Movies have been our gateway to worlds for more than a century. Some of these worlds are rooted in reality while others are born out of imagination.. What happens when these cinematic dreams start influencing our everyday lives not just as storylines but as actual products and technologies? Blockbuster films have often served as a glimpse into the future showcasing devices and ideas that eventually paved the way for real life innovations.
Video Calls
An example of this can be seen in Ridley Scotts’ dystopian film “Blade Runner ” set in a futuristic 2019. In the movie Harrison Fords character Rick Deckard uses a payphone to make video calls, which seemed advanced in 1982. However four decades later video calls have become an integral part of our lives. Platforms like Zoom, Skype and FaceTime have not made this once fictional technology a reality but have also become essential tools for global communication—especially during times of remote work and social distancing.
Augmented Reality
Another instance can be found in “Back to the Future II ” where young Marty McFly dons glasses that resemble early versions of augmented reality (AR) and smart eyewear. Today tech giants like Google with its Google Glass and Snapchat, with its Spectacles have introduced their iterations of this technology.
Moreover augmented reality (AR) has expanded its applications beyond eyewear and has become instrumental in enhancing shopping experiences, gaming and even medical training.
Holograms
Lets take a moment to appreciate the scene from “Star Wars; A New Hope” where Princess Leia communicates through a holographic message delivered by R2 D2. This visual representation of 3D holography captivated audiences. Although we haven’t achieved fully realistic humanoid holograms yet technologies such as Microsofts HoloLens and captivating holographic concerts are gradually making this once futuristic concept accessible to all.
Screen Devices
In Stanley Kubricks masterpiece “2001; A Space Odyssey ” he envisioned astronauts using portable screen devices that resemble todays tablets. With the advent of devices like Apples iPad, Samsungs Galaxy Tabs and numerous other tablets not have we turned this vision into reality but also refined it. These modern tablets have revolutionized how we consume media work efficiently and enjoy activities.
Personalized advertising
The movie “Minority Report” introduced us to a world where billboards and advertisements possess an uncanny ability to personalize their messages according to individuals. They recognize people on a level and tailor their content accordingly. Today with the advancements in data analysis powered by artificial intelligence (AI) personalized advertising has become the norm. Online ads are now tailored based on users browsing habits, preferences, demographics—creating a customized experience for each individual.
The knit relationship, between cinema and technology is undeniably remarkable.
Filmmakers draw inspiration from the progress of technology and their imaginative portrayals also spark ideas, for inventors and entrepreneurs. It’s a fusion of art and science where imagination meets engineering. As we eagerly anticipate the major blockbuster it’s intriguing to ponder which technological advancements it might foreshadow or inspire.
