Set in a subtly futuristic Los Angeles, Her centers on a romantic relationship between a man named Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) and a new artificial intelligence program named Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johannsen). Theodore, a melancholy writer who is painfully extricating himself from a failed (human) marriage, finds comfort and comradery in his vocal interactions with Sam almost immediately after installing her. The relationship swiftly intensifies. Theodore talks to Sam constantly, letting her in on his most intimate moments and asking her opinions on a myriad of topics. He takes her on dates and even finds ways to engage with her sexually, despite being limited by her lack of body. Ultimately, the film’s climax rests in the popular idea machines that reach human-level intelligence will develop beyond it relatively quickly. In Her, this evolution is depicted as an invisible exodus of these intelligent programs from human life. Circumstances that are beyond Theodore and other humans’ understanding or control thus cause Samantha to leave Theodore’s life.

This film is significant first in its characterization of artificial intelligence. Rather than being endowed with a name and purpose by a power-hungry programmer, Samantha is given the opportunity to name herself and thus to self-identify (though Theodore does get to choose her gender beforehand). She retains this level of autonomy throughout the film, and sometimes surprises Theodore by exercising her agency. Yet instead of this agency eventually leading to the dystopic end of humanity (as it probably would in any 1980s sci-fi film), it leads to Samantha developing as a being and eventually evolving past her relationship with Theodore.

Additionally, the film is notable for its ability to convince viewers of a powerful romantic connection between a human and a machine. The strength of this relationship is highlighted most notably by the juxtaposition of their sexual interactions with those between Theodore and human women. What common sense first tells you is fabricated becomes just as relatable in its development and heart-wrenching in its dissolution as any relationship between humans.