Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World is a 2016 documentary film directed and produced by Werner Herzog that explores the transformative effects of the internet on human life. The film features interviews with tech leaders like Elon Musk, Lawrence Krauss, and Lucianne Walkowicz.
The film is split into ten chapters, each exploring a different aspect of the internet's impact on society. The first chapter, titled "The Early Days," looks back on the first message sent over the internet in 1969 and how it paved the way for the interconnected world we know today.
In "The Glory of the Net," the film examines the incredible opportunities provided by the internet, from access to information to the democratization of knowledge. This chapter features interviews with prominent tech leaders and scholars, who comment on the ways in which the internet has changed society and culture.
"The Dark Side" explores the dangers of the internet, such as cyberbullying, identity theft, and the dissemination of misinformation. In this chapter, Herzog interviews victims of online abuse and highlights the stark contrast between the internet's utopic ideals and the reality of its darker corners.
"Artificial Intelligence" examines the growing field of AI and its potential to transform society. Herzog interviews experts in the field who discuss the possible consequences of a future dominated by machines and considers whether or not humans can control their creations.
In "The End of Privacy," the film explores the ways in which the internet has eroded personal privacy. The chapter includes interviews with victims of hackings and data breaches and highlights the difficult balance between convenience and privacy.
"Connected to the Future" looks at how the internet will continue to impact society in the years to come. Herzog interviews tech leaders and scientists who discuss the possibilities provided by the internet and the challenges facing its continued growth.
"Earthly Invaders" examines the effects of the internet beyond our planet. Herzog interviews NASA scientists who explain how the internet has allowed us to explore space in ways never before possible.
Next, "The Internet of Me" explores the implications of a world where everything is connected to the internet, from our bodies to our homes. Herzog interviews experts who discuss the benefits and dangers of a hyper-connected world.
In "The Future," Herzog asks his interviewees to speculate on what the internet will look like in a hundred years. The film closes with a reflection on the power of human curiosity and the never-ending quest for knowledge.
Overall, Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World is a fascinating examination of the internet's impact on society. Through interviews with tech leaders and experts, Herzog explores both the utopic potential and the darker side of the internet, leaving viewers with a deeper understanding of our interconnected world.
