producer Winnie Lau’s JEM Productions.

Innovative filming techniques: The production leverages cutting-edge technology to bring its vision to life.

• While primarily shot on location in Indonesia, virtual scenes will be filmed at X3D Studio in Singapore.
• These facilities, operated by Refinery Media, are touted as the largest of their kind in Southeast Asia.

Thematic focus: “Mothernet” aims to explore profound questions about human connection in the digital age.

• The film emphasizes love, life, and authentic human relationships against the backdrop of increasing digital interactions.
• Director Ho Wi Ding describes it as a “cautionary tale” about technology’s role in human attachments.

Production timeline and distribution: The film is currently in active production with a clear roadmap for completion.

• Shooting is expected to continue through the third quarter of 2023.
• The finished product is slated for delivery in 2025.
• BASE Entertainment is handling international rights, with no sales agent currently attached.

Director’s background: Ho Wi Ding brings a wealth of experience and critical acclaim to the project.

• His 2010 film “Pinoy Sunday” earned him the best new director award at the Golden Horse Awards.
• “Cities of Last Things,” Ho’s third feature, won the Platform Prize at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival.

Industry impact: “Mothernet” is positioned as a potential milestone in Southeast Asian cinema.

• Karen Seah of Refinery Media believes the film represents a “new era” in regional filmmaking.
• The collaborative effort aims to set new benchmarks for the industry through its innovative approach and thematic depth.

Broader implications: “Mothernet” reflects growing global interest in AI’s societal impact.

• The film’s exploration of AI’s role in emotional healing and family dynamics taps into contemporary anxieties and fascinations surrounding technology.
• By setting the story in Indonesia, the film also brings a unique cultural perspective to the global conversation about AI and human relationships.
• As AI continues to advance rapidly, “Mothernet” may serve as a thought-provoking examination of the technology’s potential benefits and pitfalls in our most intimate human experiences.