AUTONOMOUS Review: A Clever AI Horror Thriller That Asks the Right Questions
Autonomous — defined as operating independently without outside control — is an apt title for this inventive independent Micro horror from producer and star Erin Áine and director Kyle Valle.
Structured as 16 short vignettes and filmed entirely in a vertical format, AUTONOMOUS is designed for modern viewing habits, making it an ideal watch on a smartphone or tablet. The story follows Amy and Derek, a couple whose relationship is already showing signs of strain. After a dinner outing with Derek’s parents, they summon a driverless rideshare service called Gomo to take them home. What begins as an uncomfortable ride filled with relationship tension gradually spirals into something far more unsettling.
One of the Autonomous‘s greatest strengths is its accessibility. The episodic structure creates bite-sized chapters that are easy to consume, whether you’re watching at home or on the go. The chemistry between Erin Áine (Amy) and Domenic Jungling (Derek) feels authentic throughout, with dialogue that sounds natural rather than scripted. Their conversations mirror the kinds of discussions many real couples have, making it easy to become invested in their relationship and the growing tension between them.
Beyond its horror elements, AUTONOMOUS offers timely commentary on artificial intelligence and automation. The film cleverly explores society’s growing dependence on technology while highlighting fears surrounding job displacement and human redundancy. There’s an intriguing irony at play: Amy and Derek express concerns about AI, yet they willingly place their trust in autonomous technology to get them safely home. This underlying theme adds depth to the narrative and elevates it beyond a standard horror experience.
Horror fans will find plenty to enjoy here. Autonomous wisely avoids relying on excessive gore or shock value, instead focusing on atmosphere and psychological unease. The first act is particularly engaging, drawing viewers into the story before gradually escalating the tension. Fans of the 2003 cult horror film Dead End may notice a few similarities and should find much to appreciate in AUTONOMOUS.
Director Kyle Valle deserves credit for crafting an ominous atmosphere from a concept that feels increasingly relevant in today’s world. By centering the story around AI technology that closely resembles real-world advancements, Valle creates a believable scenario that never feels far removed from reality. The film often feels as though the audience is eavesdropping on an actual couple during an actual rideshare journey, a technique that works particularly well in our increasingly voyeuristic digital culture.
Ultimately, AUTONOMOUS succeeds not only as an entertaining horror thriller but also as a thought-provoking examination of humanity’s relationship with technology. It leaves viewers with a lingering question: How much trust should we place in artificial intelligence, and should we be concerned about a future where humans become increasingly redundant?
CHECK OUT AUTONOMOUS ON SCREAMIFY
