I’m Your Man

Directed by Maria Schrader (2021)

Film Review by KM, Movie Lightbox

Quite a good experience at times when you are watching a film and just casually observing social interactions within scenes, be it a dance, a conversation or characters asking questions, trying to dig deeper into their personalities. But this time, it’s between a woman and a robot in Maria Schrader’s affecting and humurous science fiction romance “I’m Your Man”.

Alma, an archeologist studying cuneiform tablets finds herself on a process to evaluate a humanoid, a robot designed to be her “ideal partner” played by Dan Stevens in a plain sailing performance. The interplay between Alma and Tom provides an apprehension when you have someone trying to give all the satisfaction you need, from simple gestures or acknowledgement to complex interactions. Alma, played by Maren Eggert perfectly conveys those feelings of fear, frustration and appreciation. Within the process of evaluating her humanoid partner, there’s also that subtle process of evaluating her own self, an examination of how she would accept or reject the idea of having someone programmed to fulfill her longings, desires and the feeling of being alone.

I’m Your Man carefully explores the “ideal partner” scenario. The clever script and direction by Maria Schrader seeks to analyze who we are within the confines of these advances in technology and the consequences of those interactions. The film through its main character’s background, lays out questions on the sources of our humanity. That within those unfilfilled longings, aspirations or happiness, there’s something human in knowing that we may not be able to attain some of those things.

I’m Your Man is now playing in select streaming services.

*Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance, Maren Eggert, Berlinale 2021