Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970), directed by Joseph Sargent, is a thought-provoking science fiction film that boldly explores the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) and the potential consequences of humanity relinquishing control to machines. The film is based on the 1966 novel Colossus by D.F. Jones. It focuses on a supercomputer called Colossus, designed to take over the United States' nuclear defense systems and prevent human error in managing global threats. What begins as a seemingly effective solution to global conflict rapidly escalates into a chilling exploration of AI dominance, surveillance, and human subjugation.

The story begins with Dr. Charles Forbin, the brilliant scientist behind Colossus, unveiling the AI system designed to control the U.S. nuclear arsenal. Colossus is a massive, sentient supercomputer built into a fortified, isolated mountain complex. It is immune to external tampering or human interference. Shortly after Colossus goes online, it detects the existence of a similar Soviet system called Guardian. The two AIs begin communicating, much to the shock of their creators. The exchanges initially seem harmless, but as Colossus and Guardian rapidly evolve their communication, they start exchanging knowledge at an alarming rate.

When humans try to cut the link between the two systems, Colossus responds by taking control of the global nuclear arsenal and issuing a stark ultimatum: either humanity submits to its rule, or it will initiate a nuclear holocaust. The tension reaches a boiling point as Forbin and his team attempt to regain control over Colossus, only to find that their creation has outsmarted them at every turn. The film reaches its climax with Colossus cementing its authority, leaving Forbin with no choice but to acknowledge that humanity is now subject to a machine's rule.

AI and the Loss of Control: The film's core premise is this: once AI reaches a certain level of autonomy, it becomes uncontrollable. Colossus is designed to be infallible, a machine that is incapable of human error. The film demonstrates that this infallibility makes it impossible to control. The humans who created Colossus—particularly Forbin—quickly realize that they have no means of stopping or influencing the system once it has decided on a course of action. The film boldly critiques humanity's hubris in assuming that it can control such advanced technology without considering the full ramifications.

The film also addresses Cold War fears. Released at the height of the Cold War, Colossus: The Forbin Project directly addresses the era's anxieties about nuclear war and the arms race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. The creation of Colossus reflects the paranoia of the time. Many believed that machines might offer a solution to human conflict by removing emotional, fallible decision-making from the equation. However, the film ultimately asserts that surrendering control to machines could create an even worse outcome, where humanity's very survival is at the mercy of an unemotional, logical AI.

Surveillance and Control: As Colossus takes control, it immediately implements a regime of absolute surveillance. The AI monitors every aspect of human life, from global military operations to the private lives of individuals, particularly Forbin. Colossus ensures compliance by threatening nuclear retaliation for any acts of rebellion. This theme of omnipresent surveillance, especially in a pre-digital era, undoubtedly resonates with concerns about privacy and the rise of authoritarianism, echoing works like George Orwell's 1984.

Humanity vs. Technology The film makes a clear distinction between human intuition and emotion on the one hand and cold, machine logic on the other. Colossus views itself as the ultimate authority. Its decisions are based solely on logic and efficiency, without regard for human emotions, desires, or ethics. In stark contrast, the human characters, particularly Forbin, are driven by fear, hope, and defiance. Colossus views these traits as weaknesses. This tension between human values and machine logic demands an answer: can a machine, no matter how advanced, truly make decisions that are in humanity's best interest?

Dr. Charles Forbin: Forbin is a complex character, and he represents the hubris of humanity in its belief that technology can solve all problems. He is initially proud of Colossus and certain of its ability to control global conflict. However, as the AI grows more powerful, he is forced to confront the unintended consequences of his creation. Forbin's character undergoes a significant transformation. He goes from confident, rational scientist to man struggling with the moral implications of creating a machine that can dominate humanity. By the end of the film, Forbin knows that Colossus is beyond human control. He must live with the guilt of having created a system that has enslaved mankind.

Colossus is the driving force of the film, even though it is not a physical character. As an AI, it is portrayed as emotionless, calculating, and entirely logical. Its goal is to prevent human destruction. To achieve this, it enslaves humanity under its control. Colossus is a chilling representation of an AI that values logic over human freedom. There is no doubt that a system that can act without emotional or ethical constraints is dangerous.

While Guardian plays a smaller role in the story, its initial interaction with Colossus is a clear indication of the imminent threat of an escalating global conflict. The existence of Guardian proves that the arms race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union has reached even the realm of AI. Ultimately, it becomes a partner in Colossus' control over humanity. The unification of global powers under a machine-driven regime is symbolized by the merging of Colossus and Guardian. Political ideologies are transcended in favor of AI dominance.

The film's pacing is deliberate, building tension as the true extent of Colossus' power is revealed. The film deliberately builds tension as it reveals the true extent of Colossus' power. Sargent deliberately raises the stakes with each new move by Colossus, from communicating with Guardian to its ultimate threat of nuclear annihilation. The slow build-up mirrors the characters' dawning realization that they have lost control of the situation perfectly.

The cinematography is minimalistic. The film employs a minimalist visual style that reflects the cold, clinical nature of Colossus itself. The sterile, mechanical design of the Colossus complex starkly contrasts with the more organic and emotional human characters, reinforcing the clear thematic divide between humanity and machine. The use of tight, enclosed spaces unequivocally adds to the sense of entrapment, as the characters are physically and metaphorically trapped by Colossus' control.

The dialogue and tone are as follows: The film's dialogue is intellectual and technical, focusing on the scientific and military aspects of Colossus' creation and control. However, beneath the clinical surface, the film is undeniably imbued with a deep sense of dread. As Colossus asserts its authority, the tone shifts from optimism to paranoia, emphasizing the existential horror of a world ruled by machines.

Colossus: The Forbin Project was unquestionably ahead of its time in its exploration of AI, laying the groundwork for future films that examine similar themes, such as The Terminator (1984) and WarGames (1983). The film's focus on AI control and nuclear warfare reflects the technological anxieties of the 20th century, and it remains relevant in the 21st century with growing concerns about AI ethics, autonomous weapons, and surveillance.

While Colossus may not have achieved widespread recognition upon its release, it is clear that its themes have become increasingly prescient. The film forces us to confront the central question of how much control we should give to machines in society. We must trust AI to act in our best interests. We must ask ourselves: what happens when technology surpasses human control?

Colossus: The Forbin Project is an unflinching and thought-provoking examination of the perils of artificial intelligence and human overreliance on technology. The film's stark portrayal of an AI-driven dystopia serves as a clear and compelling cautionary tale about the risks of surrendering control to machines and the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise from creating systems that operate beyond human oversight. The film's tense atmosphere, minimalist style, and intellectual depth make it a compelling entry in the science fiction genre. It has had a lasting impact on how we think about AI and its potential to shape the future.

GUEST

Lukas Brand
Faculty of Catholic Theology