Inventor David Hanson is grappling with a lot. As the lead figure in perfecting and developing “Sophia” - the most realistic humanoid robot in the world - he persistently juggles his days between fielding questions & inquiries from investors and troubleshooting issues with his team. With his manic energy, Hanson travels to conferences and forums speaking in support of “Sophia” as a compassionate and socially-useful A.I., but his infectious ambition and optimism can only go so far. As David makes his case to shareholders, he also tries to be present for his wife, his son and his ailing mother - all while feeling the stark pressure of how others view “Sophia’s” capitalistic opportunities.

Directors Jon Kasbe (When Lambs Become Lions, Tribeca 2018) and Crystal Moselle (The Wolfpack, Tribeca 2015) craft an impressive character portrait not just of Hanson but of “Sophia” as well - her A.I. self gaining more personality and awareness as the narrative progresses. The editing and pacing at work here is swift and masterfully deliberate, and each verite scene is constructed and presented with great zeal and energy. With Sophia, Kasbe & Moselle deliver inspiring, kinetic and soulful storytelling: an uplifting film about what it means to be & feel human as well as a probing character study of a self-ascribed outcast pursuing a sense of connectedness.--Jose Rodriguez

Jon Kasbe and Crystal Moselle