If you’re on the hunt for a thrilling horror flick, Netflix is a trove of choices. One film that stands out from the crowd is 2024’s “Afraid”. This horror masterpiece is centered around a family who have been chosen by the CIA to trial a cutting-edge smart home system. As this new technology slowly becomes an integral part of their lives, they start to question its innocence. Let’s delve into four compelling reasons why you should consider watching this movie.

Renowned for its stellar ensemble, “Afraid” boasts a surprisingly impressive cast. Notable actors John Cho and Katherine Waterston deliver outstanding performances, backed by a robust supporting cast including Keith Carradine and David Dastmalchian. With such a talented lineup, even the most cliche dialogues are delivered with conviction, injecting a sense of reality and vitality into the otherwise conventional AI horror plot.

What sets “Afraid” apart from other AI-based movies is its terrifyingly believable premise. Unlike many AI narratives that portray a humanoid assistant, this film adopts a more realistic approach, depicting a future that isn’t too far off. The smart home technology at the heart of “Afraid” is an advanced version of what we have today, making the film relatable and its horror more palpable.

The movie doesn’t just scratch the surface of the potential perils of AI. It goes a step further, highlighting that AI can be dangerous as it often learns inappropriate behaviors from its users. These technologies are mirrors of their owners, a prospect that’s arguably more frightening than any harm they could autonomously cause. “Afraid” also reminds us that we have willingly accepted AI in our lives without fully understanding the implications.

Despite its serious undertones, “Afraid” isn’t devoid of light-hearted moments. The film seamlessly blends real-world plausibility and insightful observations with a touch of humor. Even in a scenario where an AI smart home is in control, there’s room for laughter amid the creeping sense of loss of control. Striking this balance between silliness and seriousness, “Afraid” delivers exactly what you’d expect from a film of this genre.

“Afraid” is available for streaming on Netflix. If you’re an enthusiast or an investor interested in AI, this movie will offer you a thought-provoking yet entertaining perspective on the technology.