Autonomy is a 2019 documentary film that explores the current state of self-driving cars and what the future of transportation may look like. The film is directed by Alex Horwitz and features interviews with notable experts in the automotive industry, including Car and Driver editor-in-chief Eddie Alterman, author and journalist Malcolm Gladwell, and Ray Magliozzi, one half of the popular car-talk radio show, "Car Talk."
Through a mix of interviews, news footage, and animation, Autonomy examines the exciting innovations in autonomous vehicle technology and the challenges that must be overcome to make self-driving cars a reality. The film starts with an overview of the history of transportation, highlighting the major advancements in road safety and fuel efficiency over the years. From there, the film dives into the latest developments in self-driving cars, exploring the different levels of autonomy and the ways in which companies are testing and refining their vehicles.
One of the key ideas explored in the film is the potential impact that self-driving cars could have on society. Proponents argue that autonomous vehicles could greatly reduce the number of accidents caused by human error, while also reducing traffic congestion and improving overall efficiency on the roads. However, there are also concerns over job loss and the potential for increased inequality, as well as the ethical questions surrounding the programming of autonomous vehicles.
Throughout the film, the various interviewees offer their perspectives on these and other issues, providing a comprehensive look at the current state of autonomous vehicle technology. In addition to Alterman, Gladwell, and Magliozzi, the film also features experts from companies like General Motors, Uber, and Waymo, as well as academics and researchers in the field of autonomous vehicles.
Autonomy is an engaging and informative documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in technology, transportation, and the future of society. The film presents a balanced view of the potential benefits and challenges of self-driving cars, highlighting both the excitement and the uncertainty that comes with this rapidly evolving technology. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a tech fanatic, or simply curious about what the future holds, Autonomy is definitely worth a watch.
Autonomy is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.