Experiencing Interruptions?

The Computer Problem

In 1961 computer scientists at Bell Labs synthesized the first computerized voice when they programmed an IBM 704 to sing Daisy Bell. Fast forward to the machine learning and immensely complex algorithms of today and a future where consciousness can be synthesized seems like a real possibility. Yet in a world where technology has already exceeded our humanity should we advance just because we can?

Our film explores various milestones in the history of computation, showing moments of progress that have brought us to where we are today, and even dare to glimpse at a possible future. The film acts as both a ledger and warning of unrestricted advancement, as it brings the audience to a climax of ambiguity.

  • Norman Staub
    Director
  • Coleman Norton
    Director
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Experimental, Short, Student, Web / New Media
  • Genres:
    Experimental, Sci-fi
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 46 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    April 29, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    100 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital S35
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Ithaca Collage
Director - Norman Staub, Coleman Norton
Director Statement

We're two student filmmakers from Ithaca College. We created this film for a semester assignment, and in hopes of putting it into the festival circuit. Our goal is to explore the evolution of computing through a non-traditional narrative by creating an experimental series of vignettes.