Emperica

As artists, our intention with “Emperica” is to provoke thought and discussion on the complex and critical issues surrounding the future of mankind and the role that artificial intelligence should play in shaping that future. In this film, we explore the tension between two opposing philosophies: the total control of humanity to safeguard survival versus the granting of absolute freedom, even at the risk of self-destruction.

Our approach was to present these two perspectives through a slow, deliberate dialogue between two voices, each offering compelling arguments for their respective positions. We intentionally avoided pushing the audience towards one narrative or the other, instead allowing the viewers to engage with the ideas presented and form their own conclusions. The ambiguity in the conclusion is a crucial aspect of the film, designed to stimulate debate and reflection.

The setting of the film—a post-apocalyptic lab where a human subject undergoes psychological and physical testing—serves as a stark visual representation of the stakes involved. The test subject's suffering is made intentionally prolonged by the measured pace of the discussion, emphasizing the real-world implications of these theoretical debates. The occasional protests of the human subject serve as a reminder of the human cost associated with both control and freedom.

“Emperica” is also a meta-commentary on the role of AI in art and society. The film itself was co-written and voiced by AI, raising questions about the influence and authority we are willing to grant these technologies in our creative processes and decision-making. By incorporating AI into both the content and creation of the film, we underscore the film’s central themes and invite the audience to consider the broader implications of AI’s role in our future.

In the end, this film is not about providing answers but about posing the right questions. It is a piece designed to engage the audience in a deeper contemplation of the choices we face as a society and the responsibilities we hold in the face of rapidly advancing technologies.

Ron Chiers, Kris De Meester