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Operator is a compelling and thought-provoking movie from 2016 that delves deep into the complexities of modern relationships set in a tech-savvy landscape. Directed by Logan Kibens, the movie stars Martin Starr (Silicon Valley, Freaks and Geeks), Mae Whitman (Parenthood, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World), and Nat Faxon (The Descendants, Sex Tape).

The film follows Joe (Starr), a programmer who is married to Emily (Whitman), a customer service representative for a high-end appliance company. Joe has developed an artificial intelligence program modeled after Emily's voice to carry out her job, aiming to reduce her workload and provide her with more free time. However, when Joe becomes obsessed with his creation, Emily is left feeling neglected and undervalued, leading to a series of escalating tensions and conflicts.

At its core, the movie explores the impact of technology on our interpersonal relationships and questions the ethics of replacing human labor with machines. It raises important questions about the boundaries between work and personal life, the value of emotional labor, and the limits of technology in solving problems of intimacy and connection.

The performances of Martin Starr and Mae Whitman stand out in the movie, both delivering nuanced and vulnerable portrayals of characters caught in a technological and emotional tug-of-war. Starr's portrayal of Joe is both sympathetic and unsettling, as he descends into an obsessive pursuit of his creation at the expense of his real-life relationships. Whitman, on the other hand, offers a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating the challenges of balancing work and personal life, expressing her frustrations and insecurities with a raw and authentic vulnerability.

Another highlight of the movie is its stunning visual design, showcasing the slick and impersonal aesthetic of the tech industry to contrast with the emotionally charged and intimate moments between characters. The movie has a distinct, mesmerizing cinematography that effectively captures the cold, artificial atmosphere of the tech world while also conveying the warmth and humanity of the characters.

The movie touches on several heavy themes such as emotional labor, addiction, and the nature of human relationships. Despite its heavy subject matter, Operator is not overly preachy or didactic, instead presenting its themes in a way that invites the audience to engage with them critically and thoughtfully.

Overall, Operator is a compelling and thought-provoking movie that uses the world of technology to explore the complexities of modern relationships. With excellent performances, stunning cinematography, and a nuanced exploration of important themes, it is an engaging and insightful film that will resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the struggle of balancing career and personal relationships.

Operator is a 2016 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.