In the realm of science fiction, artificial intelligence (AI) has long been a staple, often depicted as a force that can revolutionize or even disrupt our lives. This curated list of films delves into the fascinating intersection of AI and education, showcasing how filmmakers envision the future of learning. From heartwarming tales of AI teachers to dystopian visions of automated education systems, these movies offer a spectrum of possibilities and provoke thought on how AI might shape the educational landscape. Whether you're a teacher, student, or just a curious cinephile, these films provide a captivating look into what could be the future of our classrooms.

The Substitute (1996)
Description: While not strictly sci-fi, this film features a substitute teacher with a twist, exploring themes of discipline and control, which can be paralleled to AI's potential role in education.
Fact: The film was Tom Berenger's first lead role in a theatrical release in several years, and it was shot in Miami, Florida.


The Matrix (1999)
Description: While primarily known for its action, "The Matrix" explores themes of reality, simulation, and education through AI, with characters learning martial arts and other skills via direct neural interface.
Fact: The film's "bullet time" effect was a groundbreaking visual technique that has since been widely imitated.


A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001)
Description: The story of David, an AI child, explores themes of learning, identity, and the role of AI in human development and education.
Fact: The film was originally conceived by Stanley Kubrick, but was completed by Steven Spielberg after Kubrick's death.


The Terminal (2004)
Description: Though not directly about AI in education, the film features a character who learns English through unconventional means, hinting at the potential of AI in language acquisition.
Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in the departure lounge of Terminal One at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years.


Ex Machina (2014)
Description: This film delves into AI's ability to learn, adapt, and potentially teach, with the AI character Ava showing remarkable intelligence and learning capabilities.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location, a remote house in Norway, to create an isolated, controlled environment for the story.


Surrogates (2009)
Description: In this film, AI-controlled surrogates allow people to live through them, raising questions about identity and the role of AI in shaping personal development and education.
Fact: The movie is based on the graphic novel "The Surrogates" by Robert Venditti and Brett Weldele.


Her (2013)
Description: "Her" explores a future where an AI operating system can teach, learn, and even fall in love, showcasing the potential for AI to be an educational companion.
Fact: Scarlett Johansson's voice for the AI character Samantha was recorded after the film was shot, allowing for a more natural interaction with Theodore.


The Congress (2013)
Description: This animated/live-action hybrid explores a future where actors' likenesses are used in virtual reality, touching on themes of AI in entertainment and education.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Futurological Congress" by Stanisław Lem.


Transcendence (2014)
Description: While focusing on AI's potential to transcend human limitations, the film touches on the idea of AI as a teacher and a source of knowledge.
Fact: The film was Johnny Depp's first major sci-fi role since "The Astronaut's Wife" in


Upgrade (2018)
Description: In this cyberpunk thriller, an AI chip implanted in a man's spine teaches him to fight, highlighting AI's role in skill acquisition and education.
Fact: The film was shot in Melbourne, Australia, and was the directorial debut of Leigh Whannell, known for his work on the "Saw" franchise.
