Jenna Ortega Says She Hopes ‘Klara and the Sun’ Encourages People to ‘Put Down the Computers and Phones’ as Dystopian Film World Premieres in London
Jenna Ortega says she hopes *Klara and the Sun* encourages people to be present with one another and put down their phones. The film, which premiered at the London Film Festival, explores artificial intelligence and human connection in a future shaped by genetic engineering and social divisions.
Ortega plays Klara, an artificial companion bought for an ill girl, Josie, played by Mia Tharia. Directed by Taika Waititi and based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2021 novel, the film also stars Amy Adams, Aran Murphy, Natasha Lyonne and Steve Buscemi. Ishiguro said public attitudes towards AI have shifted since the novel appeared, but described the film as distinct from stories in which AI turns sinister; he also confirmed he is developing a separate project with Tim Burton.
- Ortega hopes the film prompts people to put down their phones.
- The story follows an android companion and an ill girl.
- Ishiguro says the film is not a tale of AI turning sinister.
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Klara and the Sun is based on a 2021 novel by British writer Kazuo Ishiguro. It is set in a future where genetic engineering shapes people’s opportunities and some families buy artificial companions to keep their children company.
Jenna Ortega plays Klara, an artificial companion bought for Josie, an ill girl played by Mia Tharia. The film is directed by Taika Waititi and also features Amy Adams, Natasha Lyonne and Steve Buscemi.
The story explores how people relate to artificial intelligence and to one another. Its setting raises questions about technology, illness and social divisions, while Klara’s bond with Josie brings human connection into focus.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Ortega’s hope reflects concern that constant phone and computer use can distract people from face-to-face relationships and shared experiences. A story about an artificial companion may prompt audiences to consider what human connection offers and to make more room for it in daily life.
The case against
Computers and phones also help people maintain relationships, find information and access support, so putting them aside is not always practical or desirable. The film’s themes need not imply that technology itself weakens human connection; the more useful question may be how people use it and what social conditions shape that use.
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