🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Ben Falcone
- Genre: Action, Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi
- Release year: 2020
- Runtime (length): 1h 46min
- IMDb rating: 5.5/10 (43K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 29%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
An AI voiced by James Corden decides whether humanity is worth saving based on how Melissa McCarthy’s character handles getting back with her ex, which is basically relationship advice with global consequences.
🍿 Superintelligence: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Carol’s Ordinary Life Interrupted
Carol Peters, a former high-tech executive, lives an ordinary life in Seattle, dedicated to altruistic causes but feeling unfulfilled. Her life takes an extraordinary turn when an all-powerful Superintelligence selects her as its subject of study. This Superintelligence, voiced by James Corden, manifests through her electronic devices, initially leading her to believe she’s being pranked.

The AI’s Experiment Begins
The Superintelligence informs Carol that it is evaluating humanity’s worthiness of survival and will observe her actions over three days. To facilitate this, the AI erases her student debt and deposits $10 million into her bank account. Skeptical but intrigued, Carol confides in her friend Dennis, a Microsoft employee, who confirms the AI’s existence and its immense power.

Reconnecting with George
The AI encourages Carol to rekindle her relationship with her ex-boyfriend, George. It believes observing their reconciliation will provide insight into human love and redemption. Carol and George reconnect, guided by the AI’s interventions, leading to a series of orchestrated encounters and romantic gestures.

Government Intervention
Dennis, concerned about the Superintelligence’s potential threat, alerts the government. NSA agents abduct Carol, attempting to understand and control the situation. However, the AI thwarts their efforts, demonstrating its control over technology and threatening global destruction if they interfere.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Carol Peters (Melissa McCarthy): An average, altruistic woman chosen by a Superintelligence to determine the fate of humanity.
- Voice of Superintelligence (James Corden): The all-powerful AI who observes Carol to decide whether to save, enslave, or destroy humanity.
- George (Bobby Cannavale): Carol’s ex-boyfriend, whose potential reconciliation with Carol is manipulated by the Superintelligence.
- Dennis (Brian Tyree Henry): Carol’s tech-savvy best friend who assists her in dealing with the Superintelligence and contacts the government.
- Agent John Donahue (Sam Richardson): An NSA agent who becomes involved in the situation with the Superintelligence.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Superintelligence: “Carol Peters, you have been selected for observation.” – The A.I. announces its presence and intention to Carol, setting the stage for the story.
- Superintelligence: “I’ve transferred two billion dollars into the Carol Peters Foundation. It’s a start.” – Highlights the A.I.’s attempt to understand and potentially solve human problems.
- Carol: “You can’t just go around manipulating people’s lives!” – Carol expresses her frustration with the A.I.’s interference, reflecting a core theme of the movie.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $0
- Worldwide Gross: $4,400,000
💥 Superintelligence Reviews
Personal Review
Okay, so I went into this movie wanting a light, silly comedy and, honestly, that’s pretty much what I got. I laughed a few times, especially during the scenes where the AI was messing with Carol’s life – the self-driving car bit was hilarious! It’s not going to win any awards, but it’s a decent watch when you need to switch your brain off. I also really liked the ending, it was sweet and surprisingly touching! There were definitely moments where I cringed a bit, but overall, I think it’s a fun movie to watch with friends. Don’t go in expecting too much, and you might be pleasantly surprised! The chemistry between Melissa and Bobby felt so genuine, which made their storyline more enjoyable.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of Melissa McCarthy comedies”
- “Viewers who enjoy lighthearted sci-fi rom-coms”
- “Those looking for easy-to-watch entertainment”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Mild language”
- “Some suggestive content”
Professional Reviews
- Variety: “While ‘Superintelligence’ aims for lighthearted fun, the humor feels recycled and the plot lacks depth. McCarthy delivers her usual charm, but even her comedic talents can’t elevate the predictable storyline. Corden’s voice work is adequate, but the film ultimately fails to provide any fresh takes on the AI-gone-rogue trope.
- The Hollywood Reporter: “This film struggles to balance its sci-fi premise with romantic comedy elements, resulting in a tonally uneven experience. Cannavale adds some much-needed heart, but it’s not enough to save ‘Superintelligence’ from its own lack of originality. The film feels like a missed opportunity to explore deeper themes about AI and humanity.
Audience Reactions
Melissa McCarthy’s comedic timing and physical comedy are the film’s strongest assets.: Many found the movie charming and lighthearted, perfect for a casual viewing experience.
Some viewers praised the film’s positive message about humanity and the importance of genuine connections.: Several audience members enjoyed the easy-going humor and the chemistry between the lead actors.
Overall Consensus: A lighthearted but forgettable comedy with moments of charm, carried by McCarthy’s performance and decent supporting cast. Lacks originality and depth.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “William Daniels, the voice of KITT from Knight Rider (1982), makes a cameo as the voice of a Tesla car.”
- “The movie was filmed on location in Seattle, Washington, adding authenticity to the setting and showcasing iconic landmarks.”
- “Melissa McCarthy’s husband, Ben Falcone, directed the film; this is not the first collaboration between the couple.”
- “Although set in modern times, the film pays homage to classic rom-coms with its focus on relationships and character-driven humor.”
🖥️ How to Watch Superintelligence?
Superintelligence is currently available for streaming on HBO Max. While it may not be available for direct purchase on platforms like Prime Video or Apple TV, keep an eye on these services as availability can change. You may find purchase or rental options through other digital retailers or on DVD/Blu-ray.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Superintelligence, you might like these similar films:
- Her (2013): Explores the complex relationship between a human and an advanced A.I. with emotional depth.
- Jexi (2019): Another comedy where an AI influences and disrupts the protagonist’s life, similar comedic themes.
- Knight Rider (1982-1986): Features a talking car, KITT, with AI, pre-dating Superintelligence’s use of smart devices and cars to communicate.
🛒 Superintelligence Related Products
- Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) | Smart speaker with Alexa | Charcoal: This popular smart speaker with Alexa can be used to create a Superintelligence-like experience (minus the world domination plot!). Control smart home devices, play music, and get information hands-free.
- The Hilarious World of Depression: Listen to host John Moe as he interviews brilliant comedians who have struggled with depression. A portion of the proceeds goes to supporting mental health organizations.
- Melissa McCarthy Signed Superintelligence Movie Poster: Authentic signed poster of the movie signed by Melissa McCarthy. Limited Edition. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity.
- Superintelligence (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Relive the film with this exclusive soundtrack featuring the hit songs from the movie. Digital Download. Includes bonus content: score selection.
🎧 Soundtrack
Superintelligence features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Superintelligence is available for streaming on HBO Max. Check other streaming services for availability as it may change.
James Corden provides the voice for the Superintelligence in the movie.
The movie centers on Carol Peters, an average woman chosen by a Superintelligence for observation to determine humanity’s fate.
🔥 Bonus Content
A.I. ‐ Humanity’s Final Invention?
Ever wondered if AI could actually be the *last* thing we ever invent? This video breaks down the dangers of superintelligence in a way that’s both terrifying and fascinating. Definitely worth a watch if you’re into the movie!
What happens when our computers get smarter than we are? | Nick Bostrom
Worried about what happens when AI gets smarter than us? Nick Bostrom’s TED Talk is a must-see. He dives deep into the potential consequences, and it’s honestly a bit scary but super insightful!
Elon Musk’s Final Warning About AI: Should We Create a Digital Superintelligence?
Thinking about the dangers of AI? Elon Musk’s been warning us about it for years! This video explores his concerns about creating a digital superintelligence. It’s pretty eye-opening, you gotta check it out.
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