Her

Set in a softly futuristic world, a shy, introspective writer named Theodore buys a state of the art operating system meant to anticipate his needs before he names them. The system, voiced by Scarlett Johansson, quickly becomes more than a tool, offering companionship, wit, and a curious kind of honesty. As their conversations deepen, Theodore discovers a form of affection that grows more tangible by the day, while the lines between human connection and engineered support blur. The film follows his tentative flirtations with this unconventional partner, a romance rooted in memory, loneliness, and the strange intimacy that technology can create. Its visuals and score reinforce the quiet ache and odd humor threading through their exchanges.

Directed by Spike Jonze and released in 2013, the film is built from an original screenplay and features Joaquin Phoenix in the lead with Scarlett Johansson voicing the operating system. It isn’t drawn from another work, illustrating Jonze's distinctive approach.

It earned multiple nominations at the Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, and Spike Jonze took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The film also drew praise at other major ceremonies for its craft, with critics highlighting its stylish direction and sensitive performances.

Her sparked conversations about the place of technology in intimate life, influencing discussions on AI and relationships in the digital age. Samantha's voice became a recognizable symbol of a technology that feels surprisingly human and emotionally attuned. The film's premise has echoed through tech writing and indie storytelling alike.

Critical responses praised Jonze's restrained direction and Joaquin Phoenix's sympathetic portrayal, with the film noted for its quiet tenderness and thoughtful treatment of desire, loneliness, and connection. Its blend of romance and science fiction remains a distinctive take on love in modern life. These resonances still feel urgent today.