In this Movie Memory Machine: Five For mini-episode, Landen and Truman attempt to recover from Simone (aka S1M0NE) by spotlighting five films that do a better job exploring fame, technology, artificial intelligence, and the surreal nightmare of modern media. From the precision of The Truman Show to the spiraling ego of Synecdoche, New York, these picks offer richer commentary, stronger characters, and (most importantly) more compelling digital women.

Films Discussed:

The Truman Show (1998)

Synecdoche, New York (2008)

Frankenstein (1931)

Being There (1979)

The Player (1992)

Topics Covered:

Jim Carrey’s earnest turn and how Truman Show aged like fine satire

Philip Seymour Hoffman’s artistic self-destruction in Kaufman’s meta masterpiece

Frankenstein as a proto-AI cautionary tale (and union icon!)

Being There’s commentary on projection, media, and perceived intelligence

Altman’s The Player and why Simone couldn’t touch its Hollywood cynicism

Key Takeaways:

Simone isn't about AI—it’s about Al Pacino making excuses

The Truman Show actually follows through on its premise, unlike Simone

Frankenstein walked so Simone could... trip over its own concept

Being There proves how we project meaning onto blank slates

The Player exposes Hollywood without needing a fake digital actress

Listener Prompt:

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