Festival documentaries encompassed a wide range of genres, with a particular focus on the human desire to connect with departed loved ones. The traditional categorization of cinema into movies and documentaries oversimplifies the diverse nature of nonfiction films. Documentaries can span various genres like comedy, romance, horror, and even create unique hybrid genres. Despite this, American audiences are often exposed to a limited range of documentary themes, such as true crime, cult investigations, hero worship, and informative presentations dominated by interviews.
However, the landscape of nonfiction cinema is much richer and more varied. While Sundance may attract attention with celebrity-driven biographies, there is a wealth of other nonfiction content awaiting audiences, some of which will find their way to theaters and streaming platforms in the coming years. A select few may even vie for recognition at the prestigious Oscars.
The documentaries showcased at this year’s Sundance Festival demonstrated a playful blending of genres while consistently highlighting a common motif: the human yearning for communication with the deceased and the innovative methods, including technological advancements, employed to facilitate this connection.
Two standout films, “Love Machina” and “Eternal You,” were notably curated to complement each other. “Love Machina,” directed by Peter Sillen, delves into the ambitious project of Martine and Bina Rothblatt, a married couple endeavoring to construct an AI-powered robotic replica of Bina. This creation aims to preserve Bina’s essence, enabling future generations to interact with her after her passing. On the other hand, “Eternal You,” helmed by Hans Block and Moritz Riesewieck, explores the expanding market for afterlife technologies that facilitate posthumous communication through artificial intelligence, echoing the themes of a “Black Mirror” episode and cautioning against the potential ethical implications.
Renowned sociologist Sherry Turkle, featured in the documentaries, draws parallels between AI and traditional religious beliefs, noting how both offer a sense of transcendence and connection beyond mortality. Another standout film, “Look Into My Eyes,” directed by Lana Wilson, immerses viewers in the world of New York City psychics who aid clients in communicating with departed loved ones through spiritual means. The documentary delves into the psychics’ motivations, beliefs, and the profound impact of their work on those seeking solace. It raises thought-provoking questions about the authenticity of their practice and the comfort it provides to those left behind.
