Her

The romantic intimacy in Her is remarkable considering the two main characters never kiss, or share an embrace, or even look at one another.

The visionary film from director Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich) explores the notion that increased reliance on technology in every aspect of our lives has made simple human interaction more difficult.

The unconventional romance takes place sometime in the near future and centers on Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix), a writer whose recent divorce has left his socially withdrawn. Looking to upgrade his home computer, he buys an OS1, a state-of-the-art operating system that tailors its artificial intelligence to the individual psyche of its owner.

In Theodore’s case, his OS1 features a sultry female voice known as Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johansson), who not only assists with his daily routine but also provides an emotional sounding board that Theodore finds alluring. As he falls in love with the voice, his emotions become more conflicted.

The concept might seem simple, but the elaborately constructed science-fiction world in which is takes place (one that apparently features an abundance of high-waisted slacks and throwback mustaches) is not. The way in which the film theorizes about dwindling personal interaction on a daily basis is plausible — and offers a cautionary tale of sorts.

Take Theodore, for example. He’s a nerd of the future, working a job that computerizes simple letter writing among friends and relatives. But on a personal level, he’s more than just a simple loner who needs someone to talk to. Samantha probes his vulnerability and forces him to confront various emotional hurdles.

Phoenix brings depth and sympathy to a role that requires him to spend much of the time acting by himself. The supporting cast also includes Amy Adams, Chris Pratt and Rooney Mara.

Few moviegoers would have pegged Jonze as a romantic based on his earlier work, but this film makes a powerful statement about physical beauty and the laws of attraction. His script features some sharp and perceptive dialogue and ensures that the premise is more than just a gimmick.

For those who buy in, Her has a poignant and offbeat charm that helps to smooth out some of its rough edges. And like any good relationship, it has moments of humor and sadness without becoming excessively goofy or depressing.

Rated R, 126 minutes.