Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Language, mature themes in timely, eye-opening AI docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Ghost in the Machine
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Through a series of expert interviews ranging from historians and theorists to scientists and researchers, GHOST IN THE MACHINE demystifies artificial intelligence by exploring its troubled past, its present day impact, and its potential future threat on humanity.
Is It Any Good?
A revealing film with an urgent call to action, Ghost in the Machine is required viewing for anyone who uses AI. This effective but sometimes bleak film uncovers the troubling ideology and historical roots of artificial intelligence, whose racist algorithms, discriminatory practices, hate speech, extreme political views, and controversial bias contribute to the constantly-evolving technology.
The ambitious subject matter is gripping as director Valerie Veatch slowly unravels the timeline of events as she exposes the factors and subsequently the effects of "creating a digital monster." With thought-provoking conversations and compelling moral arguments surrounding power, control, intelligence, and godliness, this film urges viewers to challenge their beliefs, seek truth, and change course while there is still time—or be haunted by the consequences when the path is irreversible and the price is nothing less than the future of humanity itself.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what they learned about AI while watching Ghost in the Machine. Did anything surprise you? What did the filmmakers want you to feel about the subject? What expert impacted your viewing the most and why?
Why is it important to look back at the history of artificial intelligence? What does the past tell us about present impact and potential future consequences?
What are some pros and cons of AI? Do you think AI has had a mostly positive or negative impact on our world? On humanity?
What are some potential future concerns we should be aware of when it comes to artificial intelligence? Do you think that AI godhood is possible? What then?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 26, 2026
- On DVD or streaming : September 14, 2026
- Cast : Shazeda Ahmed , Elon Musk , Donald Trump
- Director : Valerie Veatch
- Studio : PBS
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism , STEM ( AI )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Integrity , Self-control
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 11, 2026
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