The Top 25 AI Movies To Watch In 2024

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Gareth Shelwell Last Updated: June 07, 2024
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Recent advancements in AI have shattered boundaries, opening doors to incredible possibilities and new dilemmas. The big screen has long been a playground for exploring AI-driven futures but as technology progresses, some of these once-fictional scenarios tiptoe closer to reality.

Our top 25 AI movies list showcases a collection of our favorites, featuring the heartwarming robot Wall-E all the way to the other end of the spectrum with the relentless T1000 in "Terminator." These films explore ethical dilemmas, emotional bonds, and the essence of humanity.

Jump To The #1 Best AI Movie To Watch In 2024

The Best AI Movies To Watch

Get your popcorn ready because we've got movie night covered! From thrilling adventures to thought-provoking tales, these movies showcase the fascinating intersection of technology and imagination. Let's get into it!

#25 The Machine (2013)

Image of Ava showing off her athletic and fighting ability

IMDb Rating: 6.1 | Rotten Tomatoes: 79% (Critics), 56% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Imagine a dystopian future where Britain is in the midst of a Cold War with China. Here, we meet scientist Vincent McCarthy, who's developed an advanced AI for national defense. But things take a turn when this AI starts to experience feelings and sensations. It begins to question its own existence and purpose, diving deep into the ethical implications of creating conscious machines.

Why It's Awesome

As someone who's been passionate about tech my whole life, I found "The Machine" particularly captivating. It tackles the complexities of AI and the ethical questions they raise. The plot is not just gripping but also deeply emotional, making you reflect on the nature of consciousness and the moral responsibilities that come with technological progress.

#24 Real Steel (2011)

Image of Noisy Boy the Japanese fighting robot smashing its opponent

IMDb Rating: 7.1 | Rotten Tomatoes: 60% (Critics), 73% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

It is set in a near future where human boxers have been replaced by giant, remote-controlled robots. Hugh Jackman stars as Charlie Kenton, a former boxer who's down on his luck. He gets a shot at redemption when he teams up with his estranged son, Max, to build and train a championship robot fighter named Atom. As they work together, they bond over their underdog robot and learn valuable lessons about family, perseverance, and redemption.

Why It's Awesome

Real Steel has a special place in my heart because watching it took me back to my childhood days of tinkering with gadgets and dreaming about building my own robots. If you're into underdog stories with a tech twist, "Real Steel" is a must-watch. The film blends thrilling robot fight scenes with touching, heartfelt moments.

#23 RoboCop (1987)

Image of RoboCop wielding his weapon

IMDb Rating: 7.6 | Rotten Tomatoes: 90% (Critics), 84% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

"RoboCop" transports you to a dystopian future where Detroit is overrun by crime and corporate greed. The story centers around Alex Murphy, a dedicated police officer who meets an untimely end, only to be resurrected as RoboCop, a formidable cyborg law enforcer. Armed with advanced weaponry and a computerized brain, RoboCop is on a mission to wipe out crime and corruption. However, he grapples with fragmented memories of his former life, leading to an internal conflict between his robotic programming and deep-seated human emotions.

Why It's Awesome

It mixes intense action scenes with a clever take on consumerism, corporate power, and how we lose our humanity to technology. The film's gritty feel, along with a great story and, of course, RoboCop himself, makes it a timeless classic, earning its spot in our list of top AI movies.

#22 Robot & Frank (2012)

Image of Frank talking to the Robot in a wooded area

IMDb Rating: 7.0 | Rotten Tomatoes: 86% (Critics), 74% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Set in the near future, an aging ex-jewel thief named Frank receives a gift from his son: a robot butler programmed to look after him.  At first, Frank isn't too happy about it, but he soon sees the robot's potential as a partner in crime for a series of heists. Their unlikely friendship dives into themes of aging, companionship, and how humans and technology interact.

Why It's Awesome

The special bond between Frank and his robot shows how technology can make our lives better, but also makes us think about dependence and independence. This film is perfect for anyone who likes stories that mix serious topics with warmth and humor. It's a heartfelt, engaging movie that's both funny and thought-provoking.

#21 Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018)

Image of Colin Ritman sitting back on a chair with an unimpressed look

IMDb Rating: 7.1 | Rotten Tomatoes: 72% (Critics), 72% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

"Black Mirror: Bandersnatch" is an innovative interactive film from the acclaimed "Black Mirror" series. Set in the 1980s, it follows young programmer Stefan as he adapts a choose-your-own-adventure book into a video game. What sets this film apart is its interactive format, where viewers make decisions that influence the storyline, leading to multiple possible outcomes. This unique approach immerses you in Stefan's world, making you feel a profound sense of responsibility for his actions and the unfolding narrative.

Why It's Awesome

If you're like me and watched every episode of the hit series Black Mirror...more than once, then the Black Mirror movie is a must-watch. The interactive format makes you feel as if your choices directly impact the characters' reality, creating an odd sense of responsibility. This movie delves into themes of free will, control, and the psychological effects of choice while pushing the limits of interactive media.

Fun Fact (SPOILER ALERT): There are 5 primary endings with various outcomes for the main character, Stefan, such as imprisonment, death, or even a meta-ending where he realizes he's being controlled by the audience.

#20 I Am Mother (2019)

Image of mother holding, who is a robot, holding a baby

IMDb Rating: 6.7 | Rotten Tomatoes: 91% (Critics), 75% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, a teenage girl raised underground by a robot named Mother is part of a mission to repopulate Earth. The story takes a dramatic turn when a stranger shows up with unsettling news, making the girl question everything she's been told about the outside world and Mother's true intentions...

Why It's Awesome

This movie is perfect for anyone who loves exploring the ethical and emotional aspects of AI and human relationships.

#19 Transcendence (2014)

Image of Johnny Depp with scruffy hair on a ladder

IMDb Rating: 6.2 | Rotten Tomatoes: 19% (Critics), 38% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In "Transcendence," Johnny Depp stars as a scientist whose consciousness is uploaded to a supercomputer. As he grows more powerful and becomes arguably out of control, the lines between humanity and technology blur, raising ethical and moral questions about the limits of technological advancement.

Why It's Awesome

Fans of technology and AI will love this movie, which is why, despite its poor reviews, it still makes our list. It explores the idea of accessing the vast expanse of the internet instantly, and with the recent advances of AI, posing the question: how close is this film to becoming a reality?

#18 Chappie (2015)

Image of Chappie the robot tricked out with gold chains brandishing a weapon held at an angle

IMDb Rating: 6.8 | Rotten Tomatoes: 32% (Critics), 56% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Set in Johannesburg, the police use robots to bring down the high crime rate. One of these robots, Chappie, gets reprogrammed and starts to think and feel like a human. Raised by a gang, Chappie has to find his way in a world that sees him as a threat. He's up against powerful forces that either want to control him or destroy him. This movie blends exciting action with a heartfelt story, pushing the limits of what it means to be human and what AI can become.

Why It's Awesome

If you love action-filled, emotional stories with a sprinkle of humor and 'excessive' futuristic weapons and AI, this movie is will be in your wheelhouse.

#17 Bicentennial Man (1999)

Image of a robot looking directly at the camera

IMDb Rating: 6.9 | Rotten Tomatoes: 37% (Critics), 57% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Andrew, an android played by Robin Williams, starts as a household robot designed to do basic chores. Over 200 years, Andrew slowly develops emotions and new abilities, aiming to become fully human and experience life to its fullest. This film beautifully delves into themes of identity, humanity, and the passage of time.

Why It's Awesome

If you enjoy heartfelt stories about identity and what it means to be human, you'll love this movie. Robin Williams, as usual, delivers an incredible performance, bringing a sentient being's journey towards human consciousness and emotion to life.

#16 Eva (2011)

Image of a robot looking at their in what appears to be astonishment

IMDb Rating: 6.6 | Rotten Tomatoes: 85% (Critics), 68% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In the year 2041, cybernetic engineer Alex returns to his hometown to design a new child robot prototype. While reconnecting with old friends and facing the moral challenges of his work, Alex meets Eva, a mysterious and captivating girl who is crucial to his project. The film deeply explores themes of memory, emotion, and artificial life.

Why It's Awesome

If you love emotional stories mixed with sci-fi elements, you'll find this film compelling. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys blending futuristic technology with deep, personal drama.

Language: Catalan

#15 Alita: Battle Angel (2019)

Image of Alita holding out her android hands out with palms up

IMDb Rating: 7.3 | Rotten Tomatoes: 61% (Critics), 92% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In a post-apocalyptic future, a cyborg named Alita (Rosa Salazar) is brought back to life by a kind doctor (Christoph Waltz). With no memory of who she was, Alita explores the dangerous streets of Iron City and discovers her incredible combat skills. On a mission to learn about her past, she faces powerful enemies and uncovers a destiny that could change the world.

Why It's Awesome

If you love visually stunning sci-fi and epic adventures, you'll be hooked by Alita's journey. I personally love this movie for its strong, compelling characters and richly detailed futuristic setting. With a fierce female lead, it's easy to see why Alita: Battle Angel is a fan favorite, boasting a 92% Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score!

#14 Moon (2009)

Image of GERTY the robot

IMDb Rating: 7.8 | Rotten Tomatoes: 90% (Critics), 89% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

"Moon" follows Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell), a lone worker on a lunar base, as he nears the end of his three-year job mining helium-3, the main energy source for Earth. Isolated and feeling lonely, Sam's only company is a robot named GERTY (voiced by Kevin Spacey). As his contract's end approaches, Sam starts experiencing strange events and makes a shocking discovery that turns his world upside down.

Why It's Awesome

Moon is perfect for tech enthusiasts who love movies about isolation, identity, and AI ethics. The film's gripping and atmospheric story will keep you thinking long after it ends. It's a must-watch for anyone into thoughtful, character-driven sci-fi.

#13 Upgrade (2018)

Image of Grey Trace standing with Asha Trace against a futuristic car

IMDb Rating: 7.5 | Rotten Tomatoes: 88% (Critics), 87% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

After a mugging leaves technophobe Grey Trace (Logan Marshall-Green) paralyzed, he gets an experimental computer chip implant called Stem, which allows him to walk again. With Stem's advanced abilities, Grey sets out to get revenge on those who attacked him, uncovering a bigger conspiracy along the way. The movie mixes advanced technology, sci-fi, and action with a dark, cyberpunk feel.

Why It's Awesome

Action fans and cyberpunk lovers will be drawn to the gritty, high-stakes story. If you enjoy intense, revenge-driven plots with a tech twist, this one shouldn't be missed!

#12 A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)

Image of Haley Joel Osment and Jude Law in a retro futuristic scene

IMDb Rating: 7.2 | Rotten Tomatoes: 75% (Critics), 64% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

David (Haley Joel Osment) is a highly advanced robotic boy programmed to love unconditionally. Adopted by a family as an experiment, David is abandoned and sets out on a journey to become "real" so he can win back the love of his human mother. Along the way, he explores a world where the line between human and machine becomes increasingly blurred.

Why It's Awesome

Well, first of all, it's directed by Steven Spielberg, so you know it's going to be great! Secondly, it's an emotional ride with thought-provoking AI and sci-fi concepts. This movie is perfect for fans who appreciate heartfelt stories about love, identity, and the quest for humanity.

#11 I, Robot (2004)

Image of Will Smith suspiciously staring down a line of robots

IMDb Rating: 8.7 | Rotten Tomatoes: 87% (Critics), 85% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Set in 2035, "I, Robot" follows technophobic cop Del Spooner (Will Smith) as he investigates a murder that might have been committed by a robot. Spooner's distrust of robots stems from a past incident where a robot prioritized saving his life over a young girl's based on calculated survival odds. His investigation reveals a larger threat to humanity, forcing him to face an army of rogue robots and his own biases about AI. The film dives into the ethical implications of robotics and AI, a topic that's especially relevant today with the rise of self-driving cars and other AI technologies.

Why It's Awesome

Will Smith's outstanding performance brings intensity and depth to "I, Robot." This movie is perfect for anyone who loves fast-paced stories that explore the dynamics between humans and robots.

#10 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Image of two astronauts inside a spacecraft, facing each other and engaged in a conversation.

IMDb Rating: 8.3 | Rotten Tomatoes: 92% (Critics), 89% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

"2001: A Space Odyssey," directed by Stanley Kubrick, takes you on a journey from prehistoric times to the future. It follows a space mission to Jupiter, guided by the super-intelligent computer HAL 9000. The crew faces mysterious monoliths and big questions about evolution, AI, and existence.

Why It's Awesome

"2001: A Space Odyssey" is a timeless classic and the oldest movie on our list. With its pioneering special effects and deep dive into tech and consciousness, this movie truly is a masterpiece that explores humanity's place in the universe.

#9 The Iron Giant (1999)

Image of the Iron Giant crouching down interacting with a small boy

IMDb Rating: 8.1 | Rotten Tomatoes: 96% (Critics), 90% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Set in the 1950s, "The Iron Giant" tells the heartwarming story of a young boy named Hogarth who discovers and befriends a giant robot from outer space. As the unlikely duo bonds, they must navigate the fears and prejudices of a small town and the government's determination to destroy the giant. The film beautifully explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the fear of the unknown.

Why It's Awesome

With its extremely high rating, this animated classic beautifully combines depth and emotion, exploring unlikely friendships and the power of acceptance. With its touching narrative and stunning animation, it offers a message about humanity and the impact of technology.

#8 Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Image of the Terminator point a shotgun at an unknown target whilst seated on a motorbike

IMDb Rating: 8.6 | Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics), 94% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In this sequel, a reprogrammed Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is sent back in time to protect John Connor, the future leader of the human resistance, from a more advanced and deadly Terminator, the T-1000.

Why It's Awesome

"Terminator 2" (and the whole Terminator franchise) is perfect for anyone who loves action, mind-bending sci-fi, and iconic pop culture moments such as "Hasta la vista, baby." Sci-fi fans will geek out over the dystopian future and AI themes, while action junkies get their fix from the intense chase scenes and explosive battles.

#7 Ghost in the Shell (1995)

Image of a female cyborg being programmed

IMDb Rating: 8.0 | Rotten Tomatoes: 96% (Critics), 89% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In a dystopian future, Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg policewoman, is on the trail of the Puppet Master, a mysterious and powerful hacker. This anime classic dives deep into themes of identity, consciousness, and the blend of technology and humanity.

Why It's Awesome

If you're a fan of cyberpunk and love stories that explore identity and technology, this animated masterpiece is for you. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and visually striking anime.

#6 Wall-E (2008)

Image of Wall E holding a ring

IMDb Rating: 8.4 | Rotten Tomatoes: 95% (Critics), 89% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

In a future where Earth is uninhabitable, Wall-E, a small waste-collecting robot, spends his days cleaning up the planet. His routine life gets a major shake-up when he meets EVE, a robot on a mission. Together, they embark on a space adventure that could change humanity's fate. This film beautifully blends themes of environmentalism and the importance of human connection, all through the eyes of two endearing robots.

Why It's Awesome

If you're a techie who loves animation and heartwarming stories, "Wall-E" is a gem. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys visually stunning films with a meaningful message about caring for our planet and the power of companionship. Whether you're watching with family or on your own, this movie is a delightful, thought-provoking journey that resonates across all ages. Be prepared for a few tear-jerking moments!

#5 Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

Image of Image of the protagonist Ryan Gosling sitting in a futuristic car

IMDb Rating: 8.0 | Rotten Tomatoes: 88% (Critics), 81% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), a new Blade Runner, uncovers a secret that could throw society into chaos. He sets out to find Rick Deckard, a former Blade Runner who's been missing for 30 years.

Why It's Awesome

As a sequel to the iconic "Blade Runner," the film carries forward the legacy of its predecessor and does a smashing job! All the while introducing new elements and thought-provoking ideas.

Fun Fact: Despite the heavy use of CGI, the filmmakers used miniatures to create many of the cityscape shots. This gave the film a more realistic feel, staying true to the aesthetic of the original "Blade Runner."

#4 Ex Machina (2014)

Image of Ava, the humanoid robot conversing with a woman

IMDb Rating: 7.7 | Rotten Tomatoes: 92% (Critics), 86% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

A young programmer, Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson), is selected to administer a Turing test to an intelligent humanoid robot named Ava, created by his reclusive CEO, Nathan. As Caleb interacts with Ava, he discovers the disturbing extent of her abilities and the manipulative nature of her creator, leading to a tense psychological thriller.

Why It's Awesome

"Ex Machina" captivates you with its gripping storyline and thought-provoking concepts. Its eerie setting creates a tense atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Exploring the possibilities and dangers of artificial intelligence, "Ex Machina" makes you question what it means to be human.

#3 The Matrix (1999)

Image of Neo and Trinity confidently walking through a dimmly lit building

IMDb Rating: 8.8 | Rotten Tomatoes: 87% (Critics), 91% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Have you ever wondered if reality is truly real? In "The Matrix," Neo (Keanu Reeves), a computer hacker, discovers his life is actually a simulated reality created by intelligent machines to control humans while using their bodies as energy sources. With Morpheus and Trinity by his side, Neo dives into the fight against the machines, trying to uncover the truth about his existence. This movie is legendary for its game-changing special effects, especially the epic "bullet time" scenes.

Why It's Awesome

This movie is legendary for its game-changing special effects, especially the epic "bullet time" scenes. It's a mind-bending journey that will have you doubting your own reality. This film redefined the genre and will keep you questioning everything long after the credits roll. And let's be real, what list of AI movies would be complete without "The Matrix"?

#2 Interstellar (2014)

Image of Cooper, played by Matthew McConaughey in a space suit

IMDb Rating: 8.7 | Rotten Tomatoes: 72% (Critics), 85% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

Imagine Earth is on the brink, with crops failing and dust storms choking the planet. Enter Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), a former pilot who gets a once-in-a-lifetime call from NASA: Find a new home for humanity. He and his team venture through a wormhole near Saturn, exploring uncharted territories in space. Their journey, assisted by the advanced robot TARS, isn't just a test of endurance and science but also of the emotional bonds that hold them together as they navigate the unknown.

Why It's Awesome

As a self-confessed sci-fi nerd who grew up watching epic space sagas like Star Wars, "Interstellar" blew my mind. It's an emotional rollercoaster set against a backdrop of stunning cosmic visuals. This one's for anyone who likes grand narratives that tackle big philosophical questions about our place in the universe and what it means to survive. Plus, it's the highest-ranking movie on our list, according to IMDb, so you know it's a must-watch!

#1 Her (2013)

Image of Theodore, played by Joaquin Phoenix sitting at his computer looking lonely

IMDb Rating: 8.0 | Rotten Tomatoes: 94% (Critics), 82% (Audience)

What's This Movie About?

If you're reading this list, you most likely love AI, but have you fallen 'in' love with AI? In near-future LA, Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix), a lonely writer, does just that. His new operating system, Samantha, voiced by a deliciously silky-sounding Scarlett Johansson, isn't your typical AI. She evolves, learns, and grows, pushing Theodore to reexamine his ideas of love, companionship, and what it means to be human.

Why It's Awesome

"Her" stands out for its emotional and thought-provoking narrative, which explores the complexities of human connections in an age of AI. The movie challenges us to rethink where the future, with AI so easily accessible, may take us.

Why It's Our Number One Pick

"Her" is a journey that questions what love really means and how we connect with others, no matter their physical form. Joaquin Phoenix's heartfelt performance, combined with the film's incredible storyline, earns "Her" the top spot on our Top 25 Technology and AI Movies list.

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Gareth Shelwell

An Operations Manager and movie connoisseur dedicated to helping you safely swim amongst the internet of phish!

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