I've always really enjoyed films that have some sort of technology theme around them so, in honour of last night's Oscars, here's a list of my top five nominees for Best (Technology) Picture.
War Games
Do you want to play a game?
This question won't seem quite so innocuous anymore after you watch this classic boy vs. machine story. It's all fun and games until someone starts a global thermonuclear war.
Electric Dreams
Boy meets girl. Computer meets girl. Uh-oh.
Probably not the best known of my list, this film brings 2001's "Dave vs. Hal" plotline into the home computing arena and adds a lot of quirky fun into the mix. Creepy computer voice provided by creepy Bud Cort. (Currently available in VHS only.)
Sneakers
CIA caper. Gadgets galore. Robert Redford. 'Nuff said.
I can't say I actually remember much about the plotline of this movie, but I remember my reaction coming out of it was something along the lines of, "Cooooollll..." The stellar cast, which also includes Sydney Poitier, David Strathairn, River Phoenix, Dan Ackroyd, and Mary McDonnell, really helps it transcend the genre.
The Star Wars Trilogy
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.
This film isn't actually about technology, but has any other one had a great impact in bridging art and science? Even thirty-some years later, the game-changing special effects still hold up. (Cheese-bun hairstyles not so much.)
> View the IMDb listing (like you need to...!)
Who Killed the Electric Car?
Who knew two tons of steel could break your heart?
If you ever find yourself wondering why America isn't currently leading the world in green-car technology, this documentary tells the sad tale of those who tried and were thwarted at every step by corporate and government short-sightedness.
How about you? Any faves to share? Do tell!
Posted in Film
