Millicent Simmonds Stars in AI Thriller 'Alone'

Filmmaker Garrett Patten has completed principal photography for his new psychological thriller short, 'Alone.' The film stars BAFTA-nominated Millicent Simmonds as Samantha, a deaf woman whose life becomes complicated when she receives an advanced humanoid robot. As the machine learns Samantha's routines and emotions, their connection grows increasingly dark and unsettling.

The project boasts a majority deaf cast, including Oscar winner Troy Kotsur and Emmy nominee Nyle DiMarco. Two-time Tony winner Phylicia Rashad also stars. The short film, co-written by Patten and Tiziano Tucci, was filmed in Brooklyn and is now in post-production.

Patten expressed that 'Alone' was an extraordinary project, highlighting the depth brought by the cast. The film explores themes of AI, isolation, connection, and our reliance on technology. The filmmakers are reportedly hoping to develop 'Alone' into a feature film, ideally with the original cast.

'What begins as a story about a woman and a machine ultimately asks some very human questions about companionship and how far we're willing to let technology into our lives,' Patten stated. He expressed pride in the creation and anticipation for its post-production phase.