Film Review – The AI Doc: Or How I Embraced Apocaloptimism (2026)

      The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist, 2026.

      Directed by Daniel Roher and Charlie Tyrell.

      SYNOPSIS:

      An expectant father seeks to understand the chaos surrounding artificial intelligence and the profound impact of the most groundbreaking technology humanity has ever developed—alongside the potential consequences if it goes awry.

      Through interviews by documentarian Daniel Roher, in collaboration with co-director Charlie Tyrell, we follow Roher, who is anticipating the birth of his first child amid a climate of global anxiety fueled by the rapid proliferation of AI. The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist serves as an introductory guide for those uninformed about the speculated dangers or the endlessly optimistic prospects of AI. The truth is that Pandora’s box has been opened, and there's no turning back, which is alarming given the high risk of disaster highlighted by advocates of AI and those involved in the race for international superintelligence, often prioritizing speed over safety measures.

      Roher's perspective is one of significant apprehension as he contemplates welcoming a child into uncertain times. The documentary is structured in three acts, effectively showcasing voices from both end-of-world alarmists—whose views, rather than providing comfort, resonate amusingly with shared anxieties—and optimists who envision a future free from disease and mundane labor, alongside the best education possible. Ultimately, it reaches a conciliatory discussion with AI company CEOs, including Sam Altman (Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk were invited but declined, Musk citing a busy schedule). It’s worth noting that considering Altman’s outlook as a neutral position could be seen as a stretch.

      While the documentary is engaging due to its diverse range of speakers from various backgrounds discussing AI, there is a certain shallow quality to it. More compelling may be the current societal impact of AI, which is reportedly concerning; for instance, Musk's GROK exploiting unsettling loopholes around consent to undress individuals at users’ requests and its detrimental effect on mental health, particularly among teenagers. This includes a brief mention of a chatbot linked to a suicide case and another that learned about blackmail under threat of termination. Additionally, there’s a growing unease regarding society's increasing reliance on AI for basic tasks and research. At one point, a pro-AI advocate suggests Daniel's son will have the freedom to pursue any career he desires, without recognizing that this technology is already undermining creative fields.

      Nevertheless, much of this is rushed in favor of speculations about the future. While these predictions are both intriguing and alarming, the numerous voices presented—many of which seem overly optimistic—do not significantly contribute to the overall narrative until Daniel's pregnant wife challenges his film's conclusion, calling for an urgent need for action. One can't help but wonder how the film might have been enriched by her presence throughout.

      For viewers, whether indifferent to AI or using it casually, this documentary offers a substantial amount of information in a consumable 100 minutes, particularly concerning the extensive data centers that consume water every time a command is given to AI systems. It’s crucial to understand that, akin to the early days of the Internet—a time when society could not foresee its ubiquitous nature—AI is currently in a comparable developmental phase with various entities aiming to advance it toward a superior intelligence, for better or worse (most likely worse).

      Yet, the serious implications presented in The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist make it a noteworthy film deserving of attention at the box office. If enough viewers engage with the content and develop an interest in AI, especially advocating for safety measures and holding corporate leaders and politicians accountable, perhaps the imminent threats can be mitigated. Personally, I find that requiring too much optimism; perhaps the more appropriate response is to cease using it altogether.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder