Ok, first off, let me tell you I liked the movie. I�m a really big fan of all movies by Robert Rodriguez. Ok had to get that out. Now check this out.
In the movie, there is a man, a real tyrant of a man, a real dictator, who has his vision, and is the founder of a technology company that makes a �black� device. This device was designed to revolutionize the world. �Mr. Black� wants one of these boxes in every household in America. He runs a tight ship, telling and threatening his employees, pitting them against each other and firing them on a whim. He wants this device to be perfect and exactly as he envisions it. He proclaims this device will be the personal connection device for people to the entire world.
This device is the jack of all trades gizmo, it changes into whatever you need, from a hair dryer, a baby monitor and even a cell phone. People get totally addicted to this device and can�t seem to put it down, ever. Husbands and wives text each other while in the bedroom in lieu of actually talking or interacting with each other. The thing isn�t without its problems, however. Battery life is said to be horrible, and the cell phone functionality is horrible. People drop calls and even say how they hate when they have to use it as a phone.
If you aren�t following the parallels here, let me point them out for you. Apple makes the iPhone which is now considered to be the device, the device of everything. You can use it as a phone, of course, and you won�t hear a person out there say anything good about that function. Battery life, same deal, one of the biggest gripes of the iPhone. Is it addicting? You bet. People have been hit by cars when walking across the street while typing away on their iPhones. Steve Jobs is widely known as one of the greatest inventors and designers of all time, however along with that he has picked up the reputation for being somewhat, one-minded in the way he works. His way, or the highway, putting it mildly.
I think Rodriguez has done a masterful job of putting together a film for kids, and at the same time including a strong social lesson for adults. Unplug, disconnect and live life now.
