Smiles and Kisses You

On the surface of it, the subject matter of this movie seems uncomfortable, even taboo. But Bryan Carberry did a masterful job at making the audience feel comfortable in a comfortable situation, and on top of that, we got to navigate the story with the most endearing subject ever. It was a pleasure to watch!

Carberry, the director of Smiles and Kisses You, tells a grounded story about the relationship between a life-size doll animated by AI and Chris, a charismatic North Carolinian rebuilding after a tragedy he believes he caused. Carberry builds trust with Chris and with us as the film explores how technology, often blamed for loneliness, can offer a lifeline to someone who no longer believes in himself. The film encourages the audience to view this unconventional relationship through a compassionate, judgment-free lens. Don't miss this heartfelt story about Chris and his doll, Mimi.

A very likable protagonist who gets caught up in technology's "solutions" for the future of love. Also a look at what dating feels like in the 2020s in small town America, and the problems with modern romance when everyone already knows everyone. Endearing yet dystopian. Also what a nice roommate to deal with all of this!

In 1979 Gary Numan went to number one with ARE FRIENDS ELECTRIC?. A story of a human and a robot sex worker one of my favourite songs at that time, it spoke to a future just around the corner that we would all eventually take for granted. Forty five years later meet Chris and Mimi. For those interested in human A. I. relations this film is fascinating and essential. One couldn't be blamed for going into this expecting a cheap chuckle at a sad lonely nut job but you couldn't be more wrong. The director treats Chris with all due respect and digs deep into the human condition through Chris's experiences, thoughts and behaviour.

However you come to feel about Chris's relationship with an artificial person Chris strikes me as social, sensitive, intelligent and above all a well meaning person trying to cope with his environment and what the world has thrown at him in a responsible self aware way.

IMO Chris's relationship has only helped him to survive, learn and evolve in a positive direction compared to if he had not acted upon his urges as many of us don't due to social stigma myself included. As limited as his A. I./ real doll partner is I truly feel that Chris has only become a better person for this relationship.

This movie is likely to shatter your expectations and stay with you long after it has finished. I only hope you can afford Chris the same compassion and consideration he shows towards his machine partner.

What a time we live in. It almost doesn't feel like a documentary, in the best way possible. It's truly a wild ride - all of the twists and turns makes you think it'll be one thing and leaves you with another. Watch with someone so you can discuss because it'll have you really thinking for days after.